Featured student of the month: Kelly Hoodless

Posted 1 October 2014

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

Second year Harper Adams student, Kelly Hoodless, chose to study animal science instead of veterinary medicine due to the course’s varied career prospects and exciting opportunities.

The 20-year-old, from Market Rasen in Lincolnshire, is one of just eight students in her year group, and enrolled at the university in Shropshire following a gap year.

Kelly originally aspired to study veterinary medicine at an alternative institution, but changed direction after finding out about the animal science degree at Harper Adams.

Kelly, student representative for her course, said: “I realised that there were other options when it came to choosing a university and the course at Harper has much wider career prospects compared to traditional veterinary medicine.

“I’m really happy with my decision and want others to be aware that there are more animal-related courses available than traditional veterinary.

“My lectures are really interesting and useful, and will prove relevant to my future career. There's also many opportunities to work on the campus farm and enrol on extra training courses.”

Kelly, a member of Wragby YFC, wants to increase awareness of not just the animal science course, but of the other careers available for those with a passion for animals.

She added: “Try to open your mind and do plenty of research because there is so much more on offer.

“Veterinary science is a really big commitment as it’s a long course, and the entry grades are extremely high, so don’t feel worried if you don’t quite meet the requirements as you can still achieve a great career.”

Kelly’s course includes topics such as nutrition and production, genetics, and physiology; and includes both laboratory work and practical farm sessions.

Lectures are mixed with students from other animal-based courses, giving her the chance to network with a wide range of people.

She added: “Through my course, I’ve been able to attend a summer placement week with AB Agri working with their nutrition team, which I felt privileged to be selected for.

“The week gave me an incredible insight into the role of a nutritionist and a better understanding of the feed industry.

“It’s also helped to point me in the right direction for my placement year, to help me decide what type of experience I want.

“I’m now aiming towards a career in a nutrition-related role so hope to keep my options open and see what the rest of my course brings.”

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