Karoliina Isoaho

Graduated: 2013
Degree: BA Modern Languages and Contemporary Europe
Languages: French and German
Current position: PhD. Environmental Policy

After completing my undergraduate and master’s degreIsoaho_ML_alumnies I got my first job at Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research where I worked as a Visiting Scientist for 6 months. Since then, I have gained experience in climate policy research at the Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment as well as at the Committee on Climate Change, UK. Aiming at a career in research, I have recently started as a doctoral student at the University of Helsinki.

For an undergraduate ML student who is interested in a career in the environmental sector, I would recommend engaging in relevant societies at university (Divest, Green Action etc) and also seeing what opportunities there are to volunteer at a local charity or non-profit to promote sustainability. There are also many opportunities for internships both during and post-university in Europe – especially if you possess good language skills and are willing to gain international experience (Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, France).

What skills did you take from your ML degree that you now utilise in your career?

 The skills in critical thinking and qualitative research methods that I gained at Southampton have been invaluable in my research career.

Having a comprehensive knowledge of French and German has also been a huge asset and the language skills have enabled me to work professionally in international settings. I also have access to policy documents and reports that are written in different languages, which helps in my research.

While at Southampton, I created a habit of keeping up-to-date with what is happening in the countries where the languages that I studied are spoken. This has helped me maintain my language skills and further develop my international profile.

What would you recommend an undergraduate student do now if they want to go into this field?

 See how you can link your dissertation/year abroad project to environmental issues.

Take advantage of every opportunity to enhance your CV at university (course representative, committee member of a society etc)

Many environmental jobs are in developing countries – check out options to gain internship experience or volunteer in Latin America, Asia etc.

Continue to do a Master’s degree in environmental studies

What international opportunities are there to your career?

 Choosing a career in the environmental sector offers numerous opportunities to work abroad, use your languages and even learn new ones! You can find jobs in international organisations, NGOs, in the private sector, doing field work in developing countries

 

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Category: Alumni Profiles

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