Gayle Lister
Subject: BA Geography
Graduated: 1997
Place of work: Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority
Position: Forward Planning Officer
What made you choose to study geography at the University?
I knew early in on my A levels that geography was the subject I wanted to read at university. I loved the variety of the subject and the way it combined so many other different subjects.
I had a few universities that had a good reputation for geography but once I had seen the campus at Nottingham, there was no competition. For me, Nottingham offered the best range of modules too meaning that I was able to study both human and physical modules rather than specialising. This flexibility has since proved invaluable in my various jobs.
What skills did you acquire during this time?
So many, it's difficult to pick individual skills. Statistical analysis of data, research methods and cartography, and fieldwork skills are the ones that stand out as having been extremely useful in my work, but I also discovered a love for oceanography which led me to teaching not only geography but marine biology for 11 years.
What are your fondest memories from your time at the school?
The oceanography fieldwork with Dr Bob Dugdale, sailing around the islands of Mull, Coll, Tiree and Staffa stands out for me. Not only did I learn so much about the sea, tides and the processes that have shaped our coastline, I also learnt to sail on Dr. Dugdale's yacht, 'Khamsin' and got to sample his incredible cooking!
I loved the fact that fieldwork was such an integral part of the course and a trip early on in our first year meant that us geographers were a fairly tight knit bunch, something my friends on other courses were often envious of.
Where are you working now and what does the role involve?
After spending 20 years teaching geography field work at a residential field centre, teaching geography in an independent school and being a Discovery Ranger, I am now a Forward Planning Officer for the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority.
My job involves helping to put together our Local Development Plan policies to ensure that the National Park is conserved and enhanced for residents and visitors, now and in the future. These policies have to be in line with Welsh Government legislation and are the policies that our Development Management team must consider when they decide to grant or refuse planning permissions.
My particular areas of responsibility include waste, minerals, biodiversity, renewable energy, affordable housing and land availability and retail so the job is incredibly varied and challenging and I love it!
What advice would you give to someone considering following a similar career path?
Planning is a hugely challenging and exciting career with so many different aspects to it. Find out more about your local planning authority and find out if you can shadow a planner or even volunteer in a Planning department. There are lots of different roles as a planner so get some idea of which role interests you the most.
Don't be afraid to make a change in your career path. I loved teaching geography in the various ways I did for 20 years and never really dreamed I would have a career change at my age. However, I took an opportunity when one arose and I am so glad I did!