Gareth Jenkins BSc Geology, 2000

Coastal Sedimentologist at the British Geological Survey

After struggling to settle in my first year at another university, I managed to successfully transfer straight into the second year of the BSc (Hons) Geology course at the University of Southampton. I was instantly encouraged by the higher work ethic and enthusiasm of the staff, which was also reflected in my new fellow students. I was also impressed with the modern facilities offered at the National Oceanography Centre Southampton, which added to the quality of the course.

I am confident that was it not for my time at Southampton, I would not have had the knowledge and enthusiasm that had enabled me to pursue a career in geology.

Field trips to North Yorkshire, south east Spain, south west England and Anglesey, coupled with field days along the south coast of England, provided me with excellent practical field knowledge. My dissertation gave me the unique opportunity to undertake a search for the first known flowering plant, studying Cretaceous sediments on which dinosaurs once walked. The study exposed me to the rigours of a research project and, through the guidance and encouragement of my supervisor, enabled me to develop my report writing skills to a very high standard.

Having graduated from Southampton in 2000 with a very satisfying upper second class degree, I then went on to study for an MSc in Environmental Sedimentology and Geomorphology, building on the sound background provided to me by Southampton. On completion of the MSc, I was thrilled to successfully apply for a job with the British Geological Survey as a Coastal Sedimentologist. I now work on several projects involving the coastal zone around the UK, and also undertook a commissioned project in north-west Germany, having only been at the BGS for five months.

I am confident that was it not for my time at Southampton, I would not have had the knowledge and enthusiasm that had enabled me to pursue a career in geology.