Jerman Scholarship: Megan Watkins

Megan Watkins, 19, Craswall, Herefordshire is a second year BSc (Hons) Agri-Business and a recipient of The Jerman Scholarship.

“I am extremely honoured to have received the Jerman Scholarship, in memory of Mr and Mrs Jerman. The award means so much to me; it will not only allow me to continue my full participation at Harper Adams University but will enable me to do so much more such as attending conferences and completing extra-curricular courses. This funding will ultimately allow me to improve my employability as I embark on my agricultural career. I admire the Jerman Scholarship as I feel that investing in young people and enabling them to fulfil their potential will produce individuals who will enable the rural economy to thrive in the future.

“I am extremely grateful to the Development Trust for their support and I would encourage all students to apply for a scholarship in the future. I would like to say a huge thank you to the Jerman family for this opportunity and their generosity.

“My desire to have a career within agriculture was fuelled by my upbringing on our family farm where we breed pedigree Texels and Limousins. This background ignited a passion for British food and farming from a very young age. It seemed a natural decision therefore to study an agricultural related degree and the BSc Agri-Business course at Harper Adams University appealed to me immensely.”

Megan talked about her achievements outside of here studies at Haper Adams. She said, “Away from my studies, I am a keen sportswoman and I thoroughly enjoy my role as Captain of Harper Adams Second Netball Team. I am an extremely enthusiastic Young Farmers member, currently holding the position of National Young Farmers Youth Forum Chairman, a prestigious role which allows me to champion junior members, ensuring their voices are heard.

Following a summer placement at ABP as an agricultural assistant, I am excited to embark on a career within the agricultural sector, starting with an amazing opportunity as Agricultural Placement Student at Waitrose later this year.

“I love competitions within Young Farmers and have been proud to represent my area in many National competitions over the years, I am the current National Young Stockman of the Year, an award which required me to judge four rings of stock, identify cuts of meat and complete a veterinary health questionnaire.”