Maeve's success story: Securing a graduate role at WSP

Maeve is an Environmental Sciences graduate from the University of East Anglia. She secured a role as a Graduate Environmental Consultant at WSP, through Bright Network.  

First, please tell us a little bit about yourself.

“When I was picking my A-levels and degree, my goal was to become an environmental engineer – someone who would work with the environment and improve it to facilitate construction and infrastructure development.

Throughout my degree we reflected a lot on circular economies, climate policy and, eventually, how Environmental Impact Assessments contribute to the bettering of our environment in developments.

I’ve always been passionate about making sure developments align with our goals for the environment, and this role contributes to that every day.”

What motivated you to apply for your role?

“WSP was an attractive choice due to its size and range of projects. It’s one of the only consultancies where you could work on almost any project you can imagine whilst working anywhere you can imagine.

There’s no cusp on opportunity if you’re willing to go out and look for it, and I think that was made clear in employee testimonies and the culture that’s created throughout the company.”

What was the application process like?

“The application process consisted of an online application, psychometric tests and then an in-person interview day where we did group assessments and an individual interview.

I was nervous for the individual interview but had a look on Glassdoor and other forums and made sure I felt confident about what might get asked.

The interviewers were really friendly, and the individual interview was a chat about my application more than anything, alongside questions that felt challenging but applicable to the role!”

How did Bright Network help to secure your role?

“Bright Network helped me secure my role through the way in which the job adverts are presented on the platform.”

What are you most proud of about your journey?

“I'm most proud of the way this role aligns with my values and how the people working here constantly remind me that the work towards net zero is being done.

The biggest challenge in this role is probably the length of the projects and the timelines that we work under; sometimes projects take years, and sometimes there'll be a month to turn them around, but it's all a part of the role!”

What are your tips for people looking to follow in your footsteps?

“I would recommend messaging people on LinkedIn who have the role you’re hoping to secure. It’s intimidating, but they’re all on there to connect with the industry and people looking to enter it!

Networking is everything, and it’s much better to get ahead as early as you can and it shows people how motivated you are.”

What have you learnt from going through the process?

“I wish I knew how important your network is! At such a large company, the people you know and how you communicate are the biggest impression you get. It’s important to become better connected by reaching out to people in the industry, attending events and networking opportunities.”

Tell us about the future. What’s next?

“I’m looking forward to having a long-term role in projects and seeing how they develop over time. It’s something that makes you feel like you’ve made a difference, but it can take a while to see your impact as a new starter.

I’m hoping to obtain my AISEP qualification soon, and I look forward to connecting more with ISEP to better understand parts of the industry I haven’t met yet. Most of all, I’m excited to meet more of the people making waves in this industry!”