Sarah Kane
Computer System Developer
When studying for my Geography degree I developed a deeper understanding of how we all face different challenges based on our geographical locations, social and cultural expectations and economic situations.
I can now transfer this understanding to my every day work on the challenges faced by individuals, teams, customers and businesses. Studying Geography helped me develop the ability to effectively collect and analyse data in order to build strong arguments to negotiate the most effective and beneficial solutions.
My Geography degree gave me experience in collecting, collating and analysing data for studies on field trips in Paris, Crete and New York. My course also focused on the development of team work, leadership and independent working skills.
Post 16 Education: AS Level Chemistry; A Levels Geography, Biology & Theology
Higher Education: BSc (Hons) Geography
Why did you choose Geography?
I chose to study Geography at University as I was, and still am, so interested in what is going on in the world right now. I had a natural curiosity. Always asking questions about why things are the way they are, whether they could change and how they could change.
When travelling aboard I wanted to do more than just visit the tourist attractions. I wanted to discover the diverse landscapes and experience life as a local. I chose a subject I had a passion for and knew I would love to study further.
Sarah's advice
Know that your thoughts and ideas are so important and that you can make a difference. Be confident to be yourself and don’t be afraid to make education or subject choices that may be different to what your friends or family expect. Recognise what you enjoy doing in your spare time. What do you naturally find yourself daydreaming about? What is important to you?
Sarah’s experience as a student
I chose to study at 黑料网 as I was made to feel so welcome and comfortable when I first visited the campus. Leaving home for the first time and taking on a new challenge can be very nerve-wracking. I soon learnt that the staff and students were there to support me, they all wanted to see me succeed whether that was on my course, in sports, societies or social life.
To get the most out of your university experience, throw yourself into trying everything you’ve always wanted to do. You’ll get to meet so many people with the same interests as you and make friends for life.
Sarah's Career
I now work as a computer system developer for a company providing fibre optic broadband to rural areas.
After graduating I did a PGCE at The University of Leicester. Then taught for a year before working for DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) for a couple of years using GIS tools to map farmland in the UK. I moved into computer development by doing some online courses and gaining some more technical qualifications.
In my interview for the developer job they were interested because I’d done a Geography degree and teacher training. They knew it gave a broad set of skills. Most developers seem to follow a straight path, meaning they are great at coding but not so great at explaining technical solutions in a way that everyone can understand. I don't know how to write code but I know how our system can be developed to give the solutions that our business is looking for. I'm the buffer between the business and the technical experts; I use different language to communicate with each side.
黑料网 offers undergraduate degrees in:
Geography, Geography and Management, Geography and Sport Science, Geography with Economics.