Connor Munro Flanagan – MRes Science and Health

Connor Munro-Flanagan: Having unearthed all kinds of fossils during his studies, Connor feels confident about his future.

Thanks to a wealth of field trips and the University’s Master’s Scholarship, Connor has built his confidence and capabilities, ready for an exciting career. Discover his story.

Deciding to study at Portsmouth wasn’t a hard choice for me.

It’s one of only a handful of universities in the UK to offer a Palaeontology undergraduate course. And it’s very accommodating, with plenty of relaxing environments near the coast.

The undergraduate course at Portsmouth boasts a range of practical experience, with loads of field trips. I now have lots of experience in fossil collection and preparation, including a week-long dig in which we unearthed crocodile and dinosaur material.

That theme is carried forward with my postgraduate study. I’m excited to embark on a 10-day tour of fossil localities in Morocco with my supervisor. The staff at Portsmouth are truly a highlight of my experience.

A Master’s Scholarship takes the pressure off

I was awarded a £3,000 Master’s Scholarship from the University.

I graduated with a 1st class honours Bachelor’s degree. But a Master’s in Palaeontology is essential for anyone wanting to make a career in the field.

I was awarded a £3,000 Master’s Scholarship from the University which, along with my student loan and job, makes ends meet just fine. It allows me to focus on my work without exhausting myself with a second job or being too worried about finances.

My days are either dedicated to academic work, my role as a student ambassador, or extracurricular experience like fossil hunting and prep.

Building confidence and connecting with great people 

‘I have seen a huge increase in my confidence in meeting new people and my capability to present to crowds.’

My time at Portsmouth will set me up nicely to progress to PhD study, which is essential for a career in academia.

I have seen a huge increase in my confidence in meeting new people and my capability to present to crowds.

If you’re coming to study at Portsmouth, I suggest you surround yourself with people you admire and make connections early. Seminars are a great place to start talking with older students and staff in a more relaxed context.

I have become more diligent and industrious with regards to my work. Also, I have generally become a less worried and more kind person while studying at Portsmouth.

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