Award success rounds off four years at Harper Adams for Megan Cole.

Megan Cole, the recipient of the Worshipful Company of Butchers’ Gary Baker Award, discusses her four years at Harper Adams and making the most of her final term.

“I wanted to study at Harper Adams after hearing about it from my friends at my local Young Farmers Club, but I could not narrow down which degree to study.

“I came to an Open Day and realised that the BSc (Hons) Agri-Business course was the degree for me…it was so diverse and would provide me with endless opportunities and transferrable skills,” says the 23-year-old.

Megan, who is from Church Stretton, Shropshire, would recommend Harper’s Agri-Business course to anyone, regardless of experience.

“The first year gives you the foundation knowledge of each farming sector, so if you haven’t come from an agricultural background it doesn’t matter, you won’t be behind at all, as we all start at the same point.”

Megan adds that: “Harper is a great learning environment, you can bounce ideas off one another in and out of the classroom, and the lecturers are extremely helpful and only have your best interests in mind.”

“My favourite module was Animal Product Processing, because I could relate it back to my placement year.”

For her placement year the avid horse-rider was part of the technical department for ABP Ellesmere.

“I started as a quality analyst and followed the production line over the year. I conducted trials to extend beef mince shelf life and also tested quality attributes that effect customer buying decisions.

“It was something different every day... I loved it. I cannot wait to go back and start their graduate programme once I finish my studies.”

“Before then I am trying to make the most of my remaining time at Harper by visiting a different society each week and have recently enjoyed my first Lionesses social,” says the former Shooting Club member.

Due to her knowledge and passion of the meat industry Megan was awarded the Gary Baker Award – an award given to an Harper student wanting to work in the British Meat and Livestock Industry.

“It was a tough interview, and I was and ecstatic that I was chosen and have decided to use the prize money for my long-term professional development.

“My four years at Harper has been crazy and sometimes challenging…but I’ve made life long friends, unforgettable memories and I would not change it for the world!”

An Open Day could help you confirm your choice of degree, so, book your place now.