Skai is an international student from Latvia, and is studying BSc (Hons) in Human-Animal Interaction and her aim is to become an animal assisted therapist.
"What's interesting is to see the similarities that humans have with different species. We can learn so much from them, through their social structures, communication styles and, above all, the care that they often show each other. Moving abroad was a big step, but I was determined and excited because I knew this was something I had to do to achieve my dream job.
Being alone in a new country was a challenge at first. Hartpury has given me great support, helping me to find work, adjust to academic study and they’ve helped with my wellbeing too. Lots of the staff already know me, which makes me feel really valued.
It's amazing that Hartpury offers the opportunity to work with different species as part of the degree. As part of the course, I did a 40-hour internship in the Animal Collection. I’ve been getting hands on with exotic animals – meerkats, skunks and emus.
I really want to expand this field of work in my career, moving away from ‘pets in therapy’ into how we can work with more unique animals to help health and wellbeing."
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