Harper Graduate Bradley Key is settling into his graduate career after achieving a First-Class degree.

From the French Alps to the Australian outback and then to an Agriculture with Animal Science degree at Harper Adams. Bradley Key finished his studies with a First-Class Honours Degree and is now settling into his graduate job with Blade Farming.  

“I grew up on a sheep farm in Norfolk with my parents and brother but after finishing college in 2012 and briefly working in hospitality, I went to work in the French alps for the winter of 2013/14 in Courchevel. I then lived and worked in the Australian Outback for just over two years. “ 

“I spent most of my time on horseback or a motorbike, mustering and processing cattle. Extremely remote living and a hard-working environment, but a life-changing experience which made me the person I am and reignited my interest in cattle and so I applied for Harper Adams through clearing when my visa expired in 2017.” 

The 27-year-old from Norfolk chose Harper Adams for a combination of reasons: The course’s great mix of practical agricultural experience and the scientific theory and the lecturers and staff seemed very professional and helpful. And based on the great reputation and the number of good reviews the university has. 

“After travelling for so long I was a bit nervous about being cooped up in one place for 3 years! But I enjoyed my course - particularly the Genetics module with Janet Roden and the Sustainable Animal Production and Advances in Animal Production science modules.” 

“My time at Harper was very socially challenging, but the university staff were there to support me but I have also met some wonderful people and friends, who I will keep in contact with forever,” says the ex-Polo Club president.  

Bradley cites coming second in National Polo Tournament at Novice Level with some good friends as one of his favourite experiences here at Harper, but nothing will beat achieving a first-class degree for the keen rugby and polo player. 

“After some fairly challenging years achieving the degree classification I did, was very rewarding and made it all seem worthwhile. The hard work paid off!” 

Bradley is now working as a Business Development Manager with Blade farming, and is looking forward to progressing in his career and putting what he learned at Harper into practice.  

“It is very challenging and rewarding, with a wonderful team of switched-on people, and I am really enjoying it. I hope to be successful in growing Blades business in the coming years!” 

To both new students and those already at Harper, Bradley gives one piece of advice: “Be yourself, be accepting and open-minded and positive and the right people will end up around you.”