Alltech support for NI students

Posted 1 March 2014

Sponsorship from Alltech has helped three Northern Irish agriculture students to expand their horizons. 

Harper Adams University students David Boyd, 22, Jack Johnston, 19, both from Ballymena, and Lauren Johnston, 20, from Markethill, were selected thanks to the Harper Adams in Ireland association for past students, to receive financial awards from Alltech. 

Ex-Cambridge House Grammar School pupil David, who is due to complete his degree this year, found the money very useful when his sandwich year employment took him to the Netherlands for two months. “I found that my lack of Dutch language and unfamiliar customs made this experience quite challenging, but in true Harper spirit I embraced these challenges enthusiastically. This great opportunity enabled myself personal development well beyond what I expected,” he said. 

Lauren, a second year BSc (Hons) Agriculture with Animal Science student who previously attended Markethill High School and Banbridge Academy, added: “The Alltech scholarship, as well the Development Trust scholarship I received, have allowed me to think a bit bigger and realise the dream I’ve always had of going to New Zealand for placement.  

“The money I received last year was spent on a car, which has given me so much more freedom while studying in England. I now work at the Harper Adams Dairy, too, which is invaluable experience for my future.” Lauren is hoping to work in New Zealand, through Agriventure, next year, before returning to Harper Adams for her final year of study. 

Jack, a first year agriculture degree student and former pupil of Ballymena Academy, added: “I was thrilled to be awarded this scholarship and I would like to thank Alltech for their generosity. It will be of great benefit to me and my studies.”