Featured Student of the Month: Beki Davies

Posted 2 June 2014

A monthly special featuring a current student from Harper Adams University.

Second year Harper Adams University student, Beki Davies, uses her passion for cycling to explore the countryside.

20-year-old Beki studies BSc (Hons) Countryside and Environmental Management and has always enjoyed cycling, but took it up in earnest around seven years ago. It has given her the chance to explore new areas and go bird watching. 

Beki who lives on the Gower Peninsula in South Wales, said: “I love the freedom of cycling, it gives me the chance to escape because I can travel to wherever I want and explore the countryside.

“You can see so much more on a bike, it’s easier to stop and take in the view and makes accessing the countryside is much easier.

“I take my bike out whenever I can, especially on weekends and during the holidays, I really enjoy trying out new routes and discovering new places. It is also a great way to get close to wildlife because you can slow right down and don’t make too much noise.

She added: “I always make sure that I am wearing the correct safety gear to not only protect myself, but to also help other road users see me. It’s also important not to take risks as country roads can be unpredictable and you never know what is around the next corner. 

“The great thing about Harper Adams is that I can rent a bike pod on campus to keep my bike safe, which was really useful when I was in halls of residence last year.”

Through cycling, Beki has found she is able to get closer to wildlife, especially birds of prey which she has developed a passion for through being a member of the RSPB since she was nine-years-old.

Beki, who is a course representative for her degree course, added: “The countryside has always been a huge part of my life, I am a member of the RSPB and I am really lucky to be spending my placement year at RSPB Ynys Hir in mid Wales. 

“That is one of the main reasons why I chose Harper Adams – the fantastic placement year opportunity and the strong links with industry.

“I am also a member of the Christian Union and for the last year have been the Treasurer. We’ve doubled the numbers of members this year which is fantastic.
“We have meetings every Tuesday evening and, have regular socials and get involved with events with the churches in Newport.

“It’s just great being around like-minded individuals.”

Want to be featured student of the month? E-mail jheath@harper-adams.ac.uk