Florence Fraisse

Florence Fraisse graduated from Aber with a degree in Equine Science in 2001 and subsequently undertook a Postgraduate Diploma.  In addition to her successful career, Florence also acts as Aber's unofficial ambassador in France and she is willing to assist any Aber alumnus with locating and/or doing business there. Contact her at france@alumni.aber.ac.uk

What do you remember most about your time at Aber?

The location of Aberystwyth was excellent being so close to the sea - walks by the sea-side are indelible memories.  Also, I studied on the Llanbadarn campus (the agricultural campus) so was even closer to the countryside.   It was a really relaxing and peaceful place.  The singing of the birds in the shiny mornings: the ideal conditions for a good start to the day.  Llanbadarn is located on a hill and cycling up kept me fit.

Joining student clubs and societies was a wonderful socialising experience - the rugby club and the voluntary student union for my part.  I also remember at the end of the year the sports tournament that involved all the sport clubs of Aber - very challenging.

What are you doing now career-wise and how has your Aberystwyth Degree helped?

I studied animal science at Aber (BSc Hons) (and a PgD in animal health).  I then went to New  Zealand to carry out some basic research on chickens and horses before returning to France.  Since that time, I have  been working for a veterinary pharmaceutical company within the R&D department.  The degree obtained at Aber is much more specialised in all aspects of animal science than I would have received with a diploma in France.  The alternating of theoretical and practical classes provides you with a strong background of knowledge.  I obtained my current position because of this specialisation and my ability to speak English.

What advice would you have for a student doing your course now?

Enjoy your time in Aber!  The conditions are so excellent to help you succeed in your studies.  Manage your time properly and find the right middle ground between socialising and focusing on studies.  Choose the subjects that you are the most interested in, - motivation has such a influence on success.  Aber is fortunate enough to have a wonderful library on campus, where a wide range of journals and books is available, so make a friend out of it.