Hi, my name is Anja Wellwood
I am currently in my fourth year of a Bachelor of Agricultural Science with Honours at Lincoln University, originating from Hawkes Bay.
Whilst I didn’t come from a traditional farming upbringing, I have always had a toe in the agricultural industry and a passion for it, which has blossomed further during my studies and making the most of everything that both university and the South Island has to offer. Throughout, I have gained practical experience on a range of dairy and sheep & beef farms, one of which I continue to work on, which has broadened my horizons across a range of systems.
My passion within the industry is around soil health and management, and how this translates to animal production as well as sustainability. This has lead me to pursue my postgraduate studies on the dryland regenerative agriculture experiment at Lincoln, comparing phosphorus analysis methods for both conventional and regen systems, and attempting to calibrate yield off my findings.
The future for me looks like pursuing a career where I can make a positive mark on the industry by combining present and future skills, experiences and values. I am extremely grateful to be awarded the Brian Aspin Memorial Scholarship, which has been hugely beneficial. This has significantly relieved financial concern as well as the pressure to work at my part time job, therefore allowing me to focus more on my academics, which is particularly important this year. Applying for scholarships is highly encouraged for any students considering it, not just for financial aid but for developing your network and connections. Networking, gaining confidence and learning to back yourself are all skills which I have developed during my studies through opportunities like applying for scholarships, which are invaluable skills now and going into the future.
