Elizabeth Mae Smith

Studying at Edge Hill University equipped me with the essential academic and writing skills that laid a strong foundation for my postgraduate studies at the University of Leeds. The comprehensive curriculum covered key areas of geology and physical geography, aligning closely with industry standards and expectations. The guidance and encouragement I received from lecturers and tutors empowered me to pursue summer work placements with local consultancy firms, which proved instrumental in securing early career opportunities and shaping my professional journey.

My favourite thing about studying at Edge Hill was that the lecturers and tutors were very approachable and supportive. The seminars felt very personal and so made the studying journey very easy. The inclusive field trips were also very fun!

I went into university with a very narrow outlook on possible careers, I have ended up with a job in an industry I never fully understood until I attended university. Edge Hill supported me to take any opportunity to gain work experience.

I was inspired to embark on my current career when a chance opportunity to gain work experience with a local geotechnical consultancy sparked my passion for geotechnical engineering. I found the dynamic blend of fieldwork, conducting ground investigations for major housing development, and office-based analysis deeply rewarding. Applying the skills I had developed during my undergraduate studies to calculate foundation requirements for varying ground conditions gave me a real sense of purpose and direction.

This experience not only helped me secure partial funding for my master’s degree in Engineering Geology at Leeds, but also led to a part-time role with the consultancy during my postgraduate studies. During my master’s, I expanded my understanding of the water industry and explored the critical role geotechnical engineers play in reservoir engineering and infrastructure safety. Motivated by this experience, I applied for a competitive graduate position, successfully standing out among over 1,000 applicants.

My current role offers incredible variety and impact. One day, I’m preparing desk studies for a proposed storage tunnel designed to hold millions of litres of wastewater—an essential project aimed at protecting our rivers from pollution. The next, I’m calculating piled foundations for a new water treatment facility, applying engineering principles to ensure long-term stability. On other days, I find myself walking through the stunning landscapes of the Lake District, inspecting reservoir tunnels and conducting slope stability analyses on embankments to safeguard our vital historic Victorian infrastructure. It’s a truly rewarding job that blends technical challenge with environmental stewardship.

You won’t find a better Geography/Geology department/family! The facilities are state-of-the-art and the material that is taught sets you up perfectly for postgraduate jobs.