Hi everyone! My name is Abi, and I’m a postgraduate student pursuing an MSc in Island Biodiversity and Conservation at the University of Exeter. What makes my course unique is that it’s run through a Jersey-based charity, the Jersey International Centre of Advanced Studies (JICAS). So I’m living and studying in the beautiful Channel Islands! As my first semester winds down, I wanted to share my journey, reflections, and some tips for anyone considering postgraduate studies or island living.
The beginning – travelling to Jersey:
When I set off for Jersey I was so nervous, but also very excited. I’d already done the moving away from home part when I moved to Manchester for my undergraduate degree, but this time I was going over the sea. I found moving to an island significantly more daunting than moving slightly up the country! I had to catch a ferry to Jersey, so it was a very early start (my Dad and I left at around 3am), which felt like a very surreal start to a new chapter. My Dad stayed overnight at a hotel to help move me in, so it wasn’t until the next day that it really sank in. I went to wave the ferry off from the end of Elizabeth Pier, and as it sailed out of view it suddenly dawned on me that I was left standing on an island where I pretty much knew nobody (I’m very lucky to have some family on Jersey, but they were on holiday when I got here!) Here’s a picture I took of my Dad waving from the ferry:
Thankfully, I wasn’t completely alone. I was in student accommodation with others from my course who were also new to Jersey. There’s something comforting about knowing you’re all in the same boat, figuring things out together. I actually ran into one of the girls from my course in a corridor! However, during my first year of my undergraduate degree I definitely knocked on a few doors to get to know the people in the rooms around me!
I moved to Jersey a week before the course started, which I really recommend if you are moving to a new place for uni! This gives you such a good chance to settle in and get your bearings before the hard work starts. It’s also a really good way to make friends at the beginning, as you can discover your new home together. Nobody else knows where the closest shops are either, and we even made an outing out of going to sort out student bus passes. This week was also an amazing time to explore the island, as I had been a few times before but never with the view of staying here. Here we are after a swim at Portelet Bay on my third (?) day in Jersey:
Starting studies:
When you’re doing your undergraduate degree, everybody always tells you to treat it like a 9-5 job. I didn’t really do that for mine, but I definitely do for this course! The jump to postgraduate study involves significantly more independent learning. While manageable, it requires good time management. Establishing a routine has been crucial not only for staying on top of work but also for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. I know that when 5 p.m. rolls around, my studies are done for the day, leaving evenings free for activities I enjoy—like night diving! Since getting here I’ve even completed my PADI Open Water, Advanced Open Water and Dry Suit Diver qualifications!
Here’s a post-diving pic (can you believe it was this sunny on October 27th?) :
It definitely takes time to settle in, and for the first few weeks of my course I felt like I was on a summer camp and would be going home any time soon (I remember feeling like this in my first year at Manchester too), but give it time and it starts to feel like your life. One challenge I have had this time around was juggling part-time work alongside my studies; I only worked in the holidays during my undergrad, but I’m not really leaving Jersey for the holidays this time so I’ve been working alongside my degree. I manage about nine hours a week in hospitality, with additional responsibilities like handling JICAS’s social media and writing blogs like this one. I have found that the key to finding jobs that suit you is reaching out directly to companies or following their social media accounts. It’s a more time-consuming way of looking for work, but the experience and connections make it worthwhile, and people always appreciate that you are being proactive!
Swapping to a different subject for postgraduate study:
One of the things I was particularly concerned about starting my Masters was swapping to a different subject at such a high level. My undergraduate degree was in Biomedical Sciences, which isn’t exactly related to Island Biodiversity and Conservation. When I started my Masters, I was so worried that I would already be behind. However, I quickly realised I wasn’t alone—many of us were transitioning from different academic backgrounds. I think ‘imposter syndrome’ is a natural worry, and it’s one that I found other people on the course definitely shared. The support from classmates who had studied ecology or conservation before was invaluable. They helped me catch up on concepts I was less familiar with, and I even found was able to help them in some areas. I went from feeling out of my depth at the beginning to earning a distinction in the first module by embracing the support available. If you are considering swapping careers or subject areas at a postgraduate level, don’t let this fear hold you back!
