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Royal Agricultural Society of England award winner says University opened doors he “never expected"

Posted Yesterday

An award-winning student set to begin a rural consultancy career after graduating from Harper Adams says his time at University opened doors he “never expected."

Tom York, from Ledsham near Chester, will graduate with a first-class BSc (Hons) Agribusiness Management degree next month – and has just been named one of the winners of the Student Awards for 2025.

The Society cited Tom’s academic excellence, practical contributions to agriculture, and dedication to mental health awareness as they announced his award.

During his time at University, Tom has raised thousands of pounds for the Farming Community Network, a charity which offers support for those in the farming community. He also devoted his final year research project to investigating how mental health education can be boosted in agricultural curricula.

Tom has now secured his first graduate role, which he hopes will be the start of a transformative career in the agri-food industry.

He said: “I've always had a passion for the countryside, rural communities, and the people who live and work within them!

“That’s what inspired me to study agriculture, because I wanted to make a positive impact in the sector; whether through business, sustainability, or supporting mental health in rural areas.”

Despite this drive to help inspire change, Tom wasn’t sure initially if University was for him – but he soon found his feet at a Harper Adams Open Day.

“Harper Adams stood out straight away,” he said. “It offered a close-knit community with shared values, hands-on learning, and strong industry links.

“It also felt like a place where I could grow not just academically, but personally too. I think the practical approach to learning, and the strong sense of purpose across campus, made Harper the perfect choice for me.

“From the moment I arrived, I was struck by how easy it was to settle in. Harper has a way of making you feel at home straight away.

“There was a real sense of community from day one; it felt like everyone was looking out for each other! Harper is so inviting, familiar, and reassuring, and I remember thinking, ‘This is where I’m meant to be.’”

While he might have found himself immediately at home at Harper Adams, Tom also believes the University has introduced him to a host of new experiences and opportunities.

He added: “My time at Harper Adams has opened doors I never expected!

“Thanks to the university’s strong industry connections, I had my placement year at Wilson Wraight, one of the UK’s leading rural consultancy firms.

“The experience was so rewarding, and after a great year with them, I was offered both a further scholarship and a full-time job to return to after graduation. This is exactly what Harper is all about, providing these great opportunities to help you shape your future career.”

Before he begins his new role, Tom is taking a few months to travel internationally, looking at other countries’ agricultural systems and how they operate – another opportunity which he credits to his time at Harper Adams.

He added: “This is only possible because of the scholarships I’ve been given, with the support of the Development Trust.

“I wouldn’t be able to do some of the incredible things I’ve got planned without these funds, so I’m really grateful to Harper for the opportunity.”

With awards, travel, a graduate role in his chosen sector and much more, Tom has certainly packed a lot into his time at University – and for anyone wishing to follow in his footsteps, he has some simple advice.

He said: “If you want to feel like more than just a number, choose Harper!

“This is a place where people know your name, where your lecturers want you to succeed, and where you become part of a genuinely supportive community.

“Whether it's through hands-on learning, friendships that last a lifetime, or the career opportunities that follow, Harper offers more than just a degree, it offers a whole experience.

“If you’re willing to get stuck in, you’ll leave here with far more than just qualifications.”

_{Tom's sory is among those featured in the SA¹ú¼Ê´«Ã½ We Are Here campaign – to see more, visit: harper.ac.uk/here}

_{For students still seeking a university place, the SA¹ú¼Ê´«Ã½ Admissions team can be contact on 0300 131 3950 or by visiting}