Student Spotlight: Clayton Thomas

Clayton Thomas
Clayton Thomas
August 18, 2020

Hometown: Bloomington, Illinois

Major: I am currently pursuing a degree in Agriculture Education, with a minor in Animal Science.

Anticipated Date of Graduation: Fall 2022

Why did you decide to come to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?

From the moment I stepped onto campus for my first visit, to the constant back and forth emails with my advisor, I have always felt like more than a number. The CASNR and agricultural education family at UNL is truly like no other school environment that I’ve seen, and I knew that UNL was where I was meant to be.

What is your favorite thing about the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?

My favorite thing about the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (other than the East Campus Dairy Store) would have to be the faculty. Although I have only just finished my freshman year, the university has already exceeded my expectations. The faculty and staff genuinely care about their students and go above and beyond to get to know and provide opportunities for their students to grow personally and professionally. While in class, the passion of CASNR’s professors to teach truly shines!

How has diversity and inclusive excellence played a role in your CASNR experience?

I believe the role of diversity and inclusion is extremely important to the success of every student in CASNR. When we take time to learn about other people and their culture, I feel that we learn to appreciate differences, that make us better people. One of my favorite experiences from last year was while in intro to plant science, Dr. Lee took the time to have students from Rwanda talk about agriculture and the environment that they live in. Dr. Lee not only took the time to discuss the differences between our countries, but you could also tell how much he cared about all of his students.

What is your favorite class you have taken so far and why?

My favorite class that I have taken so far would have to be animal science 150. In this class, I was able to work hands-on with most livestock species and learn about basic livestock operations. One of the main focusses of the class is learning how to farrow 10 sows. Since I have never raised pigs, this gave me the chance to learn more about the swine industry first hand while getting to be around piglets almost 24/7. Not only did this class provide me with hands-on learning, but since we all spent so many hours together, it also was an opportunity for my fellow peers and I to become even closer friends through the teamwork that this class provides.

What are your plans post-graduation?

Upon graduating, I hope that I can find a job teaching high school agriculture.

What’s life like outside of school?

Outside of school I really like to be involved with extracurricular activities and hang out with friends. I am currently apart of Ag Ed Club, Block & Bridle, Agriculture Futures of America (AFA), Campus Connect, and I am a student worker in the ALEC office. When I am not participating in one of these events, I also enjoy taking naps and watching a good show on Netflix.

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