Jake Pickering

My RAU experience

I chose to study at the Royal Agricultural University because of two main reasons:

  1. The range of modules within the degree that I could choose from, which meant I studied exactly what interested me and what I thought would be relevant to any future career plans.
  2. The environment of the campus with its beautiful architecture, nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, made me feel very comfortable from my first visit.

Throughout my degree I found all of the lecturers extremely approachable, and they were always eager to share knowledge and opportunities. Opportunities such as debating in front of HRH The Princess Royal and speaking at the Oxford Farming Conference; it’s life events like those that really stand out to future employers and provide you with skills beyond the classroom.

For every yard of energy you give the Royal Agricultural University, you get back miles of opportunity.

What I gained from the RAU 

Before leaving Cirencester, as a result of the exposure the RAU had given me, I was approached by several companies with employment opportunities including the retailer J Sainsbury. I started as an Agricultural Graduate and worked in all corners of the UK, in many sectors of the agricultural industry, and referred back daily to my three years at the RAU and everything it taught me. I’ve now progressed to become a Poultry Buyer at J Sainsbury.

You’ll only ever get out of university what you put into it, but for every yard of energy you give the Royal Agricultural University, you’ll get back miles of opportunity.