From Nelson to Dairy Research: Amy Toughey’s Journey

If you were to ask Bachelor of Animal Science graduate Amy Toughey what she's most proud of, she's say it's that title - graduate.

"Study isn't my strong point, and I worked three jobs alongside my full-time degree, so the fact that I not only passed my papers with grades I'm happy with but stuck it out and graduated with no hiccups - I'm proud of that!"

Growing up against the backdrop of the beach and mountains surrounding Nelson, Amy knew from a young age she wanted to work with animals and help make life better for them and their owners.

"Massey was everything I was looking for. I majored in genetics and breeding and chose this path because it allows for long-term improvement in animals and helps create a better understanding of where New Zealand and our future herds and flocks are headed."

Prior to starting her degree, Amy completed a Certificate of University Preparation which she says helped her transition from college to university.

"It helped me adjust my study techniques and navigate the university's resources, such as the library, making the move to university much smoother."

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Alongside her partner Caleb, who helped her navigate the ups and downs of balancing work, life and study, Amy says her lecturers also played a key role in guiding her to where she is today.

"They provided real insight into what my future might look like, and the different pathways I could choose. I've just completed a three-month internship that taught me so many amazing things about the industry in ways I never expected."

Amy completed an internship with Aviagen, where she learned first-hand about the different stages of a chicken's life, from how genetics are selected, through to adulthood, and the processes that ensure a healthy chicken is produced.

"My time with Aviagen allowed me to see the amount of work that goes into raising the chickens everyday New Zealanders consume. It taught me some valuable lessons on how quickly the industry can change, and how to adapt in ways that keep New Zealand's food industry at such a high standard.

"It was such an incredible experience, and I'm now moving into the workforce, ready to make a difference."

Amy is currently working on a research dairy farm, where she also provides tech support for a new trial.

"It's an amazing role where I get to be very hands-on while also learning about trial ethics, standards and the different methods and measurements for data collection.

"My animal science degree equipped me with all the tools I've needed in the early stages of my career. It taught me how to use a range of data collection techniques, most of which I'm using now and will continue to use for our upcoming trials. One day, I hope to run a trial with the farm I'm working on - they've made massive progress within the dairy industry, and I hope to make my own mark on it."

Another highlight during Amy's study was getting to work closely with some of the department's woolly residents. Volunteering with classmates, she helped rear orphan lambs and would often head down after class for cuddles.

"It was great stress relief! I also reared calves as one of my jobs, feeding them early in the morning before lectures. They became so friendly you could lie down with them for cuddles, and they would curl up with you. It was the highlight of my day!"

When she's not working, Amy loves to get out in nature and hike. Over summer, she ticked another mountain off her to-do list when she reached the summit of Mt Taranaki.

Throughout her journey, Amy says the biggest lesson she's learned is that you're always capable, no matter what the challenge is.

"While it can feel overwhelming in the moment, no challenge is too big and there's nothing that can't be done so long as you take a few breaths and get stuck in."