I really enjoyed my time at College. Academically, I always felt I was supported by class teachers and departments as a whole – the teachers were always there if I needed them, and the PLUS classes in my Upper Sixth really helped me.

I also enjoyed College outside of the classroom: I valued the independence I was given, and I really miss the chicken wraps from the Refectory! Balancing study and free time helped me grow a lot, so College felt like a great stepping stone between school and University – I had a sense of responsibility but access to support when I needed it.

I’m currently in my second year at Imperial College London studying Earth and Planetary Science where I’ve tailored my degree to a more geophysical route of study. My modules cover a range of topics, from core topics such as Maths and Mechanics to more specialised units on Solar System Geoscience and Geomaterials and Stratigraphy. Each module brings a different aspect of geoscience into focus, allowing me to deepen my understanding of the Earth and its application to other planets.

From day one, field work has been central to the course with trips to Wales through to an independent mapping project in Spain, and these serve to expand my learning experience out in the real world. Right now, I’m looking for a summer placement so that I can apply what I am learning at university in the workplace.

I can’t emphasise enough the importance of looking at careers in the Lower Sixth! I’ll admit I left it to the very last minute looking at degrees and I’m very lucky to have found one I am so happy with.

I know it can be difficult deciding what you want beyond College, especially when it feels like you’ve only just got there. But College is there for you and the work experience at the end of the Lower Sixth really can help you narrow down your choices: my work experience made me realise geosciences was the path I wanted to go down.

Do make the most of the Careers team and don’t be afraid to ask teachers about what they did as well. There are so many options out there, so aim high!

Harvey Cliffe

Reigate College: 2021-2023

Higher education: MSc Earth and Planetary Science, Imperial College London