Leila Kiersch

Leila graduated from Aber in 2001 with an BSc in Environmental Biology. She now works for Sharenergy, leading an innovative community energy project focused on farm-scale wind turbines in Wales and Scotland, the first time a community energy project has brought together farm-scale wind projects in different countries within the UK. 

What do you remember most about your time at Aber?

I was a new parent when I started my course, so most of my memories are about juggling a baby and toddler with full time study! However, I also have fond memories of the excellent and supportive lecturers and fossocking for plant life on field trips to Ireland (in non-stop rain) and Spain (in non-stop sun).

What are you doing now career-wise and how has your Aberystwyth Degree helped?

I started working in renewable energy a few years after I finished my degree and it is very rewarding work. I work on projects across the range of technologies. Having a scientific degree has been an asset as it gave me tools in the careful assessment of detailed technical information and higher level numeracy / literacy. I also find the general background on environmental policy and ecology have been helpful when it comes to planning and licences.

What advice would you have for a student doing your course now?

Enjoy your time, get as much relevant work experience while you are studying as you can, identify the areas of the course which you can be passionate about and make sure you know them inside out. By a good raincoat, sun hat and walking boots.