I Got Hired: Joel

Posted on: 25 November 2025 by Richard Finch in Class of 2024

Joel is a Class of 2024 Marine Biology with Oceanography graduate who now works at Associated British Ports - UKD as an Assistant Hydrographic Surveyor.

How did you hear about your role?

When I Graduated was keen to get started in the Marine industry and have a good career. I looked around on LinkedIn/indeed for any jobs I could find in that industry.

How did you get where you are now?

I had to go down to Cardiff for my interview even though I am based in Garston and I found that being sincere was the best thing for me. The people hiring me found me to be a likeable and that I would fit in well with the team.

Your favourite experience as part of your current role?

Surveying! We get to go out on our boats all over the country and get to see all sorts of marine life whilst we work. I also get to take part in survey work for floating offshore wind farms, which is what I did my dissertation on!

The most challenging part of your graduate journey?

Finding the job after university. I found it really hard to land a role in the career I wanted. I even ended up falling for a few scams on indeed. But after a few months of applying for everything in the marine industry I could find I landed the role I have now.

What's your #1 piece of advice for future grads?

Don’t be afraid to apply for roles outside of what you are qualified for. The role I have now was marketed to me as needing someone with 2 years of survey experience, which I of course didn’t have – however, once they met me they were very happy.

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