Will Matthews

My RAU experience

The environment at the RAU is truly special. Firstly, the campus is absolutely stunning, set in the pristine Cotswold countryside. There's something inspiring about being in a place rich in beauty and history. With the RAU's reputation and legacy, you can't help but feel connected to those who came before and aspire to make your own significant contributions.

The RAU provides all the necessary tools for success, but like any tools, they need to be used effectively. The small size of the campus and university fosters a close-knit and unique community. I often tell people that I've met more people here than during my undergraduate studies because the smaller community allows for deeper relationships. We're all in the same boat, and this sense of shared experience makes people more willing to help each other.

I’ve met many wonderful people from other agricultural universities, and I would never criticise those institutions—it's a testament to how amazing the people in the agricultural industry are. Those other universities undoubtedly produce some of the best farmers and skilled workers with fantastic ideas. However, where the RAU truly stands out is in its ability to produce the best leaders and innovators in agriculture.

What I gained from the RAU 

Coming from a non-agricultural background, the Ag Tech course was initially presented to me as an introductory and conversion course to agriculture, requiring no prior experience in the field. However, I found that the course modules not only provided the agricultural foundation I was seeking but also aligned perfectly with my background in business and my passion for entrepreneurship. This has enabled me to leverage my previous experience and apply it effectively within an agricultural context. This combination has given me the tools to make a meaningful impact in the sector.

I have set up my own business, ESG Farms, transforming office spaces into sustainable, thriving ecosystems with vertical farm installations. I chose to set my business up at The Growth Hub because of its strong ties to the University. The team there have been incredibly supportive, encouraging, and patient while I continue to explore vertical farming as an environmental, social, and governance initiative. My goal is to reimagine parts of our current agri-food system, fostering closer communities through shared activities (harvesting, gardening, and engagement workshops), increasing awareness of issues surrounding food, diet, and health, and instilling long-lasting habits for a more sustainable future.

The foundation that the RAU has provided me has been instrumental and will continue to support me as I progress. The university has also significantly boosted my confidence in myself and my abilities, knowing that support is available when needed and that constructive feedback is given when necessary. It's truly a blessing to know that the university and its staff are there to guide you on your journey. I just hope that my efforts will meet the expectations of the industry and contribute positively to the wider world.