Finding our ‘urban tribe’ and forging our futures in sustainability and environmental management

Three postgraduate students were part of the student team that helped make a recent high-profile geology conference hosted by the University of Hull such a great success. Here, Emmanuel Antwi, Augustina Illimoe and Mawuli Abalo share their experiences of the conference, their studies and why they think Hull is a well-kept secret.

How did you come to study in Hull?

Emmanuel: After completing my BSc in Civil Engineering, I was drawn to the University of Hull's MSc in Environmental Change Management and Monitoring due to its strong reputation for environmental research and its comprehensive curriculum that aligns with my interest in sustainability and engineering. The programme's focus on practical skills and its interdisciplinary approach to environmental challenges resonated with my career goals. Coming from Ghana, I was also attracted to the opportunity to study in the UK, which offers a diverse academic environment and exposure to global perspectives on environmental management.

Augustina: My early work in flood resilience in Edo State, Nigeria led a senior colleague and his wife to fully sponsor my studies in the UK, after my father died in an accident 15 years ago. I feel extremely grateful/blessed for their support. My passion for flood adaptation and mitigation led me to further my studies in MSc Flood Risk Management at the University of Hull. Prior to my studies in Hull, I had earned a degree in Accountancy from Auchi Polytechnic in 2013 and a postgraduate diploma in Public Administration from the University of Benin in 2018. My career began in banking in 2010, but in 2017, I joined the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP), advancing to Substantive Monitoring and Evaluation Officer in 2018, with a focus on building community resilience to flooding in Edo State, Nigeria.

Mawuli: Hull is the place where I had the opportunity to research my interest in plastic waste management, after enduring a period of uncertainty following my master's degree at the University of Oxford. But the journey was serendipitous. I first learned about the sustainability research, particularly waste management, being carried out by academics and PGRs at the (now) School of Environmental Sciences, Hull, after a conversation with my academic mentor. Visiting their website, I wondered why I was only now hearing about Hull: the research profile of the academics suited my research interest, and their vast experiences resonated with the prospective supervision I hoped to receive in a PhD journey. I immediately knew that Hull is the place for me to pursue a PhD in Human Geography. Thankfully, the White Rose Doctoral Scholarship made it a reality.

You were part of the student team at the Extractive Industry Geology conference hosted by the University recently. Please tell us about your experience:

Emmanuel: I was thrilled to be nominated for the student team for the 23rd Extractive Industry Geology Conference which took place at the University this month. Sitting at the front desk, greeting participants, and issuing souvenirs was an honour. Participating in their presentations and engaging with industry leaders in geology, a field closely aligned with my studies, was incredibly rewarding. Building strong relationships by chatting with these professionals was a highlight. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the conference and the invaluable insights it provided.

Augustina: I am passionate about flood risk communication, building community resilience to flooding and demonstrating this through various activities, including volunteering. My eagerness to learn and share knowledge drives my involvement in community-advancing projects. This motivation led me to volunteer at the EIG 2024 Conference as part of the student team, where I provided guidance, support, and ensured efficient distribution of conference materials. This experience offered firsthand insights into current and future practices in climate change and latest innovations, as well as networking opportunities with UK geological industry professionals. Throughout, I demonstrated responsibility, consistency, and a strong desire for knowledge, which enhanced my analytical and interpersonal skills.

Mawuli: In addition to the extensive networking opportunities, delightful dinners, and tourist attractions, the EIG conference sparked new ideas and provided me with a blend of academic and industry-rich presentations from various speakers, including early career geologists. It was inspiring listening to these early career geologists talk about their work and experience. I started picturing myself doing something similar in my field. What I enjoyed most about the conference were the delegates. The welcoming atmosphere they fostered for us to engage in one-on-one conversations helped me to rethink how to effectively present myself to potential employers in any industry.

Some people describe the University as a well-kept secret. Do you agree?

Emmanuel: The University of Hull is often described as a well-kept secret, and I agree. The University is nestled in an attractive setting, it boasts a rich history and a vibrant community. Despite its modest size, the University offers a wide range of high-quality programmes and has a strong research focus. The campus is welcoming, with modern facilities and a supportive environment that fosters academic excellence and personal growth. Its location, away from the bustle of larger cities, allows students to immerse themselves in their studies while enjoying a close-knit community feel.

Augustine: The University of Hull is indeed a well-kept secret, excelling in research and world-class faculty, yet lacking the global recognition it deserves. It leads in Flood Risk and Environmental Management, with significant contributions to UK flood management policy. The University’s flood resilience research, the Living with Water (LWW) partnership, and the City Water Resilience Approach (CWRA) have shaped national strategies. Notably, its work influenced the 2007 Pitt Review (led by Prof Tom Coulthard) and has been adopted by the Environment Agency and the 2020 Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Strategies for England, strengthening community resilience to flooding.

Mawuli: Some people say Hull is a well-kept secret and I agree. The calm and welcoming environment in Hull provides an enabling environment for PGRs to establish meaningful relationships. It is even more telling for PGRs with family. You can relax and enjoy all the beautiful sceneries the city has on offer: for me the city centre, the deep, old town, Fruit Market, ongoing urban regeneration projects, Hull Marina, including the growing cosmopolitan population. For me, some of the meaningful relationships I’ve made in the UK were made in Hull. The city has something unique to always offer.

What have you enjoyed about your studies?

Emmanuel: I've had an amazing experience at the University of Hull. The campus is stunning, with the ideal balance of modern and ancient building styles. The lecturers are approachable and helpful, and the academic programmes are demanding but interesting. It's simple to make friends and feel at home in the diverse and welcoming student body. Hull's location also provides easy access to cultural and recreational events, all in a peaceful environment that is ideal for learning. All things considered, my time at the University of Hull has been rewarding and enriching.

Augustina: The Energy and Environment Institute at the University of Hull has significantly impacted my life through its comprehensive Flood Risk Management programme. The diverse course modules, including Managing Flood Incidents, Modelling Flood Events, Flood Adaptation and Mitigation, Flood Impacts: Living with Floods and Flood Resilience: Living with Water, have enhanced my capacity to build community flood resilience. These moments, brought out the best in me. Most especially, field visits to key sites such as The Deep, Yorkshire and Humber Drainage Board AEEFAS, COPFAS, WADFAS, Dalby Forest, Humber Fire and Rescue Service, York Flood Alleviation Scheme, the EA Incident room and the Humber Estuary provided invaluable practical insights. These experiences, particularly the Orchard Park visits, have sharpened my skills and deepened my understanding of flood management strategies.

Mawuli: Three important things for me are my supervisory team, the PGR community, and the numerous opportunities Hull offers for students to engage in student life. Being a postgraduate student can sometimes feel lonely. Having a supportive and enriching urban tribe where meaningful relationships can be established is very important. Being involved in student life in various roles such as course representative, faculty representative, student union member, university advertiser, invigilator, seminar and conference participant, and PGR support group member becomes a lifeline. It makes you feel like a part of a community where your ideas are welcomed and valued.