For many students, the route to university isn’t always straightforward – and for Everett Mariess, that was the case.
Originally from Guernsey, Everett’s A-level studies were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, turning what was meant to be a gap year into working across a range of roles – from front-of-house positions and art galleries to compliance administration.
At 22, ready for a new challenge and inspired to pursue his passion for the natural world, Everett applied to study BSc (Hons) Zoology with Entomology with us – and the rest is history.
Here, he shares his story in this Q&A.
I’m from the Channel Island of Guernsey, so I’m lucky to have grown up surrounded by nature, in a small but supportive community. These were things that Harper Adams seemed to have in common with where I’m from, which I didn’t realise were so important to me, and immediately made the place feel like home.
So, why did you choose Harper Adams, and our Zoology with Entomology course specifically?
I chose Harper as they are the only university in the UK which offers an undergraduate Entomology course. I was initially concerned, since this wasn’t a dedicated Entomology course, rather a route within a Zoology one, so I had some reservations.
However when looking deeper into it, the course content, dedicated entomology lab, and experienced lecturers cemented my decision. Now having finished my second year, I would say the ecological and anthropocentric context the Zoology element brings are essential, and if I’d had the choice knowing what I do now, I still would have chosen Zoology with Entomology over pure Entomology.
I never even went to visit before applying – my passion in Entomology left me unwilling to compromise, and everything else seemed to line up with my preferences perfectly.
Your passion for the subject is inspiring and is exactly what makes our students stand out! How have you found the course so far?
The course has been a great balance between theory and practical elements, but importantly, in most aspects it offers you choice to study the exact species you find interesting.
With Zoology being such a vast topic, I was concerned I would be spending too much time looking at mammals, but the option to specialise meant I rarely had to compromise and made completing assignments actually enjoyable.
The zoology course is made up of usually just over 30 students, so there’s always plenty of chance for discussion with the lecturers who are unbelievably knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and supportive.
What does the day-to-day of a Zoology with Entomology student look like?
Days vary greatly – some will have heavy lecturing and others will be next to none, which allows a good balance of work, assignments, and time off. There’s plenty to be done in your spare time around campus; I enjoy walking around the foot paths connecting campus to town, which offer plenty of nature and wildlife. The ecological society has also been a great chance to do some fun and worthwhile activities, where you can meet similar people, and take part in fairly relaxed socials like our woodland campfires.
As much as I was worried about it, the week long residential trip to Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve has been an absolute highlight of the course so far. It’s exactly what you would hope life as an ecologist would be like; a week out in nature surveying and researching. We were also lucky to be able to visit a nearby area where beavers had been reintroduced, speaking to the people involved with that project and the challenges they’ve faced.
Harper has offered me so many additional opportunities; by taking part in a STEM ambassador role, I was able to visit a number of fenlands and peat bogs as part of a campaign to increase public awareness of their critical role in climate change. As a result of its success, we have been accepted to present at the Power to the Peatlands conference in the Netherlands, which the university has sponsored us to attend!
I never thought that engaging in extra curricula would take me to the Netherlands, so if I could give any advice to people thinking of studying at Harper is; take every opportunity you are offered.
It sounds like you’ve had some fantastic experiences already in such a short space of time! Like many Harper students going into their third year, you’ll soon be heading on placement – where are you going?
Having learnt even more about the facilities and work being done in the Jean Jackson Entomology lab here at Harper, I am thrilled to be able to say I will be staying here to complete my placement year working in applied entomology is practically a dream come true.
We can’t wait to see what you get up to! Any final thoughts?
One thing I wish more people knew about was the Community Fridge project! Close dated items from nearby supermarkets are brought here multiple times a day and are completely free for students to take.
People also bring their own unwanted food or other items here; we even have a serial baker who leaves plenty of sweet treats for the community and regularly turns the un-claimed bananas into banana bread!
I think the whole concept really encompasses Harper; the environmental initiative to reduce food waste, while supporting students, and the community it has created.
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Posted 12 June
