“Seize all the opportunities,” says scholar

Posted 10 March 2017

Harper Forum’s chairman Chris Lane, 20, is encouraging fellow young people to join clubs, societies and local organisations to get their voices heard and to open doors to further opportunities.

In recognition of Chris’s dedication to his studies and rural communities, he has received two scholarships; a Jill Willows Scholarship and the Velcourt Arable Scholarship.

The BSc (Hons) Agriculture student from Peterborough, Northamptonshire, said: “Seize all the opportunities before you and more opportunities will come your way.

“I’ve got involved in a number of extra-curricular activities, and they have benefited me in so many ways.

“At home, I’m part of the local young farmers’ club. This is a great way for young people to make life-long friends. The Young Farmers’ Federation also supports charities and initiatives to help with the wellbeing of country folk.

“I’m the chairman of the Harper Adams Forum Society which invites prominent people from the industry to come and speak to students and staff on a weekly basis.

“One of my first roles in the society was to help organise an EU referendum debate, which more than 300 students and members of staff attended. I believe this was a great opportunity to help shape students’ views prior to the huge decision on June 23.

“Being part of the society has been a great pleasure, and I’ve gained confidence from the role by meeting so many new people.

“In the summer of 2016 I got the opportunity to go to China. I went with a group of fellow Harper students.

“We went to visit and get to know students at the Beijing Agricultural University who were coming to Harper for their final year of study in the autumn.

“Having the chance to visit China was brilliant. It’s a fascinating country with a historic and proud culture. We were treated very well and I hope the international students feel as welcome in England.”

On receiving his scholarships, Chris said: “I feel honored to have been given a Jill Willows Scholarship. Jill Willows was a lady who cared deeply about rural communities and the role young people can play within them."

Chris has also been awarded the Velcourt Arable Scholarship. This includes a 15 month work placement with the leading farming company of the UK and Europe. Chris will be working on an arable unit in Kent starting in July 2017.

Chris added: “I’m very proud to have been awarded the Velcourt Scholarship and excited by the opportunities that it’ll bring.

"Finally, I want to thank Harper Adams, The Jill Willows Scholarship Trust and Velcourt for their support.”