My RAU experience

I was originally planning to study Biochemistry and had my first and second choice universities organised. However, after my final Chemistry A Level exam I decided it was not the right route for me. My father is a Rural Chartered Surveyor so I had a basic understanding of the role and it just so happened that the RAU were holding an undergraduate open day the following weekend, the rest you could say is history!  The recruitment staff were so helpful and with the right results I knew I had a place booked, with a room on campus, ready for me to come through Clearing. 

I chose to study Rural Land Management due to the vast array of topics that it covers including Law, Construction, Architecture, Agriculture, Valuation, Finance etc. I liked the fact that the course prepares you for a solid career where every day can be different, blending office and outdoor work.

Over the past three years there have been many highlights! The main highlight for me was visiting Downton Abbey, (also known as Highclere Castle). As a huge fan of the series, visiting the house and estate grounds was truly amazing (the estate management side of things was also very interesting). There have also been highlights in the lectures. One of these was during the Advanced Residential Agency module with guest speaker Jonathan Bramwell, an expert buying agent based in the Cotswolds. His insights into the luxury country property sector were engaging and left me considering a new career option.

As with any university, the third year is always the hardest with assignment hand-ins and dissertation writing. During this period the support available was a huge help both academically and emotionally. The support advisers were there to talk through any problem, the academic tutors and module leaders were aware of the intense workload and offered support and assistance with assignment issues. 

 

What I gained from the RAU 

For my course I needed to complete two weeks of work experience. The first week I spent with Savills giving me an insight into a national firm and how they operate. I spent the second week with Stags, a smaller regional firm, it was interesting to experience the differences between the two. 

In every possible way, without my degree I would not be ready for my graduate position. Rural land management is complex and the course covers a vast array of specialisms allowing you to discover what areas you would like to continue after graduation. It also teaches you professional and ethical values, preparing you for employment. I am excited to start a rural graduate position at the Perdix Partnership, based in Moreton-in-Marsh in September!

To any students thinking of joining the RAU I would say go for it! The location, campus, lecturers and students all contribute to a unique and fun university experience. You will make great friends and contacts for life.