I have been able to participate in so many additional activities: research, extra-curricular, professional, and social; all of which have been paramount to me growing as an individual and giving back in the same areas. There is a wealth of impassioned individuals that make up the identity of Loughborough and that really does make it enjoyable to be a part of.

I have previously been a Doctoral (and Lead) Representative for my department (and School), as well as Doctoral Co-President. These roles were very important to me as they helped improve my engagement and action on key social issues affecting doctoral researchers at the University. This is something I try to maintain and am currently a member of the Loughborough Students' Union Democracy and Representation Committee which provides a platform for setting the policy of the Union’s activities and to maintain accountability. Further to this I recently joined the School of Aeronautical and Automotive, Chemical and Materials Engineering Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Committee and became a Facilitator for #ME Mental Health Support.

I am also a member of the Women's Engineering Society and The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management. I have performed various presentations over my studies namely around biopolymeric materials and waste, particularly misconceptions around them!

Studying for a PhD has taught me that that I am capable of more than I had previously thought.