Hannah Roberts

Having graduated last year with a degree in geography, I had no idea where I wanted to take it. I had hugely enjoyed my modules in GIS so I decided to pursue my interest and apply for the MSc GIS course offered here at Leeds.

It is a decision I am so pleased I made, as not only did the broad range of modules allow me expand my interest in topics I had studied previously, but I have also learnt about new topics I had not come across before. Such modules have provided me with skills that are key to working in the field of GIS . For example, demographic analysis, spatial methods and programming. Additionally, I was able to undertake a research placement with the Bradford Institute for Health Research (BIHR), which gave me an opportunity to apply these skills to a typical working environment.

Completing the research placement inspired me to continue in that area of work, and I will be beginning a PhD in partnership with the University and BIHR in October. My research will surround the effect of green space utilisation and perception on physical and mental health and well-being, and will make use of valuable skills I have learnt throughout this course.

Leeds as a city is a fantastic place to live, with a huge diversity of things to do for all kinds of people. There is an abundance of shops, restaurants, bars, museums and parks, as well as plenty of events on offer throughout the year such as sporting events, theatre productions and music concerts. Overall my experience in Leeds, both academic and extra-curricular, has been fantastic and I wouldn’t change any of it.