Sometimes the best journeys take a few turns along the way. For Charlie Busby switching courses and returning to familiar surroundings gave her the space to rebuild her confidence and reconnect with what she loved most – studying animal behaviour.
Back at University Centre Reaseheath for her final year she found her stride again and a renewed focus led to First-Class Honours in Animal Management and a research project focussing on Asian elephant herds.
Her standout dissertation on elephant locomotion was inspired by time spent observing elephants in the wild and by her growing interest in improving welfare standards for captive animals.
“My dissertation was inspired by my trip to South Africa and by the growing welfare concerns surrounding captive elephants in the UK,” she explains. “Experiencing elephants in their natural environment made me want to explore how their welfare could be improved in captivity.”
The experience left a deep impression on the 21-year-old from Rotherham.
“It wasn’t exactly surprising, but it was deeply moving to observe how strong the bonds are between female elephants. I saw two females who had both experienced the loss of an infant and watching them grieve together really highlighted the depth of their social relationships.”
Charlie also spent time at Blackpool Zoo, where she saw first-hand the care that goes into daily animal management.
“Working at Blackpool Zoo was an incredible experience,” says Charlie. “One of the most interesting aspects was seeing how the keepers incorporated training and health checks into the elephants’ daily routine. It really showed how much care goes into their wellbeing. A fun fact I learned was that the elephants are occasionally treated to popcorn, which both they and the keepers seem to love!”
Her confidence and curiosity flourished in her final year, but that success was built on a big decision. After studying at Reaseheath in her first year, Charlie spent her second year at another university before deciding to return to complete her degree back where she’d started.
“Coming back for my final year felt really exciting,” says Charlie. “Because I already knew the campus and staff, I felt settled straight away and ready to give my all. I approached my third year with a new level of focus, determined to do my best in every module and especially my dissertation.”
That renewed focus helped her shine academically.
Charlie says the encouragement and support from her lecturers made all the difference, particularly Ellie Rose and Becx Whitefield. Ellie guided her through the transition back to Reaseheath and helped her settle into final-year study with confidence, while Bex created an open, engaging learning environment that inspired curiosity and lively discussion.
Charlie’s determination paid off, and she graduated at Chester Cathedral on November 6th with a First-Class Honours degree.
“From the start, my goal was to achieve a First-Class degree, so I’m really proud that I not only achieved over 70% for my dissertation but also graduated with an overall first. It’s a reflection of all the hard work I put in, especially during that final year.”
Looking beyond graduation, Charlie hopes to take her skills abroad.
“In the future, I’d love to get involved in conservation or sanctuary work around the world. I’m currently exploring opportunities to do this while travelling next year. I’m also really passionate about practical zoo work, particularly with Asian elephants or giraffes, after developing a strong interest in them during my time in South Africa.”
And for anyone thinking about following a similar path?
“Get involved and make the most of every opportunity,” she says. “The more you engage with your lectures and practical sessions, the more you’ll get out of the course. The balance of theory and hands-on learning at University Centre Reaseheath is brilliant for developing both your personal and professional skills in the animal industry.”
“In my third year, I found a new confidence both academically and personally. The anthrozoology seminars really brought this out in me, as they encouraged open discussion on topics I was passionate about.”
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