I Got Hired: Katy

Posted on: 12 September 2025 by Richard Finch in Class of 2024

Katy Leigh is a Class of 2024 BSc Chemistry graduate who now works as a Graduate Geoenvironmental Consultant at Arcadis.

How did you hear about your role?

I attended some career talks at university and was introduced to the concept of ‘grad schemes’. I then went home and did some research into different environmental companies. I had a personal checklist and knew that I wanted to work for a company whose priorities are to create an inclusive environment, actively be involved in the betterment of communities, and play a role in the battle against climate change. In doing this, I found Arcadis as the second best environmental consultancy globally. I spent a few hours looking through their website, LinkedIn, and online news articles, and decided this was the right fit for me.

How did you get to where you are now?

Key experience that helped with recruitment:

• Work Experience - I have been working since a young age (11) and have held multiple jobs for 2-4 years at a time. This showed commitment and loyalty to my job, as well as a drive to succeed.
• Studying Abroad - with help from the University of Liverpool, I completed a two-month placement at the University of Kathmandu, Nepal. I picked a project relevant to my interest in environmental chemistry and water contamination (which I now report on daily). I achieved a first in this, and was able to work it into my interview (they loved this!).
• Practiced for my interview - I did extensive research into Arcadis, rehearsed some commonly asked questions, and selected my key experiences to bring into the mix. The year I applied had 22,000+ applicants, and only 100 spaces – knowing things about the company you want to work for is key to standing out.
• Dissertation - I picked another area of interest, which was again water contamination but with a twist of 3D printing and coding, showing versatility and the ability to pick up new skills quickly and to a high standard.

I believe all of these experiences helped with my recruitment, and picking studying opportunities, modules, and a dissertation that genuinely interested me was crucial. The more you enjoy what you do, the better you will succeed!

Your favourite experience as part of your current role?

Since starting my role I have been heavily involved in monitoring and reporting for PFAS contaminated water. This is an area of increasing interest, and is largely chemistry based. I am one of very few chemists in the UK team, meaning I still get to challenge my own knowledge and share it to the wider team. In this area I have also had the opportunity to carry out research, suggest new models using various analytical techniques, and present my findings to senior members.

The most challenging part of your graduate journey?

When I began studying Chemistry at university, I wanted to drop out within two months – I made a plan and everything! I decided to give it some more time before deciding, and I am so glad I did!

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

Nobody has an identical experience so it’s ok if yours seems to go off track. There are multiple journeys needed to get a degree, not just one!

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