FOUNDATION DEGREE IN ZOO HUSBANDRY AND MANAGEMENT
Lucy Bennett cited the friendly and supportive staff as playing a key role in her choosing to study at Hadlow College, a decision that would lead to a complete career change for her.
Having previously worked in the NHS, Lucy is now part of the Animal Presentations Team at Chessington World of Adventures!
Lucy tells us about her time at Hadlow, which she describes the best two of her life so far.
Why did you choose Hadlow College?
I originally wanted to do an NVQ but was contacted by staff to say they thought a Degree would be better for me, the staff member was so nice and supportive that I chose Hadlow!
What would you say were the best three things about studying at Hadlow College?
My coursemates, the Animal Management Unit and the work experience opportunities.
If you studied / or studying for career purposes, how has Hadlow College helped your career?
It lead to a complete career change from the NHS to Chessington.
Where do you now work and what's next for you?
I currently work in the Animal Presentations Team at Chessington World of Adventures University. Next I will be training my first behaviour with the sea lions and possibly coming back to Hadlow for a third year!
Would you recommend studying at the College and why?
I woud recommend it due to the work experience opportunities and also Hadlow's extensive grounds where you can go take part in field research like recording native species and finding native plants. The Animal Management Unit also has an extensive range of animals from domestic to exotic which covers your bases for most animal jobs.
Any other anecdotes/information you would like to share with us?
In our second year we were able to choose between two modules, Native Species or Zoo Horticulture. Despite having to choose one the College made it so that anyone interested in both was able to attend each module!
Describe your whole college experience and how it has enabled you to progress.
The whole experience was the best two years of my life so far, I made great friends, learned from such experienced people and did some great practical research. Only because of Hadlow have I been able to get into the role I’m currently in as a Zoo Keeper, the Animal Management JUnit really took us and gave us skills that work placements were really looking for!
What would be the piece of advice you would give to someone thinking of coming to college or specifically coming to Hadlow?
Go for it! Take a chance on yourself!
Lucy Bennett studied a Foundation Degree in Zoo Husbandry and Animal Management. To find out more visit the University Centre page of the College website.