Ben Keen

Ben studied a BSc (Hons) Strength and Conditioning with Foundation Year degree and is now enrolled on an MSc Strength and Conditioning.

Why Hartpury?

“I chose Hartpury as I wanted to compete at a high rugby standard while completing a degree. It’s a unique university and I believed it would provide me with the best academic resources and be a great place to study and compete in sports. As Hartpury is such a small and close community you get to meet so many people in your first year, and when living on site you’re literally surrounded by all your mates, whether that be flat mates, people on the same course or others you meet through sports.”

Hartpury Experience

“Unfortunately, I didn’t get the grades I’d hoped for and felt I was not ready to take on my first academic year of university. Taking a foundation year allowed me to grasp the academics I needed prior to completing a degree. My foundation year taught me how to reference various types of research, plan for an assignment, search for specific research on Google Scholar and other search engines and how to write academically, preparing me for university work and how to achieve the best grade possible. Studying a foundation year in sports science has been greatly beneficial in the long run, using my study notes in order to help me prepare for my strength and conditioning accreditation exam being one example. It’s definitely a great way to build yourself into university if you don’t feel confident jumping straight into your first academic year, you’re able to slowly bring yourself up to speed with what is expected at university which will definitely help out in the long run.

I played for the rugby academy during my four years at Hartpury, it was one of my best experiences as it allowed me to compete in rugby to a very high standard as well as create a great social bond with every player I met. Even as a first year, it was a great way to meet and bond with students in their 2nd or 3rd year. Every team plays to a very high standard and there’s always the opportunity to get noticed by coaches to push you up and hopefully compete in the BUCS Super League. I’ve been lucky enough to make my debut for Hartpury 1st in the BUCS Super Rugby League.”