Major: Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Communication and Agricultural Economics-Public Policy
Year in School: Sophomore
Hometown: Burwell, Nebraska
Please describe your big idea in a few sentences.
My idea combines two of my favorite things – coffee and cooking. I want to recycle used coffee grounds and create pellets to be used to fuel pellet grills, such as Traeger Grills.
What impact do you want to have on the world?
My goal is to leave a legacy of tenacity and kindness. I want to be an example of hard work, dedication and proof nothing can stand in the way if you have enough persistence, even when times are hard. I want to be someone who respects not only herself, but more importantly, others. My goal is to leave the world better than I found it.
How has the Change Maker scholarship and CASNR community helped you discover your passion and grow your skills?
The CASNR community has given me the opportunity to explore all of my passions. Since transferring at semester my freshman year, the support I have received from this community has been unwavering. I have been able to find my stride without missing a beat. CASNR is the perfect mixture of big-time opportunities and small-town connections.
How has your mentor/mentors shaped your experience thus far?
My mentors are John Carrol and Kate Engel. From our first meeting, John and Kate have been nothing but excited and encouraging. I have found it difficult to find others as intrigued with my idea as I am. This is not the case for John and Kate. In fact, after our first meeting, they connected me with multiple people who will help me develop my idea. Their mentorship has been invaluable. I would not be at this point with my idea without their constant and unwavering support.
What advice would you have for someone who is not sure if they should apply/if their idea is big enough?
Just do it. You will never know unless you try. I understand the hesitation, because I was in your exact position last year. Had it not been for my mom pestering me about this scholarship, I would have never applied. For once she was right. Have confidence in your idea, but more importantly be confident in yourself. Share your idea and let your passion shine through.