Emma Salvoni
Emma studied Animal Behaviour, Welfare and Conservation and also completed her PGCE
What were you doing before coming to Wrexham University?
Prior to attending Wrexham University, I was working in a boarding kennels and caring for people’s dogs. I also started learning to train and handle many different types of dogs. I then took a break from work to be a Mum.
What attracted you to Wrexham University?
I had always grown up with animals and didn’t think working with animals would ever be a possibility. Wrexham was local to me and provided the Animal Studies course, so I thought, why not?!
What was the atmosphere like around campus?
Our course was taught on the Northop campus. It was a quiet campus so we got to know each other as a cohort really well. It had a very personal feel to it.
What did you enjoy most about your course?
I enjoyed challenging myself and learning new skills. I enjoyed meeting like-minded people who had an interest in animal welfare, behaviour and training.
What was the support like?
The tutors were an excellent support. A lot of our group had been out of education for a while so they provided a very holistic teaching experience.
How do you think you have benefited from studying at Wrexham University?
Wrexham provided an excellent foundation for continuing in my personal education. I completed the PGCE after my BSc (Hons) and have since completed my MSc in Clinical Animal Behaviour with Edinburgh University.
How did your time at Wrexham University prepare you for the world of work?
I was lucky enough to be working in the industry prior to starting at Wrexham. I completed an interesting placement as part of the work place module which did provide some networking opportunities for the future.
What have you done since graduating/what does your current job involve?
I have worked as a Police Dog Trainer specialising in Puppy Development, I currently direct for the UK International Search and Rescue Team, I also consult for organisations and supports specialist dog training around the world as well as teaching a range of subjects including learning and dog training and behaviour.
What have been your career highlights to date?
Being self-employed allows me a lot of flexibility. Some of my highlights include participating in televised demonstrations at Crufts, working with the UKISAR team and training Police, Border Force and other Governmental organisations in Mongolia as a consultant for the Zoological Society of London.
How did studying at Wrexham help you?
Completing my BSc Hons with Wrexham University built my confidence after a break in education. I was able to gain qualifications which have facilitated my current career and further opportunities.
Would you recommend undertaking a course with Wrexham University, and why?
Wrexham has a very personal feel. The staff are very knowledgeable in their subjects and I was able to learn from them and develop further passion in my line of work. I wasn’t sure that HE was for me before I started the course but I felt at home very quickly.
To find out more about our Animal Behaviour degree, visit one of our upcoming open days
