Daniel Collins – Analyst, Carbon Smart
I graduated from the School of Agriculture, Policy and Development with an MSc Climate Change and Development in 2017, and I am now working for a sustainability firm called Carbon Smart.
Carbon Smart's mission is to make sustainability work for everyone. They have supported over a thousand organisations to achieve their unique business objectives by setting and achieving their environmental and social performance. We offer tailored sustainability solutions for all types of businesses, whether it's a global corporation or a small business.
I am currently an Analyst within the Energy and Renewables Team, helping to find clear, practical sustainability strategies that contribute to a better world. My main responsibilities include coordinating data collection and analysis for energy audits and carbon footprints, providing on and off site environmental support to businesses, and creating marketing materials, articles and generating engaging case studies to highlight the work we do.
Having the chance to work at the centre of climate change and sustainable development challenges is a hugely rewarding experience. The sustainability sector is fast evolving although, it's a relatively new field therefore, being able to tailor my studies to address knowledge gaps and become a member of the sustainability professionals community is something I could not have done without the help of staff at Reading.
I chose Reading because I wanted to experience quality teaching and learning in a diverse, dynamic university with a rich history. The programme provided great flexibility in terms of the study choices I could make, allowing me to tailor the degree to my interests. I felt that a degree at Reading would allow me to take control of my own learning so that I could follow my interests, and it did not disappoint.
The Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture, and Economics (GIIDAE) impressed me with its diversity of student base, allowing me to learn alongside students from all over the world, which was a once in a lifetime opportunity. This enabled me to see topics from a number of different angles and experiences.
I really enjoyed every aspect of my life in Reading, both in academic and extra-curricular spheres. I was able to strike a great balance between my work and free time, which afforded me great experiences and the chance to meet new people.
Since leaving Reading I have been fortunate enough to get a job in my desired field of work, my programme gave my career the kick start it needed and the experience will certainly stand with me for years to come.