My RAU experience

The RAU’s reputation for agriculture and rural enterprise stood out, especially its specialist focus on sustainability and innovation. The MSc in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security felt like the perfect fit, bridging my business background with my hunger in agriculture. I wanted a course that not only deepened my academic knowledge but also connected me with industry leaders, research projects, and real-world challenges.

I found the course engaging, applied, and thought-provoking. I particularly enjoyed the balance of classroom learning with live research and industry projects, which made everything feel current and relevant. My highlights have been collaborating with experts and practitioners through workshops and research projects; learning alongside peers from diverse backgrounds, united by a shared passion for the countryside; and supportive lecturers who were active within the sector, making learning highly applied and relevant.

Balancing my studies with wider career goals was sometimes challenging. The University was very supportive, I could tailor assignments to my interests, and staff (especially the amazing Dr Lisa Morgans) encouraged me to work in ways that suited my style. That flexibility and trust made a huge difference.

 

What I gained from the RAU 

My ambition is to help shape the future of British farming, making it more sustainable, resilient, and economically viable. The MSc gave me both the technical understanding and policy awareness to pursue that path. Through the course, I presented research, engaged with farming organisations, and built networks such as the AFN, all of which clarified the role I want to play in the sector.

I have just started as an Agricultural Policy Graduate at the NFU, a role that will allow me to work across policy, trade, external affairs, and regional teams. The MSc prepared me brilliantly, giving me the technical knowledge and communication skills to bridge research, farming practice, and policy.