Summer has come to an end but Elise we have managed to Nick four new Graduate Gems, what an El of a find!

We are pleased to announce our most recent recruits to the Transport Planning Teams - Gemma Hull, Nick Evans, Eleanor Geary and Elise Ferdinando join us as Graduate Transport Planners!

Gemma recently graduated from the University of Portsmouth with a BA Human Geography degree. After studying modules at university including ‘Creative Economies’ and ‘Transport & Sustainability’, Gemma discovered a keen interest for urban development and sustainability. Throughout Gemma’s time at university, she worked various part-time jobs in retail and hospitality but was keen to work within the transport planning industry following graduation. At a careers event organised by the University of Portsmouth, Gemma was first introduced to Paul Basham Associates. It was following this that Gemma applied for the role of Graduate Transport Planner. In August 2022, Gemma joined our office in Abingdon and is excited to begin project work.

On the weekends, Gemma enjoys going out with her family and two dogs (Mia & Marco) whilst visiting nearby Cotswold villages. During the lockdowns, Gemma learnt how to create digital illustrations. When Gemma has some spare time, she uses drawing to de-stress and as a form of mindfulness. Aside from this, Gemma enjoys going holiday - her most recent trip took her to Norway!

Elise graduated in 2021 from Cardiff University with a degree in BSc Human Geography and then continued with her studies in Cardiff undertaking a master’s degree in MSc International Planning and Development. During her studies at university, Elise discovered her passion for urban development, transport development and policy, sustainability and planning for the future. Elise very much enjoyed studying for 4 years and gaining the opportunity to develop relevant skills and experience ready for her professional career. In July 2022, she joined Paul Basham Associates as a Graduate Transport Planner and is very excited to grow within her new position. 

Elise is a big lover of the outdoors and exploring new areas for walking. Her biggest trek was reaching the top of Mount Kilimanjaro in 2019 - an incredible experience which she would recommend to everybody. Elise loves travelling to new places and going on holiday as much as possible! Elise's favourite sport is skiing with some après too and going to the gym and prioritising her health and fitness keeps her happy! As much as she likes exploring, Elise loves going out for some nice food and drinks with her friends and family.

Born in Cambridge, Nick is delighted to begin work with the rest of the Cambridge team! Being a recent geography graduate, Nick started his career in hospitality management within hotels in both London and Cambridge but is now looking bring his client building and problem-solving experience into the world of transport planning. Nick has expressed excitement in getting involved in some local projects close to home as well as learning new skills in helping to further grow the newest region of the company.

Outside of work, Nick spends time socialising with his friends and family, enjoying American football and during the Winter getting at least one week on his skis where possible. 

After Eleanor completed her undergraduate in Geography from the University of Portsmouth in 2021, she then chose to stay on and complete a master’s in human resource management. Eleanor has always been interested in transport and sustainability with her dissertation being focused on this, for her undergraduate. Eleanor is currently completing her dissertation for her masters, alongside starting at Paul Basham Associates. She is excited for the skills and knowledge she will gain from the job, and to utilise her keen interest in transport planning and sustainability. 

Eleanor has an interest in travelling, which led to her passion in geography and her degree. She even loves a quick city break for a weekend, and would like to travel to as many places as possible. Eleanor also enjoys the outdoors for running or long walks. However, she does enjoy a chilled evening or a trip down the pub with friends to relax.

Congratulations and welcome to the team!