Samantha
Brown

Why did you choose to study your course at NTU?

I was drawn to the course’s focus on sustainability opposed to just the current state of the industry.

What do you enjoy most about your course?

I enjoy learning about the different topics in much greater detail than at college.

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

I have enjoyed the livestock modules, particularly livestock production systems.

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

The library is very good, being dedicated to subject areas relevant to the courses on campus. There are lab facilities for practical sessions. I also like having a farm on campus, and with a manager who is very happy to take sessions talking to students about the farm.

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

Every week I go to a free yoga class based at Brackenhurst. I also am part of the equestrian club, where I ride with them and go out occasionally. Previously I have been part of the conservation society who organise day trips out.

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

Definitely bring wellies and wet weather gear, fieldtrips won’t be called off because of rain.

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?

Calf rearer with Kirbin Farming Ltd (New Zealand) from mid-July-late November 2023. I worked on a 1,000 cow dairy farm caring for the calves, and learnt how to: ear tag calves, improve my milking technique, use a refractometer to test colostrum quality, and identify fullness in calves.

Calf rearing with Evolution farming Ltd (Leicestershire) from early January -mid June 2024. I worked on a 1,000 cow dairy farm caring for the calves, and learnt how to: stomach tube calves, identify and treat common health problems in calves, set up electric fences, regain confidence reversing trailers, and operate a small skid steer vehicle.

If you completed a placement, would you recommend completing one and why?

Yes, I learnt a lot. I got the opportunity to develop personally, as well as developing transferable skills.

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

The campus is lovely and quiet. The course features fieldtrips which are very informative. I like the course content, it covers a wide range of topics and has the opportunity for specialising.

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

My plans are to work in agriculture, or travel some more. I have a strong knowledge base to build on, and have significantly developed my transferable skills – notably my confidence.