Are you an aspiring zookeeper or conservationist? Have you considered making your first step on that journey in a place right on your doorstep?
Erin and Kristian are two of our HND Animal Biology and Wildlife Conservation students who have chosen to get started on their wildest ambitions right here at EKC Canterbury College.
We caught up with them during one of their laboratory sessions to find out all about their course and why they enjoy it so much.
Erin, who is exploring her career options, is currently involved in some practical sessions that are teaching her all about animal biology.
Why did you choose to study this degree, and what do you like most about it?
“I love that this degree has so many different modules that are helping me to explore a wide range of careers. It’s so broad and I know that I’m covering the information I need, whatever I decide to do next.”
What exciting trips have you been on?
“We recently visited the Powell-Cotton Museum at Quex Park to explore their taxidermy collections and find out more about mammal specimens and skulls.
We also go to Wildwood regularly to learn about conservation and about a bear who has had brain surgery – a totally unique experience.
Workshops are a regular part of what we do. We recently had a parasite workshop where we got to see them up-close under the microscope!”
How do you feel about the support available at College?
“I feel really supported here. The lecturers are really supportive; they help us with our work, assignments and can answer any questions we might have about our subjects.
There’s a dedicated learning area for University Level students, so it’s great to have support that is so personalised to us and our studies!”
What are the benefits of studying a University-Level course at the College?
“It’s smaller and more personal. We’re taught in closer groups, so we get to interact more with our lecturers and have detailed conversations.
“We can ask more questions and get quicker support on assignments. It’s quieter and calmer as well!”
What advice would you give to someone considering this course?
“Apply as soon as possible and see what you like. I’ve benefited from having a smaller class. If you’re already studying at the college, you know the surroundings and the teachers are really supportive. Even if you try it and don’t like it, that’s fine, but just give it a go.”
“You should always apply early because you can secure your place without worrying about the course becoming oversubscribed! Applying as soon as you know what you want to do also gives you the opportunity to explore the course fully and make sure it’s the right path for you.”
Kristian loves the supportive community that they are in as part of the HND course, which has reignited their passion for Conservation. Having previously studied at a university, this course is a fresh start and a chance to gain a more personal experience.
Why did you choose a University Level course at the College?
“I went to university five years ago and I studied Ocean Science. Unfortunately, I didn’t enjoy it as I felt quite isolated in a large, busy environment. Here, I feel more part of a community.
“I appreciate the connection I have with the lecturers. At my previous University, I barely had a chance to talk to the lecturers, but here it feels more personal.
“I previously studied at the College doing a Level 3 course in Animal Management. I achieved a triple distinction which I was not expecting but I was very happy that I achieved it. Getting that grade was what made me know that I could do well if I studied here again.”
What practical experiences have stood out to you?
“We went to Wildwood and had a great opportunity to look at all the different animals there. A keeper showed us around and talked about the conservation efforts and what the animals were doing in the enclosures.”
What are the benefits of studying a University Level course at the College?
“It’s more close-knit. At a university, you might be in a lecture hall with 200 students in a lecture. Here, I feel a lot more comfortable and can talk to the people around me and ask for help in a smaller group.”
“I feel like I can ask our lecturers about anything, and they’ll give me an answer. If I have any problems, I feel comfortable telling them and getting adequate support.”
“Our lecturers have a lot of connections with people in the industry. If I was to talk to them and ask if I could make a connection with someone in a chosen area then I would be able to get that quite easily.”
What do you hope your course will lead to in the future?
“I hope this course prepares me for a job in conservation. I really want to work with seals. I previously studied Ocean Science at university.”
What advice would you give to someone considering this course?
“If the course is right for you and you want a degree in conservation, this is perfect. If you’re nervous about dealing with large groups of people in a big university setting, this smaller, more personal course would be a good fit.
“It would be good to apply early because if there’s a large amount of students who want to do the course you’ll seem quite eager.”
If you’ve been inspired by what you’ve heard and are passionate about caring for animals and protecting wildlife, explore our range of University Level courses today.
In Animal Care, we offer both HND and Top-up levels, including Animal Science, and Animal Biology and Wildlife Conservation.
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