My second year of university has come and gone in a flash and the British summer is upon us. The year has been full of a good balance of work and play. My course, Agricultural Business Management, has not failed to enlighten me into how diverse and exciting our industry is. I have participated in compulsory modules focusing on livestock production, cereal agronomy and business elements, and have specialised in areas of the industry to which I have a particular interest including modules in food retailing, animal health and disease and marketing management. We have been on a number of visits to local farms which have been very beneficial in order to apply the theoretical knowledge learnt in the classroom into practical situations. My hard work throughout the year has paid off after achieving a first for my second year academic work and exams.r
I have also continued to play netball for the university, a great way to keep fit and socialise with those other than your course mates. Wednesday's each week are packed with competitive matches followed by crazy themed nights out. This year I was also part of the netball committee playing a role in keeping the club successfully running throughout the year, helping to organise tournaments, netball kit and much more.
This year I also undertook the challenge to take part in the Reading Half Marathon. The day arrived in the middle of March, unfortunately the weather was not on our side but the torrential rain didn't put off the support from the public, and the whole experience was one that will remain with me for a long time to come. I raised over £600 for The Alzheimer's Society in memory of my Granny. Needless to say I have caught the running bug and am looking for my next challenge to complete.
Over the summer I am working for Red Tractor Assurance, a good chance to put into practice what I have learnt over the year and also gain experience within the industry I am so keen to be involved with. I have already attended agricultural shows all over the country and have numerous projects on the go that are keeping me busy.
I also hope to travel some of Europe in September before returning to Reading for my final year of studies. I have already started working on my dissertation project titled "The factors influencing an English beef producer's decision to become farm assured" which coincides well with my summer work and my own interests. I am sure the year ahead of me will fly by and this time next year I hope to be a successful graduate.
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