Rachel Smedley is delighted to be back at Aberystwyth University where she studied for her degree course – this time she’s returning as a postgraduate student studying MRes Quarternary Environmental Change. She is extremely excited about her future research, and grateful that with the help of the £500 bursary from Postgrad Solutions she will be able to focus more on her studies rather than worrying about finances.
‘Winning the bursary was a complete surprise for me at first, but now I am settling into the fact that it has taken some of the burden of financial support off myself,' explains Rachel. 'I think that it will help me to concentrate on my studies more throughout the year, and I am extremely appreciative that the scheme chose me! It is good to know that there are organisations out there committed to supporting struggling postgraduate students in such poor economical times – thank you!’
Rachel originally chose Aberystwyth as an undergraduate because she was drawn to its coastal location and compact town life. The fantastic welcome lecture she received on the open day informing her about all of the opportunities available cemented the university’s appeal for her. Now she’s returning to this tranquil spot in Wales that she loves. ‘Aberystwyth is such a unique place to study, not only is it excellent to be part of the department, but the surrounding scenery and countryside offers so many great views and picture perfect sunsets!’
Now that she has settled back into student life, Rachel is enjoying reacquainting herself with some familiar faces and places. ‘Although I knew a few people from my department before beginning my course this week, it was great to meet my fellow students in a social setting hosted by our department. It is comforting to know I am surrounded by many friendly and supportive students. I have also enjoyed settling back into Aberystwyth life and walking my favourite coastal route towards the sea cliffs, taking in the view out across the town and surrounding hills.’
Rachel has opted to study Quarternary Environmental Change, which is particularly relevant in these times of global warming, as it involves studying the Earth’s climate over the last two million years to try and predict future climate patterns. It also tries to work out how man has interacted with his environment throughout history, and what impact this may have had. This in turn could help provide solutions to modern day environmental issues – a topic very much in the news these days. Rachel says, ‘I chose this course to help prepare myself for a potential PhD project in the future and hopefully a career focused upon research. I find discovering the past environmental and climatic changes throughout the Quaternary time period an extremely interesting challenge. This kind of research is also completely relevant to current global concerns as it can contribute towards understanding climate change of modern times.’
Although her lectures have barely started, Rachel has already begun planning her 30,000 word research project, enjoying stimulating discussions with the departmental staff. She has an exciting year of research ahead of her.
