Q: Why did you choose to come to the University of Missouri?
A: Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be a Tiger. My mom is a proud Mizzou alum, and her love for the university inspired me from a young age. Our family has always had a strong connection to Mizzou, as I spent many years on campus for state 4-H competitions. Whether it was livestock judging in Trowbridge or meat judging in Eckles Hall, these events allowed me to become familiar with the university. Each visit, my mom would make us walk around the entire campus, sharing stories about her time here and pointing out her favorite spots, which made those visits even more special. It was during those walks that I could truly envision myself as a student here, and it just felt like the perfect fit. Mizzou was the only school I applied to because I never wanted to be anywhere else. It wasn’t just a university to me; it felt like home.
Q: Why did you choose to pursue your major?
A: As a freshman, I didn’t have a clear picture of the exact career I wanted to pursue, but one thing was certain—I wanted to be part of the agriculture industry. When I explored Mizzou’s degree options, agribusiness management immediately stood out to me because of its versatility and the broad skill set it provides. This degree offers a perfect balance of economic principles and agricultural applications, preparing me for a variety of roles within the ag sector. It felt like the ideal choice to help me keep my options open while still aligning with my passion for agriculture and the opportunities it creates.
Q: Were you involved in any extracurricular activities?
A: During my time at Mizzou, I was involved in Mizzou Collegiate 4-H and Sigma Alpha, two organizations that greatly enriched my college experience. Mizzou Collegiate 4-H provided me with a unique opportunity to give back to the program that shaped me into the person I am today. I was able to assist at State 4-H Competitions and lead workshops for current 4-H members, helping them grow their skills and confidence. These experiences were incredibly rewarding, as they allowed me to give back to the organization that had such a big impact on my life.
I was also a proud member of Sigma Alpha, a professional agriculture sorority rooted in the values of scholarship, leadership, fellowship and service. Sigma Alpha provided a space to connect with other women who are passionate about agriculture, which helped me cultivate both lifelong friendships and a strong professional network. From participating in service projects to building leadership skills, Sigma Alpha gave me countless opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. Being part of such a supportive and driven group of women truly inspired me and reinforced my passion for the agriculture industry.
Q: Did you partake in any research, study abroad or internship opportunities? What did you enjoy about those experiences?
A: During my time at Mizzou, I had the incredible opportunity to intern with American Foods Group for two summers as a Quality Assurance Intern. These internships not only provided hands-on experience in the beef processing industry, but also allowed me to travel extensively throughout the Midwest, visiting locations in Wisconsin, Nebraska, South Dakota and Missouri. The traveling aspect of my internships was the highlights of my experience, as it gave me the unique chance to observe and appreciate the differences in cattle across various regions.
Seeing firsthand how regional factors influence cattle quality and production methods was fascinating and deepened my understanding of the industry as a whole. Each location brought new learning opportunities, from understanding regional feed practices to observing how environmental conditions shape livestock production. This exposure broadened my perspective on the agricultural industry and helped me appreciate the diversity and complexity of cattle production across the Midwest. It was an unforgettable experience that reinforced my passion for agriculture and food safety while preparing me for a future career in the field.
Q: What is a favorite memory you have during your time in CAFNR?
A: My favorite memory from my time in CAFNR is participating in Mud Volleyball during CAFNR Week. Whether I’m playing on a team or cheering on friends, the energy is unmatched – from the friendly competition and laughter to the messy fun of diving into the mud. It’s more than just a game, it’s a chance to connect with friends, unwind after a long week of classes and fully embrace the CAFNR spirit. This event has truly become my favorite tradition and a highlight of my time at Mizzou.
Q: How did your degree program prepare you for the future?
A: My degree program equipped me for the future by building a strong foundation in both agriculture and business. With a diverse curriculum that included courses in economics, management and finance, all tailored to the agricultural sector, I gained a broad understanding of the industry and honed critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Q: What are your future plans?
A: I am thrilled to share that I have accepted a full-time position with American Foods Group as their Safe Quality Food (SQF) Practitioner. I’m excited to join their team at America’s Heartland Packing, their newest startup facility in Wright City, Missouri. This role represents an incredible opportunity to contribute to a company I admire and be part of a cutting-edge operation in the beef processing industry. I’m looking forward to applying my skills, continuing to grow professionally and making a meaningful impact in this exciting new chapter.