Gemma Hunt on placement

Gemma Hunt, from Birmingham, graduated in 2014 with a BSc (Hons) Veterinary Nursing and Practice Management. She spent her placement at Dovecote Veterinary Hospital. We interviewed her just before her final exams. 

Why did you choose your course?

The facilities, what the course was offering and the reputation

Tell us a little about what it involved.

Lessons, exams, practicals, farm trips, and hands-on learning.

What was best about it?

I love the uni’s ethos and felt very supported by staff in my learning.

What was the balance of practical and academic skills on your course?

More academic than practical, about 70:30.

Where did you spend placement?

Dovecote Veterinary Hospital, a veterinary hospital and referral centre.

A typical day on my placement would include...

All the usual nursing activities, monitored by surgeons or RVNs.

Why is placement good for your career opportunities?

It prepares you for work environment, gives you additional skills and lets you learn about yourself.

The best thing about my placement was ... ?

Developing my skills, and improving my nursing abilities as well as meeting a group of friends who inspire me to be the best I am.

What are your career plans? 

To graduate as a Registered Veterinary Nurse and specialise in physiotherapy and animal behaviour.

How do you think your course will help you with your career?

It has given me skills to walk straight into a veterinary practice.

What opportunities do you think are available to Harper Adams graduates?

Many as we have good relationships with many businesses and the placement year allows you to form career contacts.

What’s your opinion of the teaching at Harper Adams?

It is of a very high quality.

And the facilities?

Very good and always improving.

What have been the highlights of your time at uni?

The activities put on by the SU, especially the annual summer ball.