I chose to study at the University of Wolverhampton simply because it had the only course in the country which was relevant to my goals at the time, and the course was an absolute door-opener. Entering into this course, I’m sure the end-goal for most people is to join the fire and rescue service. However, this course prepares you for so much more. There are modules taught about a wide variety of subject matters such as the environment, engineering, social policy, leadership, emergency planning. There's something that everyone will enjoy, including all starting points for your career, all taught by supportive subject-matter experts. Looking for opportunities after finishing my degree, I was surprised at the amount of possibilities I had relevant experience towards. This course sets you up to excel. Being constantly motivated and fostered by both the staff and other students also sets this course apart. A welcoming atmosphere always surrounds the lectures, with students being encouraged to take part. Even though we have each gone our own way, I’m still in contact with many of my fellow alumni till this day. I could not recommend this path more to anyone. For me, the University of Wolverhampton experience was so much more than just study – it really allowed me to come out of my shell and focus on things that I truly enjoyed and was passionate about. This includes joining societies and taking part in volunteering opportunities, as well.

My degree was somewhat related to the work I currently do; however, I think that where the value of something like this truly shines is how many different options are open for you at the end of the degree. Most important for me is the freedom I had to really develop myself and grow, and that will be worth more than anything else.

My role involves working on a variety of projects to create bespoke Fire Safety Strategies. These are designed to protect people, their property, and the environment from fire. A typical day involves liaising with my colleagues, architects and clients to design safe buildings and create safe environments.

At Hydrock we are passionate about three things: creating high-performing buildings and infrastructure; unlocking complex sites; and being a great place to work. That really comes across in the day-to-day, and the atmosphere when you come into work can make a huge difference to your morale. A more involved and enjoyable environment really makes you more motivated to create good work. I've been able to work on nationally significant projects, such as South Bank, Leeds; Weldale Street, Reading: As well as South Staffordshire Council Offices (Becoming Codsall Community Hub); and Musgrove Park Hospital, Taunton; is great for my development. I am motivated by knowing that my work now could save lives. The most challenging aspects of my job, for me personally, are the engineering aspects. I did not come from an engineering background, and previously had a very slim amount of experience and knowledge about this industry. Whilst I had some knowledge about fire, applying this to the built environment through equations and analyses was difficult. It has been quite a big change and challenge for me, and I struggled immensely when I first took up my position - but I am learning lots, very quickly, and am lucky to be supported by a great team throughout my office in Manchester, and the company nationally.

Get involved! Put your hand up for things! Volunteer! Getting stuck in now when you have time and the opportunities before you is invaluable. Find a society that you enjoy! If not, do something in the community that you love! Grow and flourish.