CAFNR Senior Spotlight – Q&A with William Lee

Lee is a senior graduating in December with a degree in plant sciences.




William Lee (left) and fellow plant science and technology student Felicity Guttmann (right) presented a poster about Agronomy Club at a recent conference.
William Lee (left) and fellow plant science and technology student Felicity Guttmann (right) presented a poster about Agronomy Club at a recent conference.

Q: Why did you choose to come to the University of Missouri?
A:
Being a land-grant university, Mizzou is committed to educating young minds and spreading research data through its extension service. These are goals I found to be admirable of an education institution where I would attend. I also wanted to continue my family legacy of academics here at Mizzou.

Q: Why did you choose to pursue a degree in plant science and technology?
A:
I have always been interested in agronomy, coming from a farming background. I wanted to expand my knowledge in production agriculture and be able to apply it in my everyday job.

Q: Were you involved in any extracurricular activities? If so, could you talk about those experiences?
A:
While at Mizzou I was involved in various clubs. I was a member and President of the MU Agronomy Club. I am also a member of the Agricultural Systems Technology Club. These clubs allowed me to network with fellow CAFNR students and expand my knowledge outside of the classroom.

Q: Did you partake in any research, study abroad, or internship opportunities? What did you enjoy about those experiences?
A:
Over the past fall and summer, I conducted my undergraduate research study evaluating sorghum systems for livestock grazing. This project allowed me to expand my hands-on knowledge into the research aspect of university work.

Q: What is a favorite memory you have during your time in CAFNR?
A:
My favorite memory is getting to participate in CAFNR Week activities to network with fellow students in an eventful and fun setting. Mud volleyball was above all my favorite activity that we started the week with each year.

Q: How did your degree program prepare you for the future?
A:
My degree program had requirements of various classes. This variety of classes allowed me to expand my abilities in multiple aspects, including topics from communication, scientific research, literature, biology, and many more. This exposure has allowed me to develop a well-rounded skill set to apply in a multitude of career options.

Q: What are your future plans?
A:
I have been accepted and will be attending Mizzou in January as a graduate student in plant sciences. Afterwards, I will search for a career in the agriculture industry as an agronomy specialist.