My RAU experience

I chose to study at the RAU because I felt that on my open day I got a very friendly and welcoming feeling from the staff that I met. The chance to meet the course leader, see the accommodation and tour the campus really helped me imagine what studying at the RAU would be like, and I loved it. It felt big enough to grow but small enough to be an individual.

I enjoyed the smaller lecture sizes because it meant that all students had the chance to ask questions and receive detailed answers. The lecturers knew students by name, which made seminars feel more inclusive. When practicing real life questions for example methods of valuations, the lecturers would circle the room, asking each student if they understood and if they needed any help, which I felt provided me and other students with more confidence in exam-based conditions.

Although there were many highlights whilst on my course, my favourite would be the course specific rural land careers fair. I got the chance to meet many employers, which I ended up securing 2 jobs from. If the university had not put this special fair on, I doubt I would have had the chance to meet young people in my chosen profession, which helped me set my goals for the future.

 

What I gained from the RAU 

The RAU really supported me when I struggled to apply for graduate roles. I had a very outdated CV and a non-existent cover letter. My academic tutor was incredibly helpful, and due to his professional experience, I was able to refine my CV and secure every job I applied for. This kind of support is unique to the RAU experience, you just have to ask for it.

I secured a work placement Barrat, Redrow and David Wilson homes, working alongside a strategic land buyer. This helped me decide whether I wanted to go into commercial surveying or rural surveying. I am now a graduate rural surveyor for Stags.

To any students thinking of applying I would say that the RAU is a very unique university. The small and personal learning experiences encourage growth and keep you motivated to be your best self. At the RAU if you get stuck in, you will soon find yourself in the family like community, providing a wealth of diverse friendships. On your course try and sign up for every trip and opportunity, they are absolutely worth it!