Lucy Rowton-Lee

My RAU experience

I chose to study Rural Land Management as it covered a broad range of topical subjects necessary for a land-based career. The modules varied from agricultural law and valuation to estate business management and diversification, and all captured the contemporary issues occurring within the sector.

Being accredited to the RICS made it a great course to progress directly into the industry and work towards achieving the APC and becoming a chartered surveyor.

Every aspect of the course interested me and there were some fabulous trips and speakers to enhance our academic studies.

I enjoyed the opportunity to study and socialise with likeminded students and lecturers who I will continue to work alongside beyond my academic studies. The friendships I made whilst studying at the university will last a lifetime and I am really looking forward to continuing to meet and work with RAU alumni.

I also enjoyed the variation of societies and social events students can take part in. I took on the role of Vice-President of the Polo Society and enjoyed working alongside other students and committee of the club. I also enjoyed taking part in RAG week, as well and attending many balls, formal dinners and other social events.

What I gained from the RAU 

There have been some fantastic opportunities throughout my three years of study; numerous talks, field trips and networking events have supplemented my academic study.

A personal academic highlight for me, was graduating with First-Class Honours, which wouldn’t have been possible without the support and expertise of the lecturers at the RAU. I was thrilled that my hard work over the three years paid off by securing a top grade. 

I completed two work placements whilst at the RAU: one with Savills on their 2022 Summer Placement Scheme and one with Ceres Rural.  These were both such valuable opportunities for me to put the theoretical knowledge I had learnt into practice, as well as consolidating my understanding of the industry by working alongside Rural Surveyors and Agricultural Consultants. Not only did I gain practical experience, but it was through my placement with Savills that I secured a graduate job with the team.

I am delighted I chose Rural Land Management at the RAU and have met friends for life who I will continue to work alongside throughout my career. As head of department, William Leschallas has consistently supported me throughout my time at the university, from my initial application to final graduation.  The course gave me a solid understanding of the theoretical knowledge I require to work professionally in the industry. The modules covered many of the diverse and dynamic aspects of Land Management which has allowed me to consider the complexity of rural estates. My academic studies allowed me to consolidate my communication skills which I have found to be especially important when working with clients and colleagues.

Completing my dissertation allowed me to independently research and evaluate the impacts of Carbon Net Zero on the management of rural estates. Having this knowledge and understanding of the complex issues surrounding net zero strategies has allowed me to contribute towards climate positive business decisions.

I believe that Rural Land Management prepares you for so many aspects of the rural industry and can lead to so many varied career opportunities.  Following from my summer placement with Savills, I secured a graduate job as a Rural Surveyor. I started at Savills shortly after finishing my dissertation in June 2023. I am working on some fantastic rural estates and have really enjoyed a smooth transition from the RAU to beginning my career with Savills.