Sarah Elizabeth Hill - Zoology with Animal Behaviour MZool Graduate
Degree: Zoology with Animal Behaviour MZool
Now works as: Technical Sales Specialist
Why did you choose to study at Bangor?
I originally chose to study at Bangor as I was aware they offered a Zoology with Animal Behaviour course. I always wanted to study zoology but it intrigued me that I could specialise it further with the animal behaviour aspect, most other Universities just advertised the standard Zoology course! However, after visiting the University on an Open Day I was certain Bangor was the place for me.
Did you come to an Open Day?
I came to an Open Day a year before applying to study at Bangor and it was definitely a wise choice. I remember driving down the A55 coastal road towards Bangor with the sea on one side and the mountains on the other thinking what a beautiful place it was, luckily there wasn’t a cloud in the sky which helped the day feel more welcoming. The Open Day was a success and went very smoothly, it affirmed that this University was where I wanted to spend the next four years of my life studying.
Tell us about your course
The course, Zoology with Animal Behaviour, is very varied and allowed us to explore many different topics and learn a variety of new skills. I especially liked the ability and freedom to choose a number of modules each year to study along with the compulsory modules to suit our own interests. The school has great lecturers who were all very welcoming and enthusiastic about their teaching areas which I was very fortunate to learn from.
What was the best thing about your course?
There are a couple of aspects of my course that come to mind. Firstly, the field trip to South Africa, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity that I will never forget! A group of us travelled to Kruger National Park to gather data on the species occupancy and abundance. I was then given the opportunity to use the data I had collected for my 3rd year dissertation.
Secondly, and which I believe is my biggest achievement and highlight at University, is being given the chance to publish my Master’s thesis in the Journal of Biogeography. This is something I never expected to accomplish so soon, and to accomplish it during my Master’s year has given me the drive and determination to pursue a career in research. My supervisor, Isabelle Winder, was extremely supportive and always willing to help whenever I needed it.
What did you do in your spare time?
During my free time at Bangor I enjoyed exploring the nearby towns and environment, from the different beaches and coastal areas to the mountains and woodlands. As a keen photographer, there is probably no University in this country that could match Bangor when it relates to scenery right on your doorstep. As well as this during the first couple of years of my time at University I was part of the 麻豆传媒高清版 Archery Club. This was a great way to meet new people and find friends.
What did you do after graduation and what is your current job?
Since graduating with my masters degree I have been on the search for a PhD.