Laura Broadley is a MSc Audio Engineering alumni, graduating in 2020. She now works for acoustics consultancy Cass Allen. Here, she talks through her job and explains how Leeds Beckett has helped her with her career.

Course: MSc Audio Engineering (now MSc Audio and Acoustics)

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you've been doing since you graduated?

I’m Laura, an enthusiastic graduate who loves the outdoors and winter sports. On the evening and weekends, if I’m not out exploring the countryside with my Husky, you’ll find me on the ice, fighting for a puck.

Life has been a whirlwind since I finished my course in October 2019. Since I graduated, I have been working for Cass Allen, an acoustics consultancy which has recently expanded to include air quality. March 2020 saw the start of COVID-19 and suddenly all my training and development was done remotely which was quite a challenge but something we have managed to push through. I’ve moved locations several times while staying with Cass Allen and I’ve had some amazing opportunities to learn and develop my skills with constant support. I’ve been all over the country measuring noise and the future looks exciting!

What have been the highlights and challenges of your career so far?

I’ve helped to design some really interesting and acoustically complex buildings including schools, crematoria and unusually shaped churches. I’ve watched airshows while measuring noise from the aircraft and measured the difference in noise levels between different types of cartridges for clay pigeon shooting. I’ve been into several pubs and clubs measuring noise and I’ve been challenged on my knowledge constantly, helping me to learn and develop into a more competent and experienced acoustics consultant.

Some of the biggest challenges I’ve faced include doing solo meetings to discuss my work with clients and the wider project team and being a Project Manager for multiple active projects. I am given enough responsibility to push my boundaries while always having the support I need. 

How has your experience of studying at Leeds Beckett influenced you and your career?

My time at Leeds Beckett massively helped with my communication and teamwork skills. My studies helped me to understand the basics of acoustics and apply that to my current role. The university brought together a lovely mix of people on my course from all over the country and different parts of the world - this made for an amazing group of people to learn with. 

What advice would you give someone thinking about studying this course?

This course is perfect for you to step straight into an acoustics-based role if you guide your studies and projects in the right direction. Read the modules and course handbooks, speak to the lecturers. I chose this course because my undergraduate degree didn’t focus on acoustics and I needed a way in. This was the perfect stepping stone for my career.

What's next for you?

I am currently aiming for a promotion to Senior Consultant. I am fully supported by Cass Allen in my ambitions and I am given fantastic opportunities to learn and develop independently and as part of a team. There are areas of the job that develop with experience and I am eager to keep learning. I miss Yorkshire and as our work continues to expand in the area I’ll hopefully be back soon!