Student Soundbites

"I enrolled at Merrist Wood as a mature student to study the Animal Management FdSc as a part-time student. I have always wanted to work in conservation and thought it was time I did something about it. At Merrist Wood I studied a sustainable development module and realised its importance for the conservation of all life on Earth. As part of my work placement I travelled to South Africa and saw sustainable conservation in action, which was a fantastic experience.

My personal tutor at Merrist Wood has been truly inspirational and my whole experience at college has given me the confidence to continue my studies, enrolling on a top-up degree course starting this September. With these qualifications I am optimistic that I can finally work in an area that really interests me."

"After spending nine months travelling with my wildlife enthusiastic husband-to-be, I decided that I wanted to work in the animal care industry. Merrist Wood offered me the opportunity to learn at a local college. The Animal Behaviour and Welfare FdSc contains a wide range of interesting and industrially relevant material and the enthusiasm of the tutors cannot help but rub off on you. The different learning and assessment techniques used throughout the course, along with the five weeks set aside for work experience each year, will be invaluable for gaining a career in this industry.

I was lucky enough to be able to complete all of my work experience at Chessington Zoo which has provided me with a crucial foot in the door of the zoo industry where I one day hope to work."

“At 26 I was worried that I had left it too late to go back into education but when I looked at the Merrist Wood website my mind was put at ease, as it seemed very welcoming to mature students.  After looking round the campus, seeing the excellent facilities and meeting the staff I decided to apply for the Equine Management HND.  The course exceeded my expectations. The quality of teaching, wide variety of horses and facilities are second to none.

The work experience modules definitely helped me focus on my future career and I made some very valuable contacts within the racing industry. This helped me no end when I was looking for work after completing my course. I am sure that having completed the course and achieving good grades helped me get my current job in the Arabian Racing Organisation. I am certainly using knowledge gained from my studies every day."

"Merrist Wood College ignited my passion for garden design, plantsmanship and landscaping. The two year course was challenging and exciting, giving me access to a wealth of information, from the fantastic library to the outstanding variety of speakers the College attracts. My resounding memory however is of the generosity of the tutors, their understanding of garden design and their devotion to the students, which is second to none.

I left Merrist Wood armed with all that I needed to find my place in the industry and with the will and desire to succeed. I now work as the sole designer for Bloomin' Marvellous Landscapes in Kingston and I couldn't be happier. I would highly recommend Merrist Wood to anyone serious about a career in garden design."

“I have always been sure that I wanted to pursue a career in the golf industry.  When I realised that Merrist Wood offered a course that allowed me to develop my playing skills and learn industry specific business theories, I decided to apply.  I found the depth of study really interesting on modules such as biomechanics and applied coaching; this really helped to improve my understanding of the golf swing. The final top up year concentrated more on business theories and the dissertation.  Since graduating, I have travelled to China where I am now working in the golf operations department of Mission Hills. The skills and experience I have acquired throughout 10 years of playing, studying and enjoying golf have benefited me greatly in China; I just wish I spoke Chinese!