FROM LIVESTOCK JUDGING, MEAT JUDGING, AND SHOWING CATTLE, JAYLEA GREW UP DEEPLY INVOLVED IN THE BEEF INDUSTRY.
Hometown: Shelton, Nebraska
Major: Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Communications, and Animal Science
Minor(s): Krutsinger Beef Industry Scholars Program
Anticipated date of graduation: December 2026
Why did you decide to come to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and what drew you to the Krtustinger Beef Industry Scholars Program?
Growing up and attending events at the university showed me that every opportunity I needed to set me up for success in the agriculture industry was at my fingertips, one of which was the Beef Scholars minor.
What has been your favorite experience in the Beef Scholars program so far?
So far, my favorite experience is building relationships with my peers who are also passionate about the beef industry.
How has the Beef Scholars program helped you prepare for a career in the beef industry?
The connections we have been able to make and the industry exposure we have received have been second to none.
What has been your favorite class or learning opportunity connected to beef, and why?
My favorite learning experience has come from the experiential learning requirements and competing on competitive teams, which also teach me skills that I can apply to all segments in the industry.
Can you share a memorable activity, trip, or connection from Beef Scholars (e.g., tours, industry visits, networking)?
A memorable connection from our industry tour was visiting the JBS facility in Greeley, CO, and learning about their plant and company, but also then coming back a year later as a meat judging team member and seeing the plant again.
What are your plans post-graduation, and how do you see the Beef Scholars program playing a role in your future?
I plan to pursue a career related to agricultural communications where I can best serve beef producers and agriculturists and share the story of agriculture.
Outside of school and Beef Scholars, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I enjoy competing on the meat judging team and helping youth contestants as a livestock judging coach, as well as raising and showing livestock with my family.
What scholarships or support have you received that have helped you during your time at UNL?
I was very fortunate to receive several animal science department scholarships, UNL Block & Bridle scholarships, and Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation Scholarships during my time at UNL.
