Hometown: Columbus, Nebraska
Major: Agricultural Education (Teaching Option), minor in Animal Science
Anticipated Date of Graduation: December 2024
Why did you decide to come to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
Throughout my youth, I would visit here for different events and contests. Since then, the university has always felt like home. When I officially came on my visit here, it was next to impossible to see myself anywhere else.
What is your favorite thing about the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
My favorite thing about the university would either have to be the people or experiences it has brought me to. My life has forever been impacted by both of these in such a short amount of time, and for that, I am truly grateful.
What about diversity and inclusion is important to you when you think about your CASNR experience?
Diversity and inclusion are a huge part of education here in CASNR. When each of us goes off into our respective careers, we will be faced with unfamiliar situations and experiences. Preparing for that here puts us bounds ahead. On top of that, diversity and inclusion in CASNR allow me to be a better person and more appreciative of the entire world around me.
Exposure to cultural differences is a huge part of college. What activity have you recently participated in that is different from what you are used to in your culture? This could be something you read, listened to, watched, eaten, or otherwise taken part in. What did you learn from this activity?
My favorite way to gain exposure to different cultures is through the East Campus Dining Center. Often, the dining staff prepares traditional foods from various cultures, oriented in a way that incorporates American cuisine. They also do a fantastic job of decorating for that respective culture. These meals allow me to appreciate other cuisines and cultures. I also have the opportunity to gain knowledge about these topics when engaging in conversation with any of the dining staff, who are more than willing to talk with all who enter.
What is your favorite class you have taken so far and why?
ALEC 135 - Through this course, I was able to dive into the side of education that we don’t get to see as students. I was also able to begin forming relationships with those in my cohort. In the world of agricultural education, there is a huge sense of family amongst educators, so it was awesome to see that begin to develop this early. Additionally, I was able to teach in a high school classroom my first semester of college. Although this experience was intense, it’s what I needed to know that I am on the right career path. Seeing the excitement in students’ eyes as they understood the lesson or got an answer right was extremely rewarding.
What are your plans post-graduation?
Upon graduation, I plan to teach agriculture at a school in rural Nebraska.
What's life like outside of school?
Outside of school, I love spending time with my family and friends. Growing up in production agriculture was particularly impactful on me, so any time I can get home, that is what I prefer to do most. Spending time with the cows is particularly good for the college students’ soul.