CAFRE Equine Graduate Internship success

Amy McGarvey graduated from CAFRE Enniskillen Campus with a BSc (Hons) in Equine Management in 2016. During her final year Amy was successful in gaining a graduate internship with Horse Sport Ireland for one year upon completing her degree.

About my internship with Horse Sport Ireland

I am based in the International Marketing Division. Our main role is to promote the Irish horse, Team Ireland Equestrian athletes and Irish events to the worldwide market. This involves travelling to international shows in order to reach our target audience.

My highlights from working in the industry so far?

This opportunity has provided me with a strong understanding of the global equestrian community and marketplace. I am continuously learning new skills.

How CAFRE helped to open up opportunities for you?

The internships available to CAFRE graduates are second to none! Having strong links with global leaders of equine businesses in both the sport horse and Thoroughbred sectors is invaluable.

Why you chose to study at CAFRE?

I chose to study at CAFRE because the courses and campus really appealed to me. Having the opportunity to work hands on with horses and “learn by doing” was the most enticing thing for me. The small community within Enniskillen Campus makes you feel like part of the team.

What makes CAFRE special?

The fact that it takes in all aspects of the equine industry - Thoroughbreds, sport horses and breeding. Being able to get firsthand experience from each sector allowed me to gain valuable experience and develop a broad understanding of equestrianism.

My hopes for the future?

I hope to open my own equestrian centre on the shores of my home county, Donegal. I believe equestrian tourism is a huge market which is relatively unexplored in our region of the country. Donegal offers miles of unspoilt beaches and beautiful scenery that need to be put on the map for the global market.

Top tips for future students

My top tip for students is to take every opportunity available to you while you are at college. Become involved in as much as you can; whether it’s helping out on the yards outside of your rota, becoming a part of the Student Council, or taking the college horses racing/showing. Each of these opportunities will provide you with key skills and experiences that the industry requires of you. Don’t wait for the opportunities to come to you, go out and grab them with both hands.

Equine Applications for 2017 entry

If you haven’t applied to study the BSc or FdSc in Equine Management for September 2017 entry, prior to the UCAS January deadline, there may still be vacancies on your chosen course. Our admissions team will be able to advise you whether late applications will be accepted, either via a new application on UCAS, or through UCAS Extra (where applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis). The final deadline for UCAS applications is 30 June 2017.

We can offer an excellent opportunity to begin your equine education after you complete your GCSE’s to study Horse Management at Level 3 or Horse Care at Level 2. With proven pathways onto higher education you can apply for these programs at our website.

Why not come to the campus, meet the staff, and see around our fantastic facilities. CAFRE Enniskillen Campus is having an open day on Saturday 1 April 2017 at 12 noon. For more information on our equine programs go onto our website or follow us on Facebook at DiscoverCAFRE. 

Notes to editors: 

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2. All media enquiries to DAERA Press Office, pressoffice.group@daera-ni.gov.uk or tel: 028 9052 4619.

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