Why did you apply to be involved in Black Sea MAP?

I applied to be involved in Black Sea MAP because I have a strong interest in science and scientific research, particularly the practical side of science. I wanted to learn and discover more about how and what the project involved, the type of work they were doing and how a large-scale project worked. I also had an interest in the sea, sailing and travelling as well as history. I also thought that it would be an incredible opportunity to meet new like-minded people and specialists in different fields of STEM.

What did your role involve as a Black Sea MAP STEM Scholar?

As a Black Sea MAP STEM Scholar, I travelled to Bulgaria and was part of a team of other scholars who got to experience how a large scale research boat worked. I got to work alongside scientists and engineers and helped to collect data from the sea bed of the Black Sea in Bulgaria. Another part of my role was to help educate other people about careers in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) and linked this to the roles of many of the people that worked on the project.

What skills did you use or improve?

The most important skills I used as a Black Sea MAP STEM Scholar were communication and team work. These were always needed, from being able to listen and understand the new information being learned, to interviewing and talking to people about their careers and the work they do as part of the project. I had to work with many different people to collect the data I needed, as well as with my group to create our careers resources. The boat ran smoothly because of good team work throughout the different departments.

What was a highlight for you of Black Sea MAP?

A highlight for me as a Black Sea MAP STEM Scholar was staying up late at night to witness a Byzantine shipwreck being discovered in perfect condition and watch and feel the excitement from the experts and everyone in the room.

What subjects did you study at school?

I studied Maths, Physics and Biology at A level and Chemistry at AS. I also took some music exams, passing my grade 8 alto saxophone and grade 7 flute.

What are you doing now/hope to do next?

I have recently been accepted into the University of the West of England in Bristol to study children’s nursing and in the future hope to travel the world working as a nurse.

What advice would you give a younger student?

Always do something that you enjoy. Talk to as many different people as possible and take every opportunity that comes your way because you never know what may influence you career choices.