Progress to Postgrad: Luca

Posted on: 26 July 2026 by Richard Finch in Class of 2025

Luca Chipchase, a Marine Biology graduate, continued their academic journey at the University of Plymouth, where they studied for an MSc in Marine Conservation. Building on the foundations of their University of Liverpool degree, this next step reflected their commitment to developing specialist expertise and exploring opportunities within the field of marine science.

What motivated you to pursue postgraduate study, and when did you realise it was the right path for you? 

I believe it became clearer to me during my third year at the University of Liverpool, where I was introduced to themes surrounding how the marine space is used and divided. This became a big interest for me, and I knew that I would like to research it further, given how important it is, and will continue to be, to sustainably manage how our oceans are used. 

What were the biggest challenges you faced during the transition from undergraduate to postgraduate study, and how did you overcome them? 

Given that I was relocating from one side of the country to another, this was an initial challenge I faced - it was vital to put myself out there and meet new people to make myself more comfortable. 

The amount of independent research and academic study required to keep up with lecture content and assignments significantly increased, as is expected, but this demanded improved time management to ensure I didn't fall behind. 

Is there anything you are doing outside of your studies that has supported you development whilst studying?

My extracurricular activity of choice was to join the Snow Society, which gave me a break from university and allowed me to meet new people whilst participating in a sport I love. Weekly training sessions and the occasional competitions were a great way to go to new places and take my mind away from work now and then. 

If you could give future grads one piece nugget of advice, what would it be? 

Don't be afraid to ask questions or even challenge your lecturers. They are people who are experts in their fields, and you will gain so much more from your time at University if you ask questions. It can give more insight in five minutes than a lecture can in an hour. 

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