From ARU to Wildlife Experience Presenter

Animal Management graduate Amye promotes the importance of animal welfare and conservation. She tell us more about her job as a wildlife presenter.

When I first joined ARU in Writtle to study Animal Management, I was incredibly shy and unsure of myself. I knew I loved animals and wanted to build a career around them, but I didn’t have a clear vision of what that would look like. University felt like a huge step outside of my comfort zone, but it turned out to be one of the most transformative experiences of my life.

Before university, I lacked confidence and often doubted by abilities. But my time at ARU changed that completely. The combination of supportive lecturers, hands-on learning and opportunities to push myself made me realise just how capable I was.

Whether it was speaking up in practical sessions, handling new species for the first time, or working in group projects, every experience helped me build confidence and resilience. I learned to step out of my comfort zone, to say 'yes' to opportunities that scare me a little, and to believe in my potential.

After graduation

By the time I graduated in May 2025, I was a completely different person – more self-assured and ready to take on whatever came next.

Like many graduates, I faced a challenging few months after finishing my degree. I applied for countless jobs and received just as many rejections. It was disheartening, especially after putting so much hard work into my studies.

Then I decided to take a more proactive approach. Instead of waiting for a vacancy to appear, I reached out directly to Living Things, a company that delivers interactive animal experiences and educational shows. I shared my enthusiasm for animal education and explained how my background in Animal Management had prepared me for the kind of work they do. After just one phone call, I was offered a job, and within a week I was starting my training.

I now work as a Wildlife Experience Presenter, a role I never imagined myself when I started university, but one that I’ve truly fallen in love with.

About my job

My job involves delivering one-hour educational sessions featuring ten different animals, where audiences of all ages can learn about correct handling, welfare, and fascinating facts about each species. Our events range from birthday parties and school visits to corporate events, charity days and even TV work, where we provide animal welfare consultations to ensure that animals are treated ethically and with respect during filming.

When I first started, the idea of presenting in front of groups would have terrified me. But now, I absolutely love it. Sharing my passion for animals, connecting with people, and helping others understand the importance of welfare and conservation is incredibly rewarding.

Everything I do in my role now is rooted in what I learned at ARU Writtle. The course gave me a strong foundation in animal welfare, behaviour, and management, as well as the communication skills to share that knowledge effectively. The practical, hands-on experiences gave me the confidence to handle and care for these animals safely and responsibly. It taught me that stepping outside your comfort zone is where real growth happens.

Top tips

If you’re currently studying Animal Management or a similar course, here are a few things I’ve learned along the way.

1. Don’t be afraid to reach out. Sometimes, the best opportunities come from taking initiative and contacting organisations directly.
2. Believe in yourself, even when it’s hard. Confidence doesn’t appear overnight; it grows each time you challenge yourself.
3. Use your time at university wisely. Try different things, volunteer and explore all aspects of the animal industry. You might discover a passion you never expected.
4. Be resilient. Rejections aren’t failures, they’re redirections that guide you to where you’re meant to be.
5. Keep learning. The animal industry is constantly evolving, so stay curious and keep developing your skills.

When I think back to they shy person who started at ARU Writtle, I can hardly believe how far I’ve come. I never imagined myself standing in front of audiences, confidently sharing my knowledge and enthusiasm for animals, but here I am, doing just that, and loving every minute of it.

ARU Writtle didn’t just teach me about animals; it taught me about myself. It gave me the courage to step into new experiences, the resilience to keep going, and the belief that I can succeed in ways I never thought possible.

I will forever be thankful for Writtle, for the education, the support, and the experiences that shaped me into the person I am today. It was more than just a university; it was the place that helped me find both my confidence and my path forward.

Amye studied Animal Management at ARU. You can find out more about our Animal and Veterinary courses at an Open Day.