BSc Equine Science
"I chose Hadlow College as it was local, meaning I did not have to move away and could continue working throughout the course in order to pay my bills!"
Rachel O'Sullivan - Technical Nutritionist & Nutrition Advisor, Saracen
I was slightly apprehensive about going back into education as a mature student, I was worried I would have forgotten how to study. But the course rekindled my love of learning and reading, especially scientific research. Despite being a more scientific degree, there was still a practical element to the course which I enjoyed, it wasn’t all classroom based. I also appreciated that as we were only a small group so there was a lot of discussion opportunities.
As part of my course I managed to get a work placement at Saracen, which led to a full time job when I finished my degree, I don’t feel this would have been possible without the support from my Hadlow College lecturer. My course allowed me to develop my nutritional, and scientific, knowledge that then provided the basis for my career.
My job role has changed significantly over the last 6 years, starting off as Nutrition and Marketing Assistant, and I am currently a Technical Nutritionist & Nutrition Advisor, responsible for managing formulations and labelling at head office, as well as offering nutrition advice to a variety of owners and riders, from happy hackers to Olympic athletes. My career highlights to date have been working with high level riders as part of their team. Knowing you have played a small part in the horse and rider’s success is one of the best parts of my job. I would also have to say passing my MSc in Equine Science, whilst also working full time, was an achievement I am very proud of.
If you are seeking a similar role I would recommend obtaining a degree and my advice would be to choose a college that has a work experience module, to allow you to gain additional experience that will set you apart from others when applying for a job.