Cargill Meats Scholarship and Newport and District Agricultural Society Scholarship: Megan Edwards

Megan Edwards, BSc (Hons) Agriculture with Animal Science student, has been awarded a Cargill Meats Scholarship in association with British Poultry Council and a Newport and District Agricultural Society Scholarship at Harper Adams University.

Megan, 19, from Newport, Shropshire, said: “While at Harper, I’ve gained a strong interest within the poultry sector.

"Coming from a farming background, I’ve always sought work and experience in the agricultural industry.

“During previous years I’ve undertaken multiple jobs in my free time, including lambing over Easter, as well as getting involved with harvesting and relief milking and rearing calves at various local dairy farms. 

“This scholarship will help to fund my travelling to visit poultry units in different counties, attend conferences and events which will help to develop my understanding of the industry.”

While at Harper, Megan has taken on numerous role including being vice-chairman of the fieldsports society, RAG chairman for Harper Adams SU, and fundraising officer for the Anthony Nolan Harper Marrow group.

The second year student added: “During my placement year, which starts this July, I’ll undertake three months on a breeder farm, then three months in a hatchery, followed by three months working on a broiler farm.

“The final three months of my placement, will allow me to decide which part of the business I’d like to work in by either returning to one of the three previous areas or moving on to a different part of the sector.

“I aim to work in poultry after graduating, and constantly developing, learning and gaining further knowledge from those around me that are in the sector.”

On receiving the two scholarships, Megan said: “I’d like to thank both Newport & District Agricultural Society and Cargill Meats for the scholarships that have been awarded to me.

“It’s a great honour and privilege to be recognised in this way, as this will enable me to progress and move forward towards my future career.    

“I thoroughly look forward to working with Cargill Meats, as they are such a renowned, forward-thinking company.”