Coping with the changing seasons:
The first semester is always a little tougher as the days start to get shorter. The darker evenings can be gloomy, so I think it is important to adjust your routine to compensate. Here are some of the things I think make a big difference:
- Get outside early. Starting the day with fresh air helps wake you up when you’re feeling sluggish (especially if it’s still dark).
- Take vitamin D. I find that this really help with keeping my energy levels up in the Autumn/Winter
- Stay active. Don’t let the cold or dark deter you from getting out – organise evening walks with friends to make the winter days feel longer and more enjoyable. For those in Penryn, I personally love a nighttime walk on the beach (under the stars if it’s a clear night!)
I feel like you can almost see how much colder it is from the December pictures:
Getting festive:
As Christmas approaches, Jersey is becoming beautifully festive. The holiday lights are up, and the Christmas train has started going past when I’m at work!
I’ll be spending most of the Christmas break here due to my part-time job in hospitality, but I’m excited to head home for Christmas Day itself. My parents have even got a new rescue kitten while I’ve been gone that I’m desperate to meet (one of the hardships of moving away!). I have also planned two weeks in January to visit family and catch up with my undergrad friends, who are now scattered across the country. Scheduling calls and visits in advance has been key to staying connected with them!
(Here’s a picture of our new kitten, for anyone that likes cats. She’s stolen my childhood bedroom!)
Highlights of my first semester:
Reflecting on the past few months, some of the best moments have been exploring the natural beauty of Jersey. From stunning coastal walks to nights spent diving, the island offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Being immersed in nature has made my studies feel even more relevant and rewarding. When I’m particularly busy with uni work, I try to use simple tasks to get myself outside. For example, I like to get outside to eat my breakfast when I can. This is especially important to me on the more intense weeks to remind myself why I am studying conservation. I like to head to the end of the pier for some brisk sea air (and a nice view).
I’ve also loved being able to spend so much time in the water. It’s December and I am still sea swimming! Granted it’s getting harder now that the weather is getting worse (I’ve had a couple of rather windy aborted swims), but it’s so nice to be able to reset like that in study breaks.
Looking ahead to the next term:
As I prepare for the next semester, I’m both excited and apprehensive. I have quite a few deadlines over the Christmas period, but I am also hoping to use it as an opportunity to get ready to hit the ground running in January. I constantly have our course director’s voice in my head saying, “work ahead, stay ahead” (thanks Sean). That said, I’m ready to dive into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Studying Island Biodiversity and Conservation in Jersey has already been such a rewarding experience, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
Personal growth and lessons learned:
Reflecting on my first semester, I realise just how much I’ve grown—not just academically, but personally as well. Moving to Jersey, adapting to a new academic field, and balancing multiple commitments have all pushed me out of my comfort zone in ways I didn’t expect.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of resilience. There were moments when the workload felt overwhelming or when I missed home and my undergrad friends. But those challenges taught me to trust myself and find solutions, whether it was breaking tasks into smaller steps or reaching out for support.
I’ve also gained a deeper appreciation for community. From bonding with my housemates over small adventures to leaning on classmates for academic support, I’ve seen how valuable it is to surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you.
Finally, I’ve learned the value of saying yes to opportunities. Whether it’s an evening dive, a spontaneous beach walk, or a new project at work, the moments I’ve embraced have made my experience here so rich and fulfilling.
Final Thoughts:
If you’re considering postgraduate studies, especially in a new field or location, I hope my reflections have given you some insight. The transition isn’t always easy, but with time, support, and a little bit of courage, it’s so worth it.
To anyone embarking on a similar journey—good luck! Enjoy every moment of it and embrace the beauty of change!
