They always say your college years fly by, which I could not agree more sitting here as a senior. It’s amazing to look back at all of the opportunities that I’ve had here in the ACE department and how much I’ve grown because of my experiences here. 

One thing that I was able to fully utilize was the experiential learning opportunities here in ACE. I was very fortunate to travel to Europe for the International Business Immersion Program, Brazil for the National Agri-Marketing Association, as well as California for ACE 199: Food, Farm, and Agricultural Policy. These classes and trips alone allowed me to learn about a wide array of topics and to gain real world experiences; both which are extremely valuable. Because of all of these experiences, I’m able to get my Certificate in Management & Experiential Learning, which is something new offered by the ACE Department!

There is also a great deal of opportunities right here on campus to gain leadership experience that helps you develop both as a student and professionally. Here in the College of ACES there are a number of student organizations to be a part of that offer you a chance to hold a leadership position and gain experience in different areas outside of the classroom. Along with ACE Ambassadors, I am personally a part of the National Agri-Marketing Association, the Student Advancement Committee, Collegiate FFA, all of which I hold officer positions in. Additionally, I was able to participate in the Agriculture Future of America (AFA) Leaders Conference the past few years which was a great way to network with other students and professionals from across the United States.

The ACE department in the College of ACES has been the perfect place for me to grow the past few years. I have had so many meaningful opportunities that have provided me with real world experience and guided me in helping me with what I want to do after graduation. Whatever your goals are, there are countless things that you can do and people to help you along the way. Make the most of your time!