Freddie Hemingway

My Graduate Story

My name is Freddie, and I graduated from the University of Birmingham with a Geography degree.

Today, I work as an Assistant Forest Manager at English Woodlands Forestry, where I support the planning, management, and delivery of sustainable forestry operations. My responsibilities include preparation and implementation of woodland management plans, conducting site surveys and assessments to monitor woodland health, biodiversity, and timber resources, coordinating operational tasks such as planting, thinning, felling, and habitat restoration, liaising with landowners, contractors, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders, ensuring compliance with UK forestry standards and environmental regulations, and supporting grant applications and reporting on project outcomes.

English Woodlands Forestry is a professional forest management company based in Sussex, covering the South East of England. We specialise in sustainable forest management, woodland creation and replanting, timber harvesting and marketing, ecological stewardship, and advisory and consultancy services.

A Day in my Life

No two days are alike in forest management. A typical day in my role as an Assistant Forest Manager is either office-based planning and paperwork, or in the surveying and meeting clients and contractors.

At my desk, I work with GIS mapping tools to analyse woodland areas and design new planting schemes. I regularly correspond with clients, contractors, and government bodies, such as the Forestry Commission, Rural Payments Agency and Natural England, on management plans, felling licences, and grant applications. I also prepare detailed woodland management plans and funding proposals to support sustainable forestry objectives.

Out in the field, my work involves surveying woodlands to assess tree health, identify pest or disease issues, and evaluate management needs. I regularly meet with Forestry Commission officers on-site to discuss felling licence applications and Woodland Management Plans. I also dig soil pits to assess site conditions ahead of planting schemes, and supervise harvesting and operational forestry work to ensure it’s carried out responsibly and in line with best practice.

My Journey to English Woodlands Forestry

I graduated from the University of Birmingham during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, which made the job market particularly challenging. Like many others, I had to be flexible and resourceful—so I took on multiple part-time roles, working in pubs and at a historic castle, while continuing to look for opportunities in the environmental sector.

My first real step into the field came when I secured a position as a Field Research Scientist. That role gave me valuable hands-on experience in ecological monitoring and outdoor data collection, and it confirmed my desire to work in land and habitat management.

About a year ago, I made the move to Sussex to begin my forestry career. I joined English Woodlands Forestry as an Assistant Forest Manager, where I now help manage a wide range of woodland projects with a focus on sustainability, biodiversity, and long-term stewardship. It’s been a rewarding journey, and I’m proud to now be part of a sector that directly supports climate resilience and ecological health.

My Birmingham Experience

My geography degree provided a strong foundation for my career in forestry and environmental management. The course combined academic study with fieldwork, which was incredibly valuable. Field trips allowed me to develop key observational and data collection skills in a range of landscapes, which were not only incredibly enjoyable, but also provided me skills I now use regularly in woodland surveys and site assessments.

One of the most directly transferable skills I gained was in GIS mapping and spatial analysis, which I now use almost daily to design planting schemes, assess woodland features, and support management planning.

The course also placed a strong emphasis on report writing and research, which helped me learn how to communicate technical information clearly and professionally. This is invaluable when writing woodland management plans, grant applications, and ecological reports.

Beyond the practical skills, the course exposed me to a broad range of ecological and environmental science topics, giving me a well-rounded understanding of the natural systems I now work to manage and protect.

Birmingham’s Impact

The University’s Careers Network was a really helpful resource during my job search, especially as I was navigating the uncertainty of graduating during the pandemic. They helped me design my CV and tailor it to roles in the environmental sector, which was crucial in standing out for early career opportunities.

I also received advice on interview technique, which gave me the confidence to perform well during the recruitment process. The tips and tricks were particularly useful when applying for my first role as a Field Research Scientist, helping me to clearly communicate my skills and enthusiasm for the sector.

Overall, the Careers Network gave me the tools and guidance I needed to bridge the gap between university and employment, and helped me take that important first step into the environmental field.

I received the Chamberlain Award and it helped make university more accessible for me in the first place, easing some of the pressure around living costs and allowing me to focus more fully on my studies. It also opened the door to extra opportunities I might not have been able to afford otherwise, like taking part in field trips abroad and making the most of my year studying in Canada. These experiences were some of the most enriching parts of my degree, both academically and personally.

My Achievements

It’s a tough choice, but I’d say my biggest achievement was a tie between academic and personal milestones.

Academically, completing my dissertation to a first-class standard was a major highlight. It was the culmination of months of research, critical thinking, and writing, and it really challenged me to work independently and push my analytical skills. Not to mention the fact I had to change my topic from field-based to remote sensing due to Covid.

On the personal side, a standout moment was representing the University of Saskatchewan, where I spent my year abroad, at the Canadian University Sevens rugby tournament. Balancing sport and studies, especially in a new country, was a huge learning experience and one I’m really proud of. It taught me resilience, teamwork, and time management in a completely different context. And of course, making lifelong friends in the process.

Advice for Students

My top tip is: just go for it, even if you don’t tick every single box on the job description. Employers often list an ideal candidate, but they’re also looking for enthusiasm, willingness to learn, and potential. Both in my current role, and previous job, I was told I got the job because I was keen to learn and was passionate about the job, even though other candidates were more qualified on paper.

Also, treat every interview as valuable experience. Even if you don’t get the job, you’ll learn how to present yourself better, answer tough questions, and refine your approach for next time. Every step builds confidence and gets you closer to where you want to be.

Finally, don’t be afraid to step away from your ideal career path, it’s completely normal to take a few different turns before finding your fit. Stay open, be persistent, and keep learning along the way.