Kelly Ann Dempsey
Working in an ecology related field and using real project examples in discussions and assignments helped Kelly Ann Dempsey make the most of her online MSc in Biodiversity, Wildlife & Ecosystem Health.
| Name |
Kelly Ann Dempsey |
| Degree |
MSc Biodiversity, Wildlife & Ecosystem Health (Online Learning) |
| Year of Graduation | 2014 |
Your time at the University
I wanted to gain further ecological qualifications and as I worked full time, the distance learning MSc in Biodiversity, Wildlife & Ecosystem Health course appealed greatly. The University of Edinburgh has a first class reputation and the appealing course outline cemented the decision that this was the course for me.
I found that I could balance my time commitment to the course with work requirements well, it helped that I already work in an ecology related field. I often discussed projects I worked on in group discussions and based assignments on work too, where this was appropriate. One of the most exciting things about the course is being able to learn from people from all over the world. It was quite a unique experience to participate in discussion fuelled by wide ranging experiences and backgrounds.
I was more than happy to manage my work load remotely; visiting campus would have been less convenient due to work commitments. A supervisor was only a phone call away during the third year dissertation process and this proved to be sufficient.
One of the most exciting things about the course is being able to learn from people from all over the world. It was quite a unique experience to participate in discussion fuelled by wide ranging experiences and backgrounds.
Your experiences since leaving the University
I still work full time for a Scottish Local Authority on biodiversity, climate change and river catchment management issues so my MSc course has been useful. I also work for a national conservation charity on an ad hoc basis and participate in species monitoring projects locally where I can.
It’s good to have a mix of policy and governance and the practical – it’s great to be outdoors and have an understanding of what you’re trying to protect and if measures work.
Alumni Wisdom
My advice would be to find a job where your heart lies if you can. The last ten years have gone past in a flash as I get to work on projects and developing policy that really make a difference to my local environment. Try to keep up a mix of skills and volunteering where possible, you’ll meet lots of interesting people, make friends and you pick some invaluable skills on the way.