Michelle Spillane-Smith graduated from Cornwall College Newquay, part of the Combined Universities in Cornwall, in November 2006 with a distinction in the Zoological Conservation Foundation Degree; a course approved by The University of Plymouth and the impressive accolade of Cornwall College Student of the Year.
Having achieved a 2.1 degree in World Agriculture at Bangor University in 1997, Michelle had decided to focus specifically on the areas of animal welfare and rehabilitation. When her husband was stationed at RAF St Mawgan in 1998, Michelle was able to gain valuable experience by working for the RSPCA and as deputy manager of The Cats Protection League in Truro.
Keen to continue her education and to specialise further in exotic animals, tropical species, marine mammals and primates and to learn about conserving their environments, Michelle looked for a local course. The FdSc in Zoological Conservation proved ideal as it enabled Michelle to study part time and to continue to work and raise her young family, whilst focusing on the specific areas of study she had identified.
As she explained, "The course provided great opportunities to gain experience and further knowledge in this specialised field. My time there helped me realise my true future ambitions and I loved every minute!"
Rebecca Allen, Michelle's tutor, who nominated her for the award commented, "It's been a real pleasure to teach Michelle. She has been one of our outstanding students, helpful to others, producing excellent assignments and taking an active role in student life- we wish her all the best for the future."
Michelle and her family had to move closer to another RAF base and she is now working as Regional Coordinator for the Midlands division of the British Divers Marine Life Rescue. She is currently considering the options of becoming an RSPCA inspector or lecturing part time in Animal Care, but would ideally like to be based back in Cornwall.
She explains, "It is our dream to set up an animal welfare and rehabilitation centre in Cornwall- once you have lived there, you have an affinity with the place- ideally one day we will return."
