Danny
Sedgwick

Why did you choose to study your course at NTU?

Knowing that I wanted to study Ecology there was already a limited number of institutions that offered it and when I visited Brackenhurst on an Open Day I just knew it was right for me! The size and peace of the place suited me completely. I have since found that the facilities and teaching staff are just as good as promised, if not better.

What do you enjoy most about your course?

I have most enjoyed the open class discussions talking about the latest trends in conservation, be this the ethicality of species re-introductions and rewilding or the complexities around land use change within cultural landscapes.

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

All the modules are very well structured, easy to follow and pitched at the right level depending on the year of study. All the modules have been enjoyable however my favourite so far has been Applied Habitat Management.

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

The facilities are second to none, there is a ready-made classroom in the form of the Brackenhurst Estate on the doorstep. I go for walks on the estate almost daily and use it as a space to decompress from the stress of lectures, assignments and day-to-day uni life.

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

The campus is great, it’s small but a tightknit community, once you’re in you’re in. In my spare time I am an active member of the Conservation Society and was Vice President during my second year.

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

You’ve got to embraces mud! Bring a pair of wellies as these will be essential for any Winter walks around the Estate.

Have you been involved in any placements, work experience or volunteering as part of your course? If so, what did you do and what did you achieve?

During one Summer in spent three weeks volunteering with the RSPB as a Visitor Experience Officer in North Wales. This was a great experience and helped my build my skills set.

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

The course is very well structured and has given me a greater appreciation and a more scientific understanding of the natural world/systems that I have always loved.

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

I would like to be involved in a landscape-scale conservation initiative working within a community. The course has given me a great understanding of the ecological principles that underpin the processes occurring within the wider landscape and an appreciation of how these connect together.

Any additional comments?

The classes are always great sizes, there is loads of lecturer-student contact time.