What were you doing before the MSc?
Prior to the MSc, I studied a BA in Economics at Strathclyde. Inspired by the environmental economics class I took with Dr Scott McGrane, I approached Dr Nikos Danias, the programme director, who explained to me the details of the course.
I was also working part-time (where I am now full-time) at Intelligent Growth Solutions, a vertical farming start-up from Edinburgh. The crossover the university course had with my work was incredible and I learned a lot to apply in my day-to-day work. There was a lot of flexibility for where I focused my essay writing. For example, for classes in energy economics I could focus my submissions on agricultural technology and the associated economics and policies.
What made you take the programme? Why did you choose Strathclyde?
I choose Strathclyde because the course is unique in Scotland and I couldn't see others like it. On top of that, I was straight off the back of an amazing 4 years as an undergraduate at Strathclyde, and I had built up a great relationship with some of the lecturers. Perhaps most importantly I was lucky enough to have received a scholarship from the University which in turn made this course affordable for me.
What has been your experience of the classes?
The focus on presenting I have found very useful to apply in my workplace. Having the opportunity to constantly present helped me build this skill set. The focus on data analysis I also found very useful and I could apply this in my work. Moreover, the focus on environmental issues beyond looking at the basic economics was very useful. The Energy Economics class looks at wider economics, allowing you to grasp the subject as a whole and not just a niche section.
Some of the lecturers’ styles were great. One example would be Professor Matt Hannon who focused on hosting discussions during his lectures, as opposed to simply reading slides off a screen. Choosing elective classes was also great. I chose Developmental Economics which I thoroughly enjoyed.
How does the course fit into your longer aspirations for study/career in the future?
The course very much aligned with my future career plans. Prior to the course I knew I enjoyed energy economics and it would be useful in my work at IGS, I had no idea how far that would go though. I think I picked this course at a great time as well with everything going on in the world. You gain a strong understanding of the world’s macroeconomic landscape and you understand some of the potential solutions to the worlds energy crisis.
Is there anything you would especially recommend about the course/classes?
The lecturers were terrific, and a wide range of economic topics were covered.
What is it like to be a student at Strathclyde and in the city of Glasgow?
The University of Strathclyde is an amazing institution in the best city in the world. The University’s central location is extremely handy for having a social life off campus and travelling the rest of Scotland and the UK. The University also encourages a great work-life balance with a great students union. The support for career opportunities is fantastic.
What advice would you give to prospective students?
I would definitely recommend this course if you have an interest in the ongoing of the world today and would like a career in a climate-change-associated role. I also believe that after studying this course you would have the business acumen to work in a modern, mission-led organisation tackling climate change, having the ability to make a real impact on the world through your job.
