Daniella Sowden

My RAU experience

I studied Agriculture at college and wanted a degree which would allow me to work in the agricultural industry, with the aim of becoming a land agent.  Throughout the course we were lucky to have many guest lecturers from the industry, who were able to pass on their knowledge and were great examples of the varied career options available with a land management degree. Guest speakers offered fantastic opportunities for networking and were always available to answer our questions.  

When I first came to the university, I chose to study Real Estate as I wanted a balance between rural and property studies. However, at the end of my first year I wanted a more rural focus, so I spoke to my course manager who organised my smooth transition to Rural Land Management.

I love the community atmosphere at the RAU, due to its size, everybody knows everyone, something which makes the RAU unique. The social life at the RAU is very good.

What I gained from the RAU 

For my work placement I worked at Frontier Agriculture grain sampling during harvest, here I gained great knowledge of UK grower requirements, Tascc requirements and post-harvest grain sales.  Due to the networking opportunities which the course provides, my confidence in public speaking and meeting new people has increased so I now feel confident to enter the professional world.

I am now studying towards my PGCE where I will work as a Prep School Teacher with my specialist subject being Geography.

To any prospective students considering this course or similar, I would say do it!  You’ll enjoy the course as there are many different topics covered from Land and Property Law to Forestry and estate management, The course opens many opportunities within agriculture and the property industry, and once you have a degree many more employment opportunities are made available, even if you decide to go into another industry post-graduation.  Most of the lecturers are very supportive and will offer career advice and learning support during and after your studies.