Hanna’s animal management journey

Hanna is currently studying the foundation degree in animal management and zoology and plans to continue her studies to gain the full degree.

“I have always had a passion for animals and biology but also art. I then decided to work with animals, doing many courses and volunteer work. Before enrolling at Capel Manor College,  I lived in Africa and worked in a wildlife rescue centre. When I moved to London I became a Vet Nurse Assistant for a charity.

I chose Capel Manor College as I was excited about the modules offered and that I would have many opportunities to work practically with animals. After I had done more research into FdSc Animal Management and Zoology, I also found that the working hours and structure suited my lifestyle. Obviously, you can never tell how it will be in reality, but I just had a good, positive feeling about it and the thought of studying at the College excited me. 

I honestly feel privileged to be able to study such a unique course and I have gained confidence in my abilities. The most amazing thing is that I surprise myself with what I can achieve. The individual support we get from our tutors, the hands-on experiences and the atmosphere between the tutors and students greatly benefits from the small numbers of students registered each year at the College. I love that we are learning and being challenged but without unnecessary conditions often found in other universities.”

Where are they now?

After five years studying animal management with us, Cara has continued to thrive in higher education and the animal science sector. 

Following her time at our College she progressed to her first-choice university to study BSc (Hons) Zoo Biology, a course selected to broaden the biology and animal science knowledge she first developed at Capel Manor College. Throughout her degree, Cara explored diverse areas from physiology to animal behaviour, and the fascinating crossover of behavioural physiology. 

As part of her four-year programme, Cara completed an exciting placement year that took her around the world. She spent three months at a wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre in Ecuador followed by six months at the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna contributing to sector research. 

Returning to the UK for her final year, Cara graduated with first-class honours, as well as several prestigious awards recognising her academic excellence and dedication to student leadership. 

Her success has continued beyond her undergraduate degree. Cara has now been accepted to study an MSc in Clinical Animal Behaviour at one of the UK’s leading institutions in this field. Alongside her postgraduate studies, she is working remotely with her research team in Vienna, conducting data analysis and contributing to multiple scientific publications. 

Cara says that Capel Manor College helped shape the confident, motivated person she is today, supporting her personal development as much as her academic journey. Her long-term dream remains to work in animal behaviour and eventually become a team leader in a canine behavioural team with a charity such as Dogs Trust, RSPCA or Battersea, before moving on to a career in education, inspiring others just as she was inspired.