Cecilia Chaine has benefited from undertaking the University’s MSc Waste & Resource Management, recently landing the post of KTP Associate in a UWS/Restructa Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP).
Cecilia, 35, who is originally from Uruguay and graduated with Distinction in November 2020, was keen to undertake a postgraduate degree at UWS due to its student-centred approach.
She said: “When I looked for postgraduate options relating to waste and resource management the University of the West Scotland was one of my top choices. The course balanced perfectly theoretical knowledge and practical application, which is really important in the field.
“UWS offered me a high achiever scholarship award back in 2017 and renewed it in 2019 when I was finally able to pursue this invaluable opportunity. This highlights that foreign students are valued and supported at UWS.
“Since 2013 I have been working within different areas of waste management. In doing so I had seen and learned there is an urgent need to develop more innovative and sustainable waste management options. The University’s Waste and Resource Management course addresses this issue.
“Studying during a global pandemic is far from ideal, however UWS was up to the challenge from day one! Writing a dissertation in lockdown is something one does not plan to do. Nevertheless, my tutors where always available to answer any questions I had and make sure I had all the support I needed.
“The Programme Leader also played a very important role for me and my classmates as he made sure we kept in touch and was attentive to our mental health and wellbeing which was a great challenge for us all during this unusual time. The support of the university’s staff was simply invaluable.”
When a KTP Associate post in the field of environmental science was advertised at the start of 2021 Cecilia was keen to try and secure the position and return to UWS.
A KTP is a three-way partnership between a business, an academic institution and a graduate. The academic institution employs the recently-qualified graduate who works at the company. The graduate, known as the ‘associate’, brings new skills and knowledge to the business.
She said: “I was delighted when I was appointed to this KTP post. This role suits my expertise and expectations, as it is a mix of research and hands-on work in industrial processes. I can’t believe that I am a few days away from starting the journey I have been pursuing for years. Having a UWS postgraduate degree is like having a golden key as it has opened the door to an amazing future full of opportunities.
“I would advise anyone thinking of studying at UWS to go for it! At UWS you will find everything you will need in order to be successful. If you are committed, UWS enables you to achieve any professional goal you set your mind to.”
The University’s MSc Waste and Resource Management prepares students for a career in the growing environmental and resource management sector, where there is increasing global demand for skilled graduates.
The global market in environmental goods and services is currently worth about £3 trillion.
By undertaking this course students develop core skills in the management of resources, coupled with an understanding of technologies that enhance the sustainable use of natural resources and minimise the environmental impact of economic activities, exploiting value from industrial process by-products and waste materials.
Find out more about the University’s MSc Waste & Resource Management.
Last updated: 01/02/2024