26th July 2016
Jemma initially joined South Devon College in 2009 to study the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management, and was awarded with Distinction in 2011. Following this, Jemma spent some time working for the Mare and Foal Sanctuary as well as the Devon Birds of Prey Centre, throughout this period Jemma kept in good contact with her lecturers at the College and expressed a desire to continue to develop academically. This desire resulted in her coming back to the College to enrol on the Foundation Degree in Animal Science.
After graduating the Foundation Degree with Distinction, Jemma progressed to Plymouth University to complete the BSc (Hons) Animal Conservation Science programme. She continued to excel and is due to graduate with a First Class Honours Degree this September.
In 2015, Plymouth University launched the Sustainability Student Research Prize to celebrate the breadth and standard of undergraduate sustainability research at Plymouth University. Jemma was awarded with the Sustainable Earth Institute award for her undergraduate research project on ‘The relationship between life-history and risk of extinction for Canadian mammals’. The results of her study suggests that conserving species’ environments and improving their stability could be an important prevention management tool to reduce anymore future mammalian extinctions.
Jemma said: “The Animal Science Foundation Degree at the University Centre, South Devon College not only prepared me for my final year at Plymouth University, it also provided me with the opportunity to learn new practical skills that have opened many doors towards my future career. The lecturers at South Devon College University Centre provided outstanding support and guidance throughout my studies. They also worked hard to ensure the transition to Plymouth University was as smooth as possible. Studying at South Devon College has been an unforgettable experience; I met some wonderful and inspiring people. I have been presented with opportunities which have enabled me to gain valuable experience within the animal sector.”
Stuart Collier, Animal Care Lecturer said: “Jemma is a keen student who has always demonstrated a passion for the natural world and a desire to work with animals. Jemma has a natural ability to work with animals and has already achieved great things. As a team we are proud of her achievements and know that she will go far within the industry. It has been an absolute pleasure working with her and I’m sure we will continue to support her and work with her in the future.”
Jemma now hopes to gain further experience in Conservation. She is currently helping an organisation design conservation projects in different countries. The organisation aims to show that every person can make a difference and make a positive impact on the world. Jemma aspires to be an Animal Conservationist, working to protect the environment and species within it.