Rachel Pearson
Rachel graduated with an MA in Archaeology and currently assesses the impacts of federal projects on cultural resources and Tribal interests.
About Rachel
Current occupation:
Environment Consultant
Degrees studied:
Archaeology MA
Year graduated:
2024
Please can you introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about what you've done since graduating.
Hello! My name is Rachel and I am currently working in my hometown of Seattle, WA (USA) as an environmental planner at AECOM.
After graduating I worked as a heritage consultant in England for two years, which was an immensely challenging but rewarding experience. I then moved back to the States and found a role in environmental consultancy.
My work now revolves around assessing the impacts of federal projects on cultural resources and Tribal interests.
Studying at Newcastle
Why did you choose to study at Newcastle University?
I chose to study at Newcastle due to the expertise of their lecturers, the potential for hands on learning, the scholarship opportunities, and the warm and welcoming atmosphere!
How do you think your course prepared you for your chosen career?
I was able to gain experience in historic building recording and GIS, which proved essential for my roles as a heritage consultant and environmental planner. The skills I learned through my courses and assignments with Dr Louise Rayne and Dr Alex Turner were the perfect foundation to build from as I developed my professional career as a consultant.
What did you enjoy most about your time at Newcastle University?
I loved the location - the Northeast is such a unique area with an extraordinary history. Newcastle, in particular, has some beautiful parks and heritage gems. My lecturers and course mates also made my experience so unique and special.
I remember in November one of our field trips was cancelled due to severe winds, and to make up for it, our professor (shout out to Dr. Mark Jackson) scrounged up a turkey and arranged for a Thanksgiving potluck (since there were a handful of Americans on our course). As we gathered with our lecturers and fellow students, the snow began falling outside and it was such a lovely, magical memory.
Please describe your time at Newcastle University in three words:
Empowering, exploratory and formative