October 27, 2025

MEET A HUSKER: EMELIA ROURKE

Headshot
Courtesy Photo

Courtesy Photo

FOR EMELIA, BEING IN THE KRUTSINGER BEEF INDUSTRY SCHOLARS PROGRAM HAS OPENED DOORS FOR HER IN THE INDUSTRY.

Hometown: Waverly, Nebraska

Major: Animal Science

Minor: Krutsinger Beef Industry Scholars

Anticipated Date of Graduation: May 2026

Why did you decide to come to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and what drew you to the Krutsinger Beef Industry Scholars Program?

I chose UNL because of the incredible opportunities within the Animal Science program. I’ve always been passionate about the beef industry, and the Beef Scholars program felt like the perfect fit to help me gain the knowledge and experience I need to build a successful career in that field.

What has been your favorite experience in the Beef Scholars program so far?

My favorite part has been getting to know my classmates. We’ve taken many of the same classes together and have built a close-knit community that supports each other both in and out of class.

How has the Beef Scholars program helped you prepare for a career in the beef industry?

The beef scholars program has opened many doors for networking within the beef industry. I am grateful for these opportunities as my career goal is to become a consulting nutritionist, which relies heavily on networking.

What has been your favorite class or learning opportunity connected to beef, and why?

My favorite class was the Beef Scholars Industry Study Tour. As a group, we planned a five-day trip that included visits to all sectors of the beef industry and related organizations. It was exciting to tailor the trip to our class’s interests and see the industry from so many different perspectives.

Can you share a memorable activity, trip, or connection from Beef Scholars?

In the spring of 2024, our class planned a trip in any direction from Lincoln and created a schedule of tour stops within the beef industry. It was an incredible experience to travel with my classmates, learn together, and make real-world connections with professionals in the field.

“The beef scholars program has opened many doors for networking within the beef industry.”

What are your plans post-graduation, and how do you see the Beef Scholars program playing a role in your future?

I plan to attend graduate school for ruminant nutrition with the end goal of working as a consulting beef cattle nutritionist. The beef scholars program has provided me with many different networking opportunities, and I have made many connections that I know will support me throughout my career.

Outside of school and Beef Scholars, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I enjoy spending time with friends and family and staying involved in different clubs and organizations.

What scholarships or support have you received that have helped you during your time at UNL?

I have been extremely fortunate to receive many Animal Science departmental scholarships, beef industry scholarships, and Nebraska Cattlemen Scholarships.