For Ellie, working with animals had always been something she wanted to do. What she wasn’t sure about was exactly how to turn that passion into a career.
After studying BSc (Hons) Animal Management, Ecology & Conservation at University Centre Somerset (UCS), Ellie is now working as an Animal Keeper at Animal Farm Adventure Park, where every day brings something different.
Finding the right path
Ellie always knew that she wanted to work with animals, but choosing the right career wasn’t quite as straightforward.
Studying Animal Management, Ecology & Conservation at UCS gave Ellie the opportunity to explore different areas of the industry through a range of subjects and work placements.
These experiences helped her discover what she enjoyed, understand the different career opportunities available and ultimately choose the path she wanted to pursue.
I always wanted to work with animals but wasn’t sure how.
For Ellie, the practical experience she gained alongside her studies was an important part of finding her direction. Being able to gain hands-on experience and explore different aspects of animal management helped her make an informed decision about the career she wanted after graduating.
Every day is different
Today, Ellie works as an Animal Keeper at Animal Farm, caring for animals as part of her day-to-day role.
And when Ellie says every day is different, she means it.
From daily feeds and routine animal care to unexpected moments, her job can bring something completely new each day.
Every day is different in my job – one day I came into work and the next thing I know I’m helping a llama give birth.
Doing what she loves
For Ellie, one of the biggest highlights of graduating is being able to come to work and do something she genuinely enjoys.
Just being able to come into work and do what I love is the reason I’m so glad for choosing my degree at UCS – I always end my day thinking ‘this is great!’
Her experience shows how exploring different subjects and gaining practical experience can help you discover not just what you’re interested in, but where you want that interest to take you.
From knowing she wanted to work with animals, to gaining the experience and confidence to choose her career, Ellie has turned that ambition into reality.
Ellie’s advice
Looking back on her time at UCS and her journey into the industry, Ellie’s advice to anyone considering studying Animal Management is simple:
Just go for it!
For anyone who knows they want to work with animals but isn’t quite sure where to start, Ellie’s experience shows that you don’t need to have your entire career mapped out before you begin.
Sometimes, gaining experience, trying different things and discovering what you enjoy can help you find the right path.
Find out more about Animal Management at UCS
https://www.somerset.ac.uk/study/subject-areas/animal-management/