University of Manchester student Catherine Smith has just completed a five-month internship at BSAC HQ as part of her PhD research into the cultural history of underwater exploration in Britain.
Catherine, who has been a member of BSAC since 2012, was granted funding from the North West Social Science Doctoral Training Programme to undertake her internship. As well as interviewing BSAC members as part of her oral history project, Catherine also worked on several strategy-related initiatives during her time with BSAC.
Previously a member of Aberdeen SAC, Catherine currently dives with Manchester University SAC. She said working alongside the BSAC HQ team over the past five months had been a rewarding experience.
Catherine said:
HQ was an extremely friendly environment, and I am grateful for the chance to learn more about BSAC and to make some contributions. A huge thank you to my supervisors, Max Jones and Emma Barrett, and to Mary Tetley and Sophie Heptonstall for helping me to design the internship and give me this fantastic opportunity.
Sophie Heptonstall, Head of Diving and Training thanked Catherine for her contribution to a variety of projects during her internship. Sophie said:
Catherine also provided BSAC staff and council with several research reports – including Regional Coaching and eLearning. The second part of her internship focused on our equality, diversity and inclusion approach, as well as safeguarding. Some of these projects are still ongoing and we would like to thank Catherine for all her hard work.
