Charlotte's UWTSD Experience
Name: Charlotte Malpass
Course: BSc Environment, Sustainability and Climate Change
Hometown: Gloucester
Charlottes's BSc Environment, Sustainability and Climate Change Experience
What is your favourite thing about Swansea campus?
My favourite thing about the Swansea campus was how modern, open and welcoming it felt. There were plenty of comfortable study spaces, and I spent a lot of time in the library working on assignments while enjoying the fantastic views across Swansea Bay. The campus had a friendly atmosphere and was easy to navigate. The smaller size also meant I regularly saw tutors and classmates around campus, helping me feel connected and supported throughout my studies.
Why did you choose UWTSD?
I originally started studying Human Geography at another university but found the large lecture halls and limited access to support difficult. After deciding it wasn’t the right fit, I attended an open day at UWTSD and immediately felt welcomed. A tutor took the time to discuss the course, modules and application process, which put me at ease and gave me confidence in my decision. UWTSD also allowed me to transfer directly into the second year using credits from my previous studies. The supportive environment, smaller class sizes and personal approach made it clear that UWTSD was the right choice for me.
Current Career and Future Goals
I am currently working for my local council in Revenues, where I use many of the skills I developed during my degree, including research, problem solving, communication and reading legislation. My studies helped me build confidence in managing workloads, meeting deadlines and communication. UWTSD’s Careers Service was also incredibly helpful, providing interview practice and careers support that helped me build confidence in my abilities and prepare for job applications. The support continued after graduation, which I found invaluable when starting my career. In the future, I hope to progress into a role in Environmental Health within the council, where I can combine my interest in sustainability and environmental protection while making a positive difference to local communities..
What do you enjoy outside your studies?
Outside of my studies, I enjoyed hiking, baking and spending time with friends. Swansea was the perfect place for this, with easy access to the beautiful Gower coastline and the Brecon Beacons, where I spent many weekends exploring walking trails. I also enjoyed Swansea’s social scene and meeting up with friends for food and cocktails. Having a good balance between studying and enjoying the local area really enhanced my university experience and helped me make the most of my time there.
What is your favourite thing about BSc Environment, Sustainability and Climate Change?
One of my favourite aspects of the course was the variety of modules and the opportunities to complete fieldwork and lab work. The Environmental legislation and circular economy topic was particularly enjoyable, and I especially enjoyed writing an assignment on the Great Smog of London and applying the circular economy principles to the fashion industry. The field trips were also a highlight, providing valuable practical experience. My favourite visit was to the Cardiff energy recovery facility, where it was fascinating to see how the facility operated and contributed to waste management.
Would you recommend UWTSD and why?
I would highly recommend UWTSD. The smaller class sizes allowed me to build strong relationships with tutors and classmates, which made a huge difference to my confidence and academic success. The support from tutors was outstanding; they were approachable, always willing to help and genuinely cared about students. Assignments were clearly explained and the feedback was detailed, constructive and helped me continually improve.
Clearing Experience
I transferred to UWTSD through Clearing after completing my first year of Human Geography at another university. The process was straightforward and stress free, with excellent communication throughout. UWTSD recognised the credits I had already completed and allowed me to join the second year, making the transition seamless. Before starting, I attended the induction week where I met tutors and fellow students, took part in team building activities and completed some fieldwork. From the beginning, I felt welcomed and supported. Looking back, transferring to UWTSD was one of the best decisions I made and had a hugely positive impact on my university experience.
