By Mackenzie Coopman | July 2024
My journey in primary industry education – A day in the life as an Agricultural Science student.
Although the following is specific to my degree at the University of Adelaide, it might serve as a useful example of what a tertiary education is like when learning about the primary industry. In talking to agriculture students from around Australia, I have been amazed at the diverse opportunities they have encountered. The career pathways in primary industry are well reflected in the range of day-to-day activities which a degree in agriculture offers.
My first year of university was focused on establishing a baseline of knowledge for later in the degree. First year biology and chemistry courses held at the central city campus allowed agriculture students to mix with students from a range of different science-based degrees. We spent one day a week at the Waite Campus or the farm-based Roseworthy Campus where we had more agriculture related subjects giving us a glimpse of what was to come. As a student without any agricultural background, it was good to ease into the content focused on farming practices. Luckily, it wasn’t too long before I was able to tell the difference between wheat and barley and finally understood how big a hectare is. These more agriculture-focused courses involve some really interesting and engaging experiences. In my first year I got to run an agricultural field trial, go on study tours around local agricultural businesses and even do practicals in animal handling. I never thought that I would get to tip a sheep and had no idea that it would be so fun!
In the second year of the degree there was an increased focus on the science behind food and fibre production. This included courses like microbiology, soil science, plant science, animal science, and even an agricultural business subject which was surprisingly interesting. The more science-based classes incorporate hands-on practicals in the lab, discussion-based workshops, and collaborative research assignments. In these courses, I learnt a lot about research methodology and common lab techniques like DNA extraction and microorganism identification. All useful skills for a career in research.
In the third and final year of the degree you start to specialise. In my degree, six of the eight subjects in the final year are electives, meaning that you get to choose what you want to focus on. I prefer the more theory-based subjects about business and trade. These are centred around lectures and rely on assignments, presentations and exams for assessment.
The overall idea is that the first year builds a foundation of knowledge, which is made more specific in the second year and is honed into specialised knowledge and expertise in the final year.
My advice for any tertiary student would be to get as involved as possible with potential employers. Once your name is out there and the opportunities start presenting themselves, it is easy to experience new things. Eventually, this helps with deciding how you might like to start your career. In Agriculture, industry organisations are very engaged and involved in helping students to transition between studying and entering the workforce. The food and fibre industry needs more skilled workers, and as a result, it is proactive in helping potential employees grow and develop professionally. At The University of Adelaide, the Adelaide University Agricultural Students Association runs events through the year and aims to build a cohesive cohort while also providing opportunities for industry to connect with students.
The following video is just an example of all the exciting things we get to do every day.