Graduate Studies in the UK

Hello all. My name is Amanda Wilkins and I am applying to graduate school in the United Kingdom. Since high school, I've known that I want to work in public gardens. My bachelor's degree is from N.C. State University in horticultural science and I have minors in agroecology and plant biology. I did internships throughout my time at university that confirmed my desire to work in public gardens (see resume link below).

Please feel free to check out my blog for more details about my travels and experiences: http://gardenofserendipity.blogspot.com/

After a recent horticultural internship at the Polly Hill Arboretum, I've realized more specifically I want to be a curator at a public garden. There are many opportunities in public gardens available now, however I know that I want more education before I settle into a career.

When I was  considering programs, I wanted to make sure I was in a program that had a strong tie with a botanical garden. I found that at the University of Edinburgh (with Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh) and Queen Mary University of London (with Royal Botanic Garden Kew). The programs focus on learning about plant taxonomy and diversity, with a focus on conservation. I feel that going through one of these programs will help make me a better curator and horticulturist wherever I work.

I also have a public resume on LinkedIn that you are welcome to check out: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandawilkinshort

I am not expecting to raise everything, but every little bit helps! The funds raised from this campaign will help pay for travel to and from the UK, living expenses and tuition and fees.

Thank you for your time and interest.