MSc Sustainability & Environmental StudiesMariana Gabriela Páez Jiménez
Mariana Gabriela Páez Jiménez from Mexico joined the MSc in Sustainability and Environmental Studies, following being awarded a prestigious British Council Women in STEM Scholarship in 2024. Angeles shares why she chose Strathclyde for her studies, and what she is enjoying most about her time here.
How did you first hear about the University of Strathclyde?
I first heard about Strathclyde last year when I started looking into master’s programmes to study.
Why did you choose to study at Strathclyde?
I chose Strathclyde for a number of reasons. First of all, I was interested in the MSc in Sustainability and Environmental Studies course they offer, and the wide range of elective classes on offer on this course. I was also impressed with the University’s awards and reputation, and its strong connections with companies.
The location of the campus in Glasgow city centre and Strathclyde’s welcoming international community were also key factors in my decision to choose Strathclyde.
How has being awarded a British Council Women in STEM scholarship impacted your studies?
I first heard about the scholarship after seeing an Instagram story advertising it last year. Being awarded the scholarship really has been life changing. Without it, I would never have been able to study in the UK, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity.
What do you like about your course?
I appreciate the opportunity to tailor the curriculum to match my interests and the cross-disciplinary approach of the course. I also enjoy the interactive workshops we sometimes have during classes, as well as the process of researching different topics for assignments and receiving individual or group feedback from lecturers, which broadens my perspective. Additionally, I also like the opportunity to collaborate with classmates and lecturers from many different backgrounds, especially in group projects—it’s enriching to hear different perspectives, and these discussions are incredibly educational and eye-opening.
What do you like about Glasgow and Scotland? Have you managed to do much travelling whilst here?
I love both the city and the country! I enjoy visiting museums, castles, and parks, as well as learning about their historical heritage. Glasgow is full of art—it’s easy to find concerts, paintings, poetry, and more. I have visited many tourist attractions in Glasgow, Stirling, and Edinburgh, as well as natural landscapes like Loch Lomond.
I also had the opportunity to go hiking through a university society, and the landscapes were breathtaking. I'm looking forward to visiting the Highlands in the coming weeks. Beyond sightseeing, I love visiting libraries, theatres, coffee shops, bars, and clubs. In addition, the people here are incredibly welcoming, especially the Glaswegians. My Scottish classmates have been very friendly and supportive.
What has been the highlight of your time here so far?
This experience has been life-changing in many ways. I love the city of Glasgow and all it has to offer, the knowledge I’ve gained at University, the diversity of thought, and the open-mindedness I’ve developed. Thriving in my studies has given me a strong sense of fulfilment.
What do you do in your spare time? Are you part of any groups or societies?
I usually go out for walks or visit nearby attractions. While I’m not formally part of any societies, I’ve made great friends and often spend time with them. When it’s too cold or rainy, I stay in to watch movies or read books.
What are your ambitions for the future and how do you think your time at Strathclyde will help you achieve your goals?
As an environmental engineer and future MSc graduate in Sustainability, I want to build a career in STEM, helping communities implement sustainability initiatives and supporting organisations in achieving their Net Zero commitments. As a Woman in STEM, I also hope to inspire young girls and women to pursue careers in this field. My time at Strathclyde has equipped me with both the technical knowledge and the soft skills necessary to achieve these goals.
Would you recommend Strathclyde to other people and why?
Yes! The University offers a high academic standard, excellent lecturers, strong student support, and innovative courses that keep up with the latest developments in various fields.
