Why I chose this degree programme

From a young age, I helped out on our dairy farm. That shaped my love for the agricultural world. I once dreamed of becoming a vet, but that proved difficult since I couldn’t enter pre-university education. Still, I knew one thing for sure: I wanted to keep working in the sector.

Many agricultural programmes focus on taking over the family farm, but that wasn’t my goal. And while some degrees focus on animals, they often don’t cover farm animals. Then I discovered Animal, Society and Business: a broad programme where you learn about animals, society and the business side of the sector.

What appealed to me was the wide scope of the degree. From nutrition and health to housing systems and product development, you get a bit of everything. You also learn how societal issues play a role in the sector and how to address them.

I’ll be honest: I was a bit worried about the English. I wasn’t very strong at it in secondary school. But it turned out fine. The support is excellent, and everyone is in the same boat. In fact, the international aspect of the degree is now opening doors for me.

Valuable experiences during the degree

What struck me immediately was the personal atmosphere at Van Hall Larenstein. The programme is small-scale, the lecturers are involved, and you quickly get to know students from other years. You’re assigned a mentor who helps you with both your personal and professional development.

What I really appreciated was the opportunity to specialise through projects in the sector that interests you. Whether you’re into cows, pigs, chickens, goats or sheep, you get the chance to explore your interests in depth. That really helps in finding your passion and shaping your specialisation.

Another highlight was working on projects for real clients. Sometimes you had to find them yourself, and other times they were arranged by the programme. In both cases, you learn how to conduct research, collaborate with companies and present your findings. It’s a fantastic way to build your network and prepare for the job market.

My most memorable experience? My internship and thesis in Canada. Thanks to a company presentation at school, I got in touch with a Canadian company. Not long after, I left for Guelph, Ontario, where I stayed for ten months. I worked in sales, supported clients and representatives, and wrote my thesis on farmers’ attitudes towards the dry period. It was a unique and enriching experience.

What the programme has given me

This degree helped me discover what suits me. I gained insight into various sectors, companies and roles, and also into myself: my strengths and the areas I can grow in.

I also built a valuable network, something I’m already benefiting from. The combination of theory, practical experience and personal support ensures that you’re well prepared for working life.

Since June 2024, I’ve been working remotely for the Canadian company where I did my internship. In the summer of 2025, I hope to move back to Canada to gain even more experience. Without this degree and the opportunities I had through Van Hall Larenstein that would never have been possible.

My advice to future students

Still unsure about your direction within the agricultural sector? Then this is the perfect programme. You gain broad knowledge, hands-on experience, and discover where your strengths lie along the way.

And don’t let the English hold you back! It might seem daunting at first, but you’ll receive great support and soon it becomes second nature. Plus, it increases your opportunities, even beyond the Netherlands.

In this degree, you’re not just a number. The lecturers know who you are, think along with you, and want you to grow, both as a student and as a person.

Animal Husbandry Velp

Information about the Animal Husbandry programme in Velp can be found on the pages of the two programmes:

• Animals, Society and Business
• Equine Sports and Business