We sat down with SMB College Group Alumnus and Commercial Assistant at The All England Jumping Course, Natasha Monnery, to talk about her time studying Equine at the college and her exciting career journey.
What did you study at SMB College Group?
FdSc Equine Performance Science
Why did you choose to study with us?
I chose to study at SMB College Group as I knew I wanted to pursue a career within the equine industry and was impressed with the facilities including an equine therapy centre, allowing students to gain experience in different areas of the equestrian world to inspire us for future careers.
What did you enjoy most about your time here / studying with us?
I really enjoyed the ability to have close relations with my lecturers due to the smaller class sizes, and felt valued as a student. There was a very friendly environment and I always felt comfortable to ask any questions I had.
What has been your career journey so far to be where you are now?
Between the first and second years of my study I completed a summer internship at The All England Jumping Course, Hickstead. Within this internship I was involved in the preparations in the weeks leading up to the shows and was based in the press office during the shows where I was responsible for organising press accreditation, producing social media content, and interviewing winning riders. It was an amazing experience being part of the team at such a famous showground which I had visited many times as a spectator growing up.
Through connections gained at Hickstead I was lucky enough to also gain work experience in the press office at the Longines Global Champions Tour in London at the end of my summer. This was another incredible experience, I even got to walk into the arena with Ben Maher and Explosion W for a celebration of their Olympic gold medal, just a couple of weeks after their return from the games!
I then returned to my studies at the end of the summer for my second year. Knowing I was due to finish the following May, I was pleasantly surprised to be offered to return to Hickstead in a full-time role on completion of my studies. Having loved every second of my internship, I was delighted to be returning to kickstart my dream career route. Since starting in May 2022, I have completed a full season at Hickstead with the return of international competition since pre-covid and am currently gearing up for another exciting summer season.
What’s your career highlight been so far?
Highlights of my career so far come from working on the international shows including the famous Al Shira’aa Hickstead Derby Meeting and Longines Royal International Horse Show. There is such a buzzing atmosphere during these weeks and I have had many pinch me moments! I have been incredibly lucky to be part of interviewing some of the best riders in the world including Shane Breen, the Al Shira’aa Hickstead Derby winner, Ben Maher, Harry Charles and Olivier Philippaerts to name a few!
How did your studies here contribute to where you are today?
The range of modules provided me with a broad understanding of different aspects of the equestrian industry and equestrian business. I particularly valued the business management and events management module, as I enjoyed understanding the process of preparations to make an event or business a success. This is certainly useful to me in my role today as I contribute to the decisions made in the running of international equestrian events!
What is something you still value today, that you have taken from your studies here?
Whilst studying at SMB College Group I learnt how to become more confident and put myself forward for tasks, which is something I value today as being able to trust my ability and push myself allows me to keep making steps closer towards my future aspirations.
What would you say / Do you have any advice for to people currently looking at studying here?
I would say that you should embrace all opportunities provided to you through the college whether that be getting involved in events or going on trips to a variety of industry visits, as they will all provide you with experience that may become so valuable to you as you progress on your career journey even if you don’t think it is relevant in that moment.
Any advice for people aiming to follow a career / education pathway like yours?
My advice would be to always seek opportunities within the industry. Large equestrian events always require a large work force and therefore are always looking for an extra pair of hands, so even if you’re dream show/business isn’t advertising, get in contact anyway!
If you're interested in studying Equine at SMB College Group, come along to our Brooksby Campus open day in June to find out more! Book your place at: Events & Open Days | SMB College Group