Megan Knapp, a second-year student in the Department of International Development studying BSC International Development (now known as BSc Global Sustainable Development) wanted to find new life experiences while studying for a degree that would allow her to make a positive difference. The range of opportunities at the University of Reading have enabled Megan to grow and become who she is today.
A course that suited her passion for development
Armed with a genuine passion for development and creating a better world for people, Megan was keen to explore the interdisciplinary nature of the School and opportunities to draw on areas of expertise from across the university.
“As the course is based in the Department of International Development within the School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, I have a great range of lectures covering various interdisciplinary areas. I have really enjoyed the range of modules and like the diverse topics they cover. Staff in the Department are so welcoming and friendly. They do incredible research and are all focused on the student experience. They make the course so exciting and engaging.”
Megan adds:
“I also appreciate the opportunity to learn from many different departments, enabling me to study subject areas such as economics, geography and politics.
I couldn’t find another course at any other university that offered me this much variety or choice, and enabled me to pursue my own likes and passions.”
Exploring the world of development
Megan has benefited from a range of opportunities embedded in the course to explore the development sector, gain experience, and discover just how valuable industry exposure is.
“The careers and development in practice teaching in the course is extremely beneficial and gave me a great head-start in thinking about future career choices and challenges. I had the opportunity to go on field trips.’
Talking about work experience, Megan shares:
“I also completed a short work experience placement with the energy advice charity ‘Act on Energy’ who help individuals and communities save energy and reduce their carbon footprint. They arranged for me to meet each team, from accountancy to communications, as well as the CEO! I benefited enormously from these one-to-ones as staff explained what their roles entailed and how they got into the organisation.
I learnt so much about the UK’s energy sector and was able to observe their work on current projects. It was eye-opening and helped me to understand the multitude of jobs within the charity sector and also sparked an interest in project management. But I also saw the importance of progressing and learning to increase my options within the workplace. It also made me realise my interest in the energy sector and in sustainability - to the extent that it actually inspired my plan to write my dissertation about it.”
Megan adds:
“I am very open minded to career options, but above all I would love to pursue a career that has a positive impact on people, whether that be within an NGO (non-governmental organisation) or working within corporate social responsibility. I’m really interested in sustainability and would like to be involved in a team where I can make a positive impact on both people and our planet.”
Student Life
Starting university is an exciting time for any student, and Reading offered Megan a new sense of freedom to explore, learn and make friends. With so many social activities, sports and volunteering opportunities, she soon submerged herself in student life.
“I like to stay busy and Reading’s campus is perfect for that, while being so close to the town centre allows for fun activities and easily getting a train to new spots. The town nightlife is lots of fun, but the best night out will always be on campus at the ‘Wednesday Union’!
I have made some incredible friends and have loved paving my own route forward - from understanding new assignments to finding my own rented accommodation and gaining my own independence. There is so much to learn beyond your studies and it’s so exciting to navigate.”
Megan adds:
“I really enjoy being a Student Ambassador at Open Days, sharing my passion for the subject and course at Reading and I’m excited to have been elected as a Senior Representative for my School this year. I worked so hard planning my manifesto, and I’m keen to ensure that all student voices are heard at university level. It will also be a great opportunity to practice my communication and time management skills.”
STAR Mentoring
Megan has also supported new students to settle in through our STAR Mentoring scheme, which has benefited her down development at the same time.
“I’ve really enjoyed being a STAR Mentor, and supporting other students as part of the scheme. The scheme has been so well organised and has taught me the importance of proper role allocation and communication in volunteering initiatives. I have gained so much confidence through this opportunity.”
Megan’s top tip as she reflects on her time at Reading so far:
“Apply for as much as you can and take every opportunity that’s sent your way, now is the time to get involved and try something new!
Throwing myself into all aspects of student life has allowed me to find how I work best and what interests me the most. It’s made me realise that the hard work you put in reflects positively on you later!”
Find out more about our BSc Global Sustainable Development course.