Emma Rose Ploch, an animal sciences major with a minor in science and agricultural journalism, recently received CAFNR’s Outstanding Sophomore Award.

Ploch, from Labadie, Mo., completed an internship with the Missouri Pork Association last year and will serve as an intern for MFA Incorporated this summer. Ploch is the founder of Found in the Field, an agriculture-based social media platform devoted to “supporting, educating, learning and AGvocating.” Her posts work to bridge the gap between producers and consumers.

“Emma Rose is a very devoted student,” said Addison Byrne, instructor in the Division of Animal Sciences. “She is bright, creative and a natural leader. This skillset has allowed her to succeed not only academically but within the industry as well. Emma Rose previously completed an internship with Missouri Pork Association and has a second internship lined up for summer 2021 with MFA Incorporated. Additionally, Emma Rose was extended the opportunity to participate in both the 2020 Indiana Pork Young Professionals Conference and the 2020 National Young Farmer Educational Association ‘Ag Promise’ Conference in Washington, D.C.

“I have also come to know Emma Rose beyond the classroom in her role as a teaching assistant. Emma Rose has the knowledge, ability, professionalism, dedication and empathy so important to successful roles here on campus and in agriculture. Her passion for learning and applying the information, as well as her ability to interact and connect with students and faculty alike have made her an excellent CAFNR Ambassador, advocate for agriculture online as well as in her role as a teaching assistant in animal sciences.”

Ploch has been incredibly active during her two years as a Tiger. She has served in various roles on the student council leadership team, as well as serving as a CAFNR Ambassador. Ploch has also served as an Animal Science Representative and is part of Sigma Alpha – Alpha Chi.

“As an ambassador, Emma Rose has assisted with recruitment, alumni and employer events, presenting to prospective students and families, and has been an instrumental member of our recruitment team,” said Julie Scroggs, director for student recruitment in the CAFNR Office of Academic Programs. “Her knowledge and passion regarding animal sciences and CAFNR as a whole is impressive. In her major, Emma Rose takes rigorous courses that challenge her, but she consistently rises to the occasion and surpasses expectations. She goes out of her way to get internships and professional experience related to animal sciences and represents CAFNR proudly.

“Additionally, Emma Rose is dependable. She is willing to pitch in whenever she is needed for a college event. No job is too small or too big. She has the focus and drive to accomplish important tasks and the humility to do what is needed for the good of an event or our group of ambassadors. We are lucky to have her as an ambassador and in the College.”