For third-year Bachelor of Rural Science student Tiffany Tarrant, her love of agriculture can be traced back to her early years spent riding in the tractor with her pop, accompanying her dad for truck drives around the paddocks of their family farm, and gardening with her mum, nan and grandma.
Almost two decades later, she’s turning her childhood memories into a career.
“I have always had so many questions and completing a Bachelor of Rural Science has helped me answer and understand these curiosities and the whole agricultural system,” she says.
With a love of science and a keen curiosity for the agricultural industry, UNE was the obvious choice for Tiffany when it came time to decide where to study.
“UNE is highly recognised for its Rural Science course within the agricultural industry, and I liked how it was a broad course that taught skills that would allow me to step into various agricultural jobs and industries upon completion.”
Despite spending the first two years of her degree online, Tiffany has not hesitated to immerse herself in the full UNE experience.
While studying, she’s worked with the UNE Growing Regional & Agricultural Students in Science (GRASS) team to help coordinate the 2021 GRASS Scholarship Program, and has been a key member of the Rural Science Undergraduate Society (RSUS) Committee. She’s also been able to put what she’s learning in her degree into practice through a role with the UNE Precision Agricultural Research Team.
Immerse yourself into every opportunity you can and expand your network connections, as you never know where an opportunity will take you.
“Working for the UNE Precision Agricultural Research Team has enhanced my understanding of data collection and how the data is used to provide farmers with information that helps them with their pasture management,” she says.
“My experience working with GRASS and RSUS has allowed me to become more confident when talking with industry professionals and has developed my communication skills. It’s also allowed me to learn how to manage my time effectively as I have had to balance studying full time and casual work.
“These opportunities that UNE has given me have opened the doors for me to expand my network connections and to meet numerous new people, which will be valuable when looking for work when I finish my degree.”
As the finish line edges closer, Tiffany plans to pursue a career in agronomy. With an abundance of experience already under her belt, she has some handy advice for others wanting to make the most out of their time at UNE.
“Immerse yourself into every opportunity you can and expand your network connections, as you never know where an opportunity will take you,” she says.
“Also, never be afraid to speak up when you need help or when you want to ask a question.”
If you are interested in joining a student committee, visit the Clubs and Societies page on the UNE Life website.
