Ethan Mitchell-Innes

I decided on studying Plant Science so I could one day bridge the gap I felt between the botanist and the horticulturalist. I remember applying mycorrhizal powder to a root ball once and asking myself how we knew it would help and what it was actually doing.

I’ve always loved the outdoors and have a desire and need to understand it and preserve it. In being a biosciences student, I hope to make an impact on wild spaces which influenced the person I am today. Coming from the New Forest I was surrounded in greenspaces and national park, it only feels right that I study these spaces.

Whilst other universities suggested my background in horticulture would be a hindrance Edge Hill University saw it as a positive. Providing me with a unique set of skills and knowledge, it was this support paired with the fantastic modules provided which influenced my decision to study at Edge Hill.

Data handling, laboratory skills and academic writing. These are the three skills that I have developed the most during my BSc (Hons) Plant Science degree.

I love all the field work I get to do. Everywhere we go is an amazing opportunity to become more and more familiar with skills such as plant identification.

In first year, we got to go to on a fieldtrip Cyprus. In the second half of the week, my group found Serapias Aphrodite a rare and endemic orchid. It was such a treat to see especially in the beautiful backdrop that is Cyprus.

So many opportunities are provided, all you need to do is take them. Everyone at Edge Hill works so hard to provide you with an amazing learning experience. I have never once felt like just a number to the university.

My excellence scholarship from Edge Hill recognises the work I did within the Horticultural industry. From being a silver guilt medallist at the 2021 RHS Chelsea Flower Show to being a panel member for the Linnean Society. Most of the work I did had an underlying theme of engaging young people with plants, something I am still passionate about.

After I graduate, I hope to do some kind of postgraduate study. I am really interested in above and below ground forest ecology but who knows where my passion will take me.

My advice would be to really look into the course modules. They shape the skills and knowledge you will have. Also don’t be afraid to be flexible, many of my friends have changed degrees within the department as to fit a new goal or passion.