Robert’s story
Robert studied the Access to Higher Education Diploma Veterinary Science (Level 3).
“My journey towards veterinary medicine started when I stumbled upon Capel Manor College through a Google search while exploring options for my career. After speaking to a careers officer who suggested investigating the CAVA Access to Higher Education Diploma, I discovered that the College offered this programme. I chose Capel Manor College because, as a mature student, I could not afford to waste any time. It seemed like the quickest and most effective path to get where I wanted to be.
Enrolling in the Access to Higher Education Diploma in Veterinary Science (Level 3) at the Enfield Campus was the perfect decision. Previously, I had worked in a managerial role at a global digital marketing agency, managing paid social media accounts for luxury fashion brands. However, my heart was leading me towards a different path—a career in veterinary medicine.
The course at Capel Manor College was specifically tailored to prospective veterinary students, which was exactly what I needed. Specific qualifications were required to get me into university and the course at the College offered me the chance to get that as quickly as possible. Not only that, but my tutors were also adults who knew why I was there and treated me with the respect and empathy that made me feel anything was possible, along every step of the way. I never felt like I was a kid at school. Instead, I felt like an adult who had a job to do which I think is an incredible differentiation for any mature student returning to school.
The best thing for me on my course was that it was specific to veterinary medicine. My university only needed biology and chemistry credits, so I could have easily completed a generic Bio-Chem course at any college, however the fact that my course was specifically tailored to prospective veterinary students meant that from day one, I was doing what I wanted to do. This kept me incredibly motivated as, in my eyes, I was already studying veterinary medicine.
The campus at Enfield was a beautiful and inspiring place. With arboriculture and forestry courses and animals freely roaming the grounds, including sheep, alpacas, horses, and donkeys, it felt like I was already immersed in the world of animal care. The attached mini zoo, where meerkats, porcupines, and wallabies resided for academic use, reinforced my determination to achieve the grades I needed.
My time at Capel Manor College instilled in me a confidence I never thought possible. The College encouraged us to make mistakes and ask questions without fear. It was the right place for me to thrive.
The result of my hard work and the support I received from Capel Manor College is evident—I am now studying Veterinary Medicine at the University of Surrey. During my time at the College, I was inspired by my tutor and his conservation work. Following his advice, I spent last summer in Cabo Verde working with Loggerhead Sea turtles, and my dream now is to embark on a veterinary career in conservation, specifically working with different species of bears. My goal is to contribute to saving and protecting polar bears.
Capel Manor College played an indispensable role in shaping my future. I owe my success to the College and its dedicated tutors who guided and supported me throughout my journey.
To anyone considering a career change or pursuing their passion in animal care, the most important thing to remember is that Capel Manor College can give you everything you need to get where you want to be, but the work is down to you. It is never too late to go back to the drawing board, and the College is that drawing board. Very few people get the answer right on their first go, so you can never be ashamed of trying again.”
