BEING IN THE KRUTSINGER BEEF INDUSTRY SCHOLARS PROGRAM HAS HELPED KELSEY BUILD CONNECTIONS AND GAIN A DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF THE BEEF INDUSTRY.
Hometown: O'Neill, Nebraska
Major: Animal Science
Minor: Krutsinger Beef Industry Scholars Program
Anticipated date of graduation: December 2025
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 to come to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln because it offers lots of opportunities within animal science, specifically beef production, that you can’t find anywhere else. I joined the beef industry scholars program to find a community where I can grow, network, and learn all aspects of the beef industry.
What has been your favorite experience in the Beef Scholars program so far?
I really enjoyed attending CattleCon in San Antonio, TX, and going on our industry tour in Colorado. Both experiences gave me a better understanding of how different segments of the beef industry work together and helped me connect with professionals who are truly passionate about what they do.
How has the Beef Scholars program helped you prepare for a career in the beef industry?
The program has really helped me build my professional network and gain a broader understanding of how the beef industry functions beyond the cow-calf level. The experiences and connections I’ve made have strengthened my communication skills and given me insight into how I can contribute to the industry after graduation.
“I joined the beef industry scholars program to find a community where I can grow, network, and learn all aspects of the beef industry.
What has been your favorite class or learning opportunity connected to beef, and why?
My favorite class was my carcass evaluation class, as it taught me about a I segment of the beef industry wasn’t super familiar with before.
Can you share a memorable activity, trip, or connection from Beef Scholars (e.g., tours, industry visits, networking)?
The Colorado industry tour stands out the most. It was incredible to visit feed yards, a packing plants, a direct-to-consumer feedlot, and a seedstock operation all in one trip. Seeing how each segment operates and connects to the next made everything I’ve learned in class come to life.
What are your plans post-graduation, and how do you see the Beef Scholars program playing a role in your future?
After graduation, I plan to continue working with beef cattle and focus on building and improving my own herd through genetic selection and artificial insemination. The Beef Scholars program has shown me how important it is to stay involved and keep learning from others in the industry, and it’s helped me develop the skills and connections to do just that.
“Seeing how each segment operates and connects to the next made everything I’ve learned in class come to life.”
Outside of school and Beef Scholars, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I enjoy helping out on the family operation, working with cattle, and spending time outdoors.
What scholarships or support have you received that have helped you during your time at UNL?
I’ve been fortunate to receive the Angus Association Commercial Cattlemen Scholarship and the UNL Regents Scholarship, along with several local agriculture-based scholarships. They’ve been a huge help throughout my time at UNL and have allowed me to focus on learning and getting the most out of my college experience. Along with that, I’ve had a great support system of family, friends, and UNL faculty that have believed in me helped me along the way.
