School of Social & Environmental Sustainability

Lizzie's Story

Originally from North Carolina in the United States, Lizzie is one of the School’s first graduates from the Environmental Risk Management programme. She currently works as a Communications and Engagement Specialist on Major Flooding Alleviation Projects with the Environment Agency in England. 

Before pursuing her studies in Dumfries, she moved to Tallahassee to work for the Florida Government on Everglades restoration projects. She enjoyed the work and collaborated with local communities to help towards restoring the Everglades to its natural state from centuries ago. During that time, she considered pursuing a Master's degree but was determined to only study something that truly aligned with her goals. While searching for programmes she came across Environmental Risk Management at the University of Glasgow, and found it fit perfectly with what she was looking for.  

“It was the only programme I found that offered the specific curriculum and knowledge I was interested in. Everything seemed to fall into place, and I was so excited to move to Scotland.” 

Not wanting to live in a city, Lizzie was even more thrilled to learn that she would be based at the Dumfries Campus. She settled in Annan, a town about 15 miles from Dumfries town centre. From there, she would take the train and bike to campus, and she found the surroundings incredibly picturesque upon arrival. 

“To anyone looking to move to Scotland I would say: it’s well worth it. It’s one of the most stunning places I’ve ever lived in, and I personally feel like it’s one of the most welcoming places too. Scotland as a whole but Dumfries in particular was so friendly, incredibly beautiful, and welcoming.” 

Now graduated, Lizzie’s role with the Environment Agency combines communications and engagement with fieldwork as a Flood Duty Officer. In her communications role, she translates complex scientific reports into clear, accessible materials for the public, working with geologists, hydrologists, and other experts to ensure key information is effectively conveyed.  

As a Flood Duty Officer, she is on call 24/7 during assigned weeks, monitoring flood risks, issuing warnings, coordinating emergency responses, and making critical real-time decisions.  

“It’s really interesting being able to switch from desk work to in the field, and I really like the mix of science and social science. This programme has definitely prepared me for my current role, and I refer back to so much of what I learned everyday in this job! The programme offered me so many opportunities to grow and learn, and it’s been such an enjoyable journey.”