Alicia
Barrett

Why did you choose to study your course at NTU?

I have always had a love for animals since I was young but had a specific interest in exotic animals including big cats. At school I was always unsure of exactly what I wanted to do, but after stumbling across the Zoo Biology course at NTU, it met every expectation of what I would like to study. It is also the only university that I have come across that offers this specific course and giving students a chance to learn more hands-on with a concentration on zoo species.

What do you enjoy most about your course?

I enjoy the mix in modules and learning. For example, in our first year being able to go to the Animal Unit and learn how to handle new animals was very beneficial and engaging to me. The range of modules really opens your mind, from traditional biology subjects such as Physiology, to Anthrozoology, which allows you to think differently and challenge your mind.

How do you find your modules and what have you most enjoyed studying?

I have really enjoyed my modules, particularly the second and third year modules so far. The modules I’ve most enjoyed studying are Animal Training and Cognition, as I have a particular interest in Psychology, and Anthrozoology, as it opens your mind and challenges the way you think about human-animal interaction.

What do you think about the facilities available on your course and what do you use the most?

The Animal Unit has been a great facility we have been able to use and really connects you from what you are learning in class to real life. I have used the library and the staff that help with academic skills as it can be a big learning curve learning what the university expects from assignments, so I found this resource very helpful.

What do you think about Brackenhurst Campus? What do you get up to in your spare time?

As someone who is more of a countryside person rather than a city person, the Brackenhurst Campus worked perfectly for me. I like the vast walking space you can use and The Orangery which I go to often for breaks. It’s a nice space to be in for studying as every building has big open windows and the views around campus are amazing.

What is your top tip for someone considering studying/ living at Brackenhurst Campus?

My tip would be to not be afraid of joining societies, whether they be at Brack or in the City. Give them a go, as being a part of a society is a great way to meet new people with a similar interest to you outside your course at uni. Make the most of The Orangery, as it’s the perfect place to hang with friends, have a break or do uni work.

Why would you recommend your course to someone considering studying it?

This course is perfect for anyone with a passion for wildlife and wanting to make a change/impact in the world. It really makes you consider yourself as a person whilst studying the course and encourages the best out of you. The practical side, such as working at the Animal Unit or going on the South Africa field trip is a huge highlight and offers you the chance to put what you learn in class into action in real-life situations.

What are your plans for after the course and how do you feel your course has/ will help you to achieve that goal?

My plan is to work for McLaren Formula One Team within Partnerships and Sustainability. I have been selected as a candidate for their “60 Scholars” Programme, in which you had to be studying a STEM subject at university to apply for. Therefore, studying this course has allowed me to apply for and achieve this amazing opportunity. There are so many transferable skills that I can apply from my course to this line of work, and it has allowed me to combine my love for the environment with motorsport, and find the small crossover there is between the two.

Any additional comments:

I have loved being on a rural campus and learning in such a beautiful space. All the staff at Brackenhurst are so supportive and easy to talk to and you really feel a sense of community on campus.