UA News
UA Alumni:Gabriele Radzeviciute
Gabriele was a Highly Commended Entrant in the Social Science: Anthropology & Cultural Studies Category in 2020.
Since she was awarded, she has completed a teaching qualification from Oxford University and a Master’s Degree in Volcanology and Geographical Hazards from Lancaster University. She is currently applying for PhD programs in the UK and abroad.
What are you doing now and what has happened since the award?
I have recently graduated with MSc Volcanology and Geological Hazards degree from Lancaster University with a distinction and applying for PhD programs in the UK and abroad.
Since the award, I finished my undergraduate degree in geography and also gained a teaching qualification with a PGCE. I was teaching for a bit and then decided to pursue my passion for geological hazards, hence completing an MSc.
During my MSc, I also completed an internship at the European Space Agency, where I was supporting the organisation and delivery of ESA Academy’s Teaching and Learning Programme training courses. This experience allowed me to bring together a few of my interests- education, STEM outreach, earth observation, together into one role.
Where do your interests lie?
I am passionate about geological hazards (volcanoes, earthquakes, landslides, etc) and their effects on communities. Advances in Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing is also something that I am interested in, especially looking at how both can be used to inform geological hazard research, forecasting and mitigation.
I am also passionate about inclusive education, outreach, science communication and citizen science, in which I am involved alongside my studies for a few years now. Throughout my undergraduate degree, I was heavily involved in social action and volunteering, since I wanted to give back to my local community and support it as much as I can. I am a big geography advocate, as I believe it is the best subject to study, as it links to our everyday life in more than one way. Thus, I love promoting geography and sharing my passion for the subject to ignite that passion in others, so they can learn about this wonderful subject, too.
In my free time, I spend a lot of time reading, especially non-fiction books about the environment, politics, society, race, equality and sustainability. I love being outdoors, thus hiking and exploring. Travelling is a big part of my past time.
Has receiving an award for your hard work helped? How?
It definitely helped me to improve my CV and was beneficial when applying for PGCE and MSc degrees. Mainly, it gave me confidence that my academic writing is of high quality and that I should be proud of it. In a way, it also helped me to get rid of my imposter syndrome and made me a valued part of academic research. It was really nice for my work to be noticed, especially since I spent long hours researching and writing it.
This award gave me motivation and drive, especially at times when I was doubting my academic abilities and writing. It also made me realise that I want to continue producing high standard academic work and progress all of that, into research and a career in academia.
What advice would you give current undergraduate students or recent graduates?
Find something that you are passionate about and build a career with it. Don’t be afraid to follow your dreams and if you are unsure of a career path, don’t be afraid to try different experiences and opportunities, because you never know when or where you will find something that you become passionate about/ interested in. I would also advise not to compare yourself with others when it comes to career and jobs after graduating, as you are your own individual and your career path, timing and experiences are all unique to you and only you.
What are your plans/dreams for the future?
My dream and ambition are to pursue a PhD in Volcanic and Geological Hazards, especially looking at how they affect local communities and wider society. I would also like to bring my interest in GIS and Remote Sensing into my PhD if possible. I want to publish my research, and also want to become a lecturer who inspires the next generation of volcanologists and geographers. I see my career in academia, as that environment challenges and stimulates me, allowing me to be constantly developing personally and professionally
Why should students submit their work?
Students should submit their work because it’s going to be judged by the international leaders in their field. Also, if you get commended or become a winner, your work is in the top of 10% of the entries in your field across the world, which is both amazing and encouraging. Also, it helps you to be noticed and definitely helps you to show off your work and skills when applying for jobs or further study after graduating. It is an excellent way to promote yourself, your work/skills and even your university.
