First-year Agricultural Science student, James Harvey, has a message to interstate students considering enrolling in a course at the University of Tasmania.
“A lot of people find it very intimidating moving away from home. I know in Sydney there’s a strong culture to stay and commute into the city and go to university there.
“But I think it’s a very important experience to move away to a place like Tasmania.
“Be bold and take the leap and come down to Tassie and do what you love.”
“Everyone was really friendly and it’s nice to feel welcomed, especially when you’re considering moving to a new place,” he said.
“I liked the facilities, I got a tour of the TIA greenhouses and saw all the technology that was being used.
“All the study areas looked nice and it was just a walk down the hill from the student accommodation.”
He’s thrilled with the course so far.
“I’m really liking the course. It’s got enough content to keep you really engaged but it’s not overwhelming. The field trips have been great and all the teachers and presenters have been very engaging,” he said.
“I really like my fellow classmates too.
“The field trips have been my favourite part so far. You get to see how agricultural businesses really operate and get into the nitty gritty. Theory can only take you so far, so it’s been great to get out and about.”
First-year Bachelor of Agricultural Science students participate in many field trips throughout the year. So far students have already visited an orchard, a mixed farming enterprise and a livestock farm.
James has had an interest in studying Agricultural Science for several years.
“It’s definitely one of the more critical degrees where I can see myself having a better future. No matter what happens in the world, everyone’s always going to eat, so there’s always going to be a big demand for work in the industry,” he said.
“I’m definitely keen to do my honours and I’d like to look at growing Golden Kiwis in Tasmania. New Zealand has a monopoly over that industry, but Tasmania’s got a pretty similar climate to New Zealand,” James said.
It’s not just the Agricultural Science course he’s enjoying, but also the state itself.
“I fell in love with the place after just two visits,” he said.
“I like the fact you can drive anywhere, do day trips, go off and explore nature. And also it was a bit too hot for me up in Sydney as well.
“Hobart’s got a relaxed atmosphere which I think is just perfect for studying. And there’s a great study-life balance going on here as there’s lots of activities to do.
“If you’re considering Tasmania come down for a weekend and see if you like it. Get a tour of the facilities and that will help you make your mind up.
“Be bold and move away from home.”
The Bachelor of Agricultural Science is available for students to undertake face-to-face in both Hobart and Launceston.