From passion for farming to a degree and a career

“SRUC gave me the opportunity to combine practical farming experience with academic study, helping me build the knowledge and confidence for a career in agriculture.”

Isla Crawford has spent her life surrounded by farming. Now graduating from SRUC Barony with a First-Class Honours degree in Agriculture, the 22-year-old is looking forward to beginning her career in the industry she has always been passionate about.

Growing up on her family’s beef and sheep farm, Isla developed a strong interest in agriculture from an early age. Alongside working on the family farm, she also gained valuable experience as a relief milker on a dairy farm, giving her insight into different sectors of the industry.

When it came to choosing where to study, SRUC Barony was the obvious choice.

She explained: “I chose to study at SRUC’s Barony Campus because having a working farm on site meant I could combine academic study with practical experience. I wanted to develop the knowledge and skills I needed for a career in agriculture while continuing to build on the experience I already had.”

Over the past four years, Isla has combined her passion for farming with academic learning, developing practical, technical and business skills that will support her throughout her career. Along the way, she has also built lasting friendships and made the most of the opportunities available both on and off campus.

She said: “The last four years have been a great experience. I’ve really enjoyed studying a subject I’m passionate about, making lifelong friends and gaining valuable practical and business skills.”

One of the highlights of Isla’s time at SRUC was the opportunity to visit a wide range of farms and agricultural businesses, giving her a broader understanding of the industry beyond her own farming background. She also enjoyed taking part in the annual Winter Fair and attending the fourth-year trip to Aberdeen, where students from across all SRUC campuses came together.

“Visiting different farms and businesses gave me a much wider perspective of the industry. I also really enjoyed taking part in the Winter Fair and meeting students from across SRUC during our trip to Aberdeen.”

As part of her studies, Isla also completed an internship in agricultural consultancy, giving her valuable insight into another area of the industry and helping shape her future ambitions.

Her first role after graduating will see her remain at SRUC. From September, Isla will take up a position as Teaching Associate, supporting teaching across agriculture.

She said: “I’m due to start a role at Barony campus as Teaching Associate with a particular focus on livestock production, forage production and farming systems. I’m looking forward to developing my experience and seeing where opportunities within the agricultural industry take me in the future.”

Looking back on her time at SRUC, Isla encourages prospective students to embrace every opportunity that comes their way.

She said: “Make the most of every opportunity. The course gives you a strong foundation of knowledge and skills that will benefit you throughout your career. Get involved and enjoy your time at SRUC.”

From growing up on a family farm to graduating with First Class Honours, Isla’s journey at SRUC has strengthened her practical expertise, broadened her understanding of the agricultural industry and prepared her for the next stage of her career.