Hometown: David City, Nebraska
Major: Animal Science
Anticipated Date of Graduation: May 2020
Why did you decide to come to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln?
I chose Nebraska because they have one of the best animal science programs in the United States. I knew I would be connected with the most influential industry leaders through CASNR and be set up for a more intentional life.
What is your favorite thing about the University of Nebraska–Lincoln?
I love the closeness of the people on East Campus. Especially within the Engler Entrepreneurship Program. This program is such a blended community of people who are so passionate about building free enterprise and small businesses and are committed to pushing each other to take risks and seek opportunity.
How has diversity and inclusive excellence played a role in your CASNR experience?
I don’t think I realize how good I have it here at the university. I have always had equal opportunity here and I haven’t had to know what it feels like to be outcasted. I’m so thankful that Nebraska strives to continue to improve its diversity and inclusiveness of every race, religion, and culture here, because it influences all of us students to do so too.
What is your favorite class you have taken so far, and why?
I had the opportunity to take a very non-traditional “class” last semester (ASCI 399). Dr. Benny Mote provided a few of us with the chance to farrow out about 20 sows. We took care of chores and were there for everything from birth to weaning in our short time before the semester ended. The opportunity to do something hands on and real, was so much more beneficial than any lecture I have ever had, especially as someone who does not have experience in the pork industry.
What are your plans, post-graduation?
I plan to pursue a masters degree in Ruminant Nutrition following graduation at Nebraska, preferably somewhere in a new state! After that I would like to come back to the university for a doctorate and learn from the professors that I enjoy working with currently.
What’s life like outside of school?
When I’m not in school I am working for the UNL Feedlot and for Sunseo Omega 3; A South Korean Company that distributes a feed additive and buys back meat products that are high in omega 3 fatty acids as a result of our feed formula. I have learned so much at this company and feel very valued. I hope to travel to South Korea this summer and work for the company at their headquarters! But I don’t just work, I spend a lot of time with my family, and with my friends, participating in clubs on campus and in intramural sports, such as sand and indoor volleyball and basketball. In addition, I have my own herd of cattle back home that my dad gets the pleasure of tending when I’m not there, and I spend time working on developing a small business within the Engler program.