I was part of the first Scenario cohort and completed my PhD part time over 4.5 years to fit around family commitments. I was based in the Meteorology department in Reading, which provided a very supportive, motivating and inclusive working environment. My somewhat unconventional career path meant that I was considerably older than my peers, but I was made to feel extremely welcome. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to travel to Vienna and Portugal to present my research at conferences during my time in Scenario, and I also enjoyed spending time at the offices of my CASE sponsor, the Satellite Applications Catapult.
I wanted to do a PhD in environmental science so that I could hone and develop my mathematical modelling skills and then put them to use in ways that would benefit society. My PhD investigated ways to improve flood modelling and I now work for the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology (UKCEH) as a hydrological and land surface modeller; my PhD allowed me to secure a research-based job that I thoroughly enjoy. Since working at UKCEH I have been very lucky to be able to continue collaborations with colleagues at Reading thanks to good working relationships developed during my PhD.