Dylan Hoyt, a sophomore from Martinsburg, Missouri, majoring in plant sciences, served as a Summer Welcome Leader.

Q: How did you get interested in being a Summer Welcome leader?
A: I really wanted to get involved with the University at a larger scale. I remembered the great time I had during my Summer Welcome session and wanted to help incoming freshmen and transfer students.

Q: What was your favorite or most rewarding part of your work this summer?
A: My favorite part of this summer was meeting all of the Dylan’s Dinos! Making connections with my students and those in other groups was amazing. The best part was uncovering the people, places, or events I had in common with several of them and hopefully eased the nerves of a few more.

Q: What was the most challenging part of this summer or your biggest learning experience?
A: Learning how to “lean out” was definitely a challenge this summer. Being in such an enthusiastic and high-energy environment all day can be very draining. During our trainings, we were encouraged to take time for ourselves and “lean out” from time to time. However, none of us ever wanted to miss a moment of the fun, and balancing work, social, and rest time became challenging at some points.

Q: How has your time in CAFNR prepared you to be a good Summer Welcome Leader?
A: CAFNR offers a wide variety of leadership opportunities that prepare you to take charge when the need arises. Some may find talking to parents and guests a little daunting, but our college does an amazing job with hosting networking events that get students used to talking and mingling with other students, industry professionals, and community members. 

Q: What advice would you give another CAFNR student who was interested in becoming a Summer Welcome Leader?
A: If you have any interest at all, go to an informational session in the fall! This is an opportunity that allows you to become a guide for freshmen and transfer students and it will help you better understand the resources available to you on campus.