Laura Dunkerley

Laura, from Fife, studied for an MA in Geography and graduated in 2003.

Why did you choose to study at Dundee University?

After visiting many other institutions, I decided to go to Dundee University as I really liked the size of the city, the compact campus and its location.

What have you done since graduation?

Since graduation, I have always been in employment. I began my career at Perth and Kinross Council in the Planning department utilising the skills in mapping software that I had learnt during my degree course. I worked there for one year before being accepted to work as an Intelligence Analyst at Tayside Police, working within the CID on major investigations and crime patterns.

How has your degree helped you in the 'real world'?

The MA in Geography provided me with many skills that have been easily transferred to employment. I have utilised practical skills such as data handling and analysis and training in Geographic Information Systems (mapping software). The fieldwork elements of the course, the group projects and presentations increased my confidence levels and taught me how to work as part of a team.

What was the most enjoyable thing about your degree and why?

The many different organised field trips were brilliant. Seeing and examining the things you were learning about, rather than reading about them in textbooks or journals, gave you a better knowledge and understanding and this really helped when writing coursework and doing exams. The field trips were very sociable and the class became good friends which made it very easy when working on group projects.

Do you have any advice for potential new students?

Try to get involved in as many things as possible, such as unions, sports clubs and other groups. Your time at university goes too quickly so enjoy every aspect of it. The people you meet during your time here will become lifelong friends.