Natasha
Bonnick

Why did you choose to study your course at NTU?

The course covers a range of different subject areas to provide a broad understanding of the current hot topics within the industry. Some assignments can be centred around your own interests which means the degree can be catered to an area you enjoy.

What do you enjoy most about your course?

Learning how we can better our traditional management of horses to improve welfare and performance. Additionally, the modules are industry relevant which sets students up well after graduation.

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

My most enjoyable modules have been biomechanics, optimising performance and advances in rider performance. As someone who competes with my own horses, I have enjoyed understanding how to enhance horse and rider performance whilst keeping welfare at the forefront.

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

The facilities and research equipment on the yard allows both theory and practical learning to take place. Having the opportunity to replicate studies has helped with understanding the purpose of research and how to conduct our own.

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

The campus always feels relaxed with multiple spaces to both study and socialise in between lectures. The Orangery is a place I find myself in every time I am on campus for a break from studying.

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

Ensure you have clothes for every weather as the campus is spread out.

Have you been involved in any placements, work experience or volunteering as part of your course? If so, what company did you do it for, what was your role/responsibilities and what did you achieve?

Within my time studying, I have worked as an intern on the equine unit. This has given me the opportunity to gain further work experience in an educational setting.

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

The course caters to anyone interested in horses, from those new to the industry, to competitive riders.

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

The course has provided me with various routes in which I could go down, from both the practical and theory elements. I would quite like to use the science element of my degree to work for a company focusing on improving performance and welfare of competition horses.