My RAU experience

I choose to study Agriculture at the RAU because of its strong reputation for combining academic excellence with hands-on, practical experience. The smaller class sizes also meant I could build close relationships with lecturers who have real industry expertise.

I really enjoy the sense of community here. Everyone—from staff to students—is passionate about the land-based industries, and there’s a real feeling that we’re all working toward the same goals. The campus environment is also beautiful and inspiring.

A real highlight for me has been taking part in all the field trips — I’ve loved every one of them! They’re such a great way to see how what we learn in class applies in real-world situations, and they’ve really broadened my understanding of the industry. I’ve also really appreciated the support from the Enterprise team, who do an amazing job helping us to shape our future careers and develop our professional skills. The careers fairs have been another highlight — they’re so helpful for meeting potential employers and exploring different opportunities within the sector.

 

What I gained from the RAU 

I carried out my work placement across two connected settings — The Great Zero-Dig Farm and the Catering Department at the Royal Agricultural University (RAU). Both experiences were part of my “Farm-to-Fork” concept, allowing me to understand the complete food system from production to consumption. I really enjoyed seeing the full “Farm-to-Fork” journey come to life — from growing fresh produce at Zero-Dig Farm to seeing it served in the RAU kitchen. It gave me a real sense of purpose and pride. I also loved interacting with guests and international students through the catering work, which helped me build confidence and communication skills.

My placement taught me so much — from sustainable farming practices and soil health management to teamwork, time management, and professionalism in a fast-paced hospitality environment. I learned the importance of communication, adaptability, and staying calm under pressure. Most importantly, I realised how closely farming and food service are connected, and this experience confirmed my passion for working in the food sector, especially in areas like food technology and sustainability.

My goal is to build a successful career in the food sector, and I’m particularly interested in becoming a Food Supply Chain Manager. This career path would allow me to combine my interest in food production with business management and logistics. The RAU is really helping me work towards this goal. The Enterprise team is incredibly supportive — they provide excellent career advice, networking opportunities, and workshops that help us prepare for the professional world. The lecturers are also very approachable and always willing to share their knowledge and guidance, which makes a big difference in helping us shape our future careers.

To any student thinking of studying here I would say “Go for it!” You’ll be supported every step of the way by dedicated lecturers who truly care about your progress and success. The RAU has an amazing sense of community — everyone knows each other, and there’s always someone willing to help or offer advice. It’s not just a place to study, but a place to grow personally and professionally, make lifelong friends, and build a strong foundation for your future career.