Hometown: Beatrice, Nebraska
Major: Agricultural Education, teaching option
Minor: Entrepreneurship and leadership
Anticipated Date of Graduation: May 2018
Why did you decide to come to the University of Nebraska?
I decided to come to UNL because of the agricultural education program, and also because it was close to home. I spent a lot of time on East Campus in high school through FFA and the Nebraska Agricultural Youth Institute, which made the decision to come to UNL an easy one.
What is your favorite thing about the University of Nebraska?
My favorite thing about UNL is the small town community feel that East Campus has. It's my home away from home. I love the shared conversations, willingness to help others and friendliness that comes from being on East Campus.
What is your favorite class you have taken so far and why?
The very first semester of my freshman year, I took EAEP 101, an introductory seminar on opportunities in entrepreneurship. Instead of getting handed worksheets, we were strategically placed into groups based on our strengths and weaknesses, handed $50 and were told to start a business. Throughout that semester I learned how to create viable solutions to real problems. My mindset shifted from failure being bad to failure meaning opportunity. This class was what initially sparked my interest in entrepreneurship and was how I got involved in the Engler program. Entrepreneurship classes and the Engler program have challenged me to grow personally, professionally, and as an entrepreneur, and has connected me to innovative go-getters that inspire and push me on a daily basis.
What are your plans post-graduation?
I have a lot of dreams and aspirations that I can't wait to tackle post-graduation! At this point, I plan to teach secondary agricultural education and advise an FFA chapter in rural Nebraska. However, I would love to start elementary agriculture programs to integrate agricultural curriculum into STEM requirements at an early age. I would also like to start my own business in agricultural literacy and/or in agricultural photography that tells the story of agriculture in creative and meaningful ways. I also want to follow in my dad's footsteps and be a farmer.
What's life like outside of school?
Outside of school, I frequently work with elementary students. I am an Ag Sack Lunch Ambassador and an intern with Farm Safety for Just Kids. Through this I get to educate both urban and rural elementary students about where their food comes from, safety on the farm and the life of a farmer. The greatest blessing I've ever received is growing up on a farm, something I didn't realize until I left for college. I love getting away from it all and returning to my roots. I drive Highway 77 frequently, especially during the busy times of year, to see my family and help my dad on the farm. Never thought I'd say I miss fixing fence!