Progress to Postgrad: Emma

Posted on: 18 September 2025 by Richard Finch in Class of 2024

Emma Diprose graduated in 2024 with a BSc in Environmental Science and is now starting an MSc in Global Conservation Science at the University of Leeds.

How did you hear about your course?

After graduating I worked as a Geoenvironmental Engineer at Johnson Poole & Bloomer. I applied for my job on Indeed before I graduated and started the day after my graduation ceremony. After a year of learning and gaining further knowledge that I am very grateful for - I decided to continue education and applied for a master's programme at the University of Leeds to further specialise.

How did you get to where you are now?

I applied early for jobs and after many, many rejections and lack of responses, I was offered a position at an engineering consultancy. I believe my degree relevance in the field and practical experience contributed to my acceptance. For my master's application, I believe a year within the geoenvironmental and mineral industry was the main factor in being accepted onto the course, alongside my relevant experience during my degree.

Your favourite thing about your current course?       

The practical experience, I have been very lucky in my geoenvironmental engineer role to take on a range of projects and learn a lot outside of my degree. I now have knowledge in surveying, drilling excavations, sampling and monitoring; as well as valuable experience compiling reports on ground investigations and desk studies.

The most challenging part of your graduate journey?

Uncertainty. Feeling like I was not living up to my potential. Financial insecurity.

Could you share one tip you wish you knew before you started

Post-graduation it is about exploration, not certainty. Explore what makes you passionate and that will lead to what you want to do for the rest of your life, it's not a question for now. Remember you can't really make a wrong decision as every choice will get you where you need to be.

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