My Journey into Geology: Breaking Barriers and Exploring New Horizons
Hemangi Kapoor
My name is Hemangi Kapoor, and I’m currently in my third year of studying Geology at the University of Bristol. When people hear I’m studying geology, they often say, "Oh, so you study rocks?" This assumption bothers me because geology is so much more. It’s the scientific study of the Earth, encompassing everything from its structure and evolution to the forces that shape its surface. Geology helps us understand earthquakes, volcanoes, mountains, oceans, and the resources we rely on for modern life.
Geology plays a vital role in various industries like oil, mining, construction, and environmental protection. Geologists study natural hazards, helping communities prepare for events like earthquakes and landslides, and also contribute to sustainable resource extraction. What excites me most is how geology intersects with other fields like physics, chemistry, and even engineering. The principles we use in geophysics or tectonics are often foundational in aerospace and mechanical engineering. To me, geology is about more than just understanding the Earth—it’s about uncovering the mysteries of the universe.
Discovering Geology
My journey to geology wasn’t planned; it unfolded naturally. Growing up, I didn’t know what career I wanted to pursue. At school, I was always a high achiever and loved learning. I approached every subject with curiosity. One of my favorite projects in Year 6 was a case study on Mt. Vesuvius, and looking back, that project foreshadowed my future path.
In secondary school, I gravitated toward subjects that piqued my interest, rather than following traditional paths. By Year 9, I was excelling in all subjects but was particularly drawn to geography and the sciences. I loved understanding how the world worked, from both a physical and human perspective. My teachers, especially in geography and chemistry, were passionate and inspired me to pursue these subjects further.
Choosing My Path
During my A-Levels, I chose Chemistry, Geography, and Biology after switching from French, which didn’t quite fit. Even then, I wasn’t sure what career I wanted. I attended masterclasses and lectures in various subjects, but it wasn’t until I received advice from multiple sources that geology clicked. My A-Level geography teacher, who had studied geology, shared her experiences, which resonated with me. A conversation with my dentist about his geologist father-in-law and discussions with my chemistry teacher, who had worked in diamond mining, helped solidify my decision.
All these influences led me to rewrite my personal statement and apply for geology degrees. I was accepted into every university I applied to, and I ultimately chose the University of Bristol.
Breaking Barriers and Embracing Opportunities
Geology isn’t a common field, especially for women and people of color, but that only motivated me more. During my degree, I’ve had incredible experiences, from field trips across the UK to upcoming opportunities in Scotland and Greece. These trips involve mapping geological formations and gathering data, which we analyze using advanced software like ARC GIS, MATLAB, and Google Earth Pro. My interests lie in geophysics, radioactive earth, and tectonic processes—fields that combine theory with real-world impact.
The Importance of Work Experience
It wasn’t until recently that I realized the true value of work experience. My boyfriend, Will, who is an aerospace engineering degree apprentice, opened my eyes to the fact that excelling in academics alone isn’t enough. Employers want hands-on experience.
This summer, I took the initiative to become a STEM ambassador and secured an internship with Arcadis in their Geotechnical Division. This week-long experience was invaluable, and I learned that sometimes, all it takes is asking. Networking and gaining industry experience are essential in today’s competitive job market. It’s not just about grades anymore—work experience is what sets you apart.
This experience taught me that work experience isn’t just a nice addition to your resume—it’s essential. It not only provides practical skills and industry insights that can’t be learned in a classroom, but it also makes you a more attractive candidate to potential employers. In a world where competition for jobs is fierce, having a solid foundation of work experience can be the difference between landing your dream job and being overlooked.
Moving Forward
My journey into geology has been one of exploration and breaking barriers. I’ve learned that your career path doesn’t have to follow a traditional route—what’s important is pursuing what excites and interests you. For any girl out there wondering if she can pursue a niche field, remember that barriers are meant to be broken. Follow your curiosity, seek out opportunities, and don’t be afraid to ask for what you want. Geology has shown me that the Earth, like our lives, is full of layers waiting to be uncovered.
