Rachel Self, a master’s degree student in the Division of Animal Sciences, has been selected as a member of the 2024 Real Pork Scholar Cohort through the National Pork Board.

This prestigious cohort-based program addresses communication gaps for the U.S. pork industry. It identifies outstanding graduate-level students engaging in value-added experiences while conducting academic work to positively advance U.S. pork production. They will learn best practices for communicating scientific research effectively to multiple audiences, helping answer commons questions about the pork industry, especially related environment, public health, community, animal welfare, food safety and people. 

“I wanted to join the Real Pork Scholars program for networking opportunities with fellow graduate students and professionals in the swine industry, developing my personal and professional development,” said Self. “I am looking forward to improving my research and presentation skills for avocation for agriculture within and outside of the industry.”

National Pork Board values the partnership between University of Missouri and the selected mentors as the scholars learn to think critically, engage with a multi-disciplinary cohort of colleagues and transfer learning to action with enhanced communications advocacy and media skills. As part of the program, Self will receive $60,000 over two years to support research and professional development.

Amy Petry, assistant professor of Animal Sciences, serves as Self’s advisor.