August 2016 Alumni of the month

Karl Scarr

BSc Hons Zoology 2011

1.  Tell us about yourself. 

Since graduating from my zoology degree in 2011, I am now an established author, most known for my book titled 'Leader of the Pack'. Three years ago I set up 'Le Sanctuaire de la Faune de Tanger', a non-profit wild animal charity and sanctuary in Tangier Morocco. We rescue animals of any species in desperate need of care and refuge.

2.  What is your fondest memory at Anglia Ruskin University?

My favourite memories are of any lecture with Dr Philip Pugh. Classes were very engaging and he made everything so clear and interesting plus he pushed you to think 'outside the box' to achieve what you wanted or needed.

3.  What advice would you give to current students as they're preparing to graduate? 

Get as much volunteering experience in the field you wish to progress in, and make yourself invaluable through hard work. Your career will come from this avenue.

4.  What do you know now that you wish you had known whilst you were studying?

Luckily I love reading but I wish I had read more thoroughly the books advised on the reading lists you are given, as the lectures and course work are designed around these books.

5.  How did your time at Anglia Ruskin help you?

My time at Anglia helped me find direction. I found the path that I wished to take, because I was engaged in classroom topics that initially I thought I would not be interested in, but now I work in that field and I love what I do.

6.  What did you love about your chosen course?

My course was varied and diverse with many practical learning possibilities, in the form of field trips, which prepare you better than any tutorial can.

7.  What would you tell someone thinking of studying at Anglia?

Anyone wishing to study at ARU I would say go for it 100%! Sit at the front of each class, ask questions and complete the homework whilst fresh in your mind, and you will gain a good understanding of your pathway. 

8.  In one word how would you describe Anglia?

Illumination

9.  Who was the biggest influence on your career?

Philip Pugh my lecturer.

10. What accomplishment are you most proud of?

I have set up a very successful rescue organisation that has become the largest in Morocco and which now influences the curriculum of schools, colleges and universities in Morocco, Europe and now the US. 

11. What advice would you give your younger self?

I should've done my degree at a younger age, but I know for sure that I would not have had the business or life skills knowledge to own such an association. So for me it is a double-edged sword.

12. What drives you?

I am driven by the will to change perceptions in animal welfare, to save a life that very minute and to educate communities in welfare matters.

13. What’s next?

I have just got a new place in Almera Spain, which I am converting into a sanctuary, just like 'Le Sanctuaire de la Faune de Tanger' and I'm looking for volunteers to help build the enclosures,  This place will have a hydrotherapy pool and we've named it 'Animal Sanctuary of Almeria' (ASA).  It has very good facilities, lots of accommodation and it's only 20 minutes from the beach.