Catherine Amusugut
MSc Integrated Petroleum Geosciences, 2010
From Aberdeen to Subsurface Leader
Your Time at Aberdeen
Why did you choose to study at Aberdeen?
I chose the University of Aberdeen because of its reputation as one of the best academically.
Why did you choose your particular course?
As a reservoir geologist, the MSC Integrated Petroleum Geosciences course was a natural choice to progress my career.
What did you most enjoy about your time at Aberdeen? Did you have any particularly memorable student experiences?
I met new people, both students and lecturers, some of whom became friends. We still keep in touch and occasionally meet.
If you were involved in any clubs and societies as a student, what did you enjoy most about them and what benefit do you think they have for students?
I played Basketball for the University team. It was a great stress-buster and gave me an opportunity to meet new and interesting people from outside the department. The road trips and nights out are some of my fondest memories to date.
If talking to a group of prospective students, what advice would you give them to help them make the most of their time at the University of Aberdeen?
Make the most of your time at university. Study hard, but also make time to do the things you enjoy. Whether it is sports, travel, or art, indulge!
Your Time After Aberdeen
What was the title of your first job after graduating from Aberdeen?
Reservoir Geologist at the Directorate of Petroleum in Uganda.
What did your first role involve?
Reservoir characterization and field development planning, for several fields in Uganda.
What is your current job title?
Geoscience Manager at Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC).
What is your current role?
Subsurface reservoir characterization and project management, together with our joint venture partners in the Lake Albert projects that are currently at the detailed engineering stage.
Please briefly describe the journey from your first job after graduating to where you are now.
From exploration to field development planning, and now project planning, I have been involved in Uganda's petroleum projects. I am now looking forward to First oil.
Was your degree at Aberdeen essential for getting to where you are now? If so, in what way?
Yes, it was. It gave me competence to perform my role, and confidence to speak with anyone in the industry.
One Top Tip
Be present, stay curious, always do your best and challenge the boundaries. Enjoy life!