With the academic year coming to an end, 4th year graduating and 2nd year off on their placement, we hear more from Hannah Burgoyne and Ellis Parry about what life is like after graduating.
Hannah Burgoyne – Harper Adams Graduate
Since graduating from Harper in 2023, I embarked on a quest to find a job for the ski season. After a lengthy process of applying to various companies and roles, I was fortunate to secure a position with VIP Ski as a hotel host.
Before the season started, I stayed busy attending events like the Royal Welsh Show, where I received my Harper Cymru award, and reconnected with many friends from university and across the country.
During the summer, I worked most days and nights at a local pub and also milked cows on a nearby dairy farm, managing late nights and early mornings.
When winter arrived, I headed to Les Arcs, France to begin my ski season. This experience was incredibly rewarding – I learned new skills, improved my skiing, gained confidence, and enhanced my customer service abilities.
I also made some wonderful friends, and would highly recommend a ski season to anyone; it’s an experience you won’t regret.
Now that I’ve returned home, I am excited to apply the skills and experiences I’ve gained to build a successful career in the agriculture industry.
Ellis Parry – Harper Adams graduate
I was once told that when you go to Harper, you never really leave. Since my graduation, I fully appreciate the relatability and understanding shared amongst Harper Alumni of all ages.
Nine months on from officially graduating Harper Adams and there is much for us to reminisce about our four years in Newport.
Since graduating in September ’23, I have been fortunate enough to obtain the role of European Export Sales at McConnel in Ludlow, Shropshire. I was thrilled to get this role so soon after leaving, and it is an opportunity I am eager to succeed with.
I am a strong advocate for the industrial placement year which can provide an opportunity to gain valuable experiences in industries, or with companies, where you have little to no previous experience. I feel that this is vital to achieving the best possible employment prospects after graduation.