Jenna Genson came to Ohio State from her hometown of Farmersville, Ohio to major in agricultural education. Her career after Ohio State has led her to graduate school in Virginia and careers in Ohio, Indiana and Texas! Read more from our conversation with 2008 agricultural education alumni, Ms. Jenna Genson.
[ACEL]: Hi Jenna! You majored in agricultural education while a student at Ohio State. What influenced that choice of major?
[Gensen]: Both of my parents were teachers, so even as a little girl I knew I wanted to be a teacher – I just didn’t know what subject. The life-changing experiences I had in 4-H and FFA sparked my passion for youth development and agricultural education. I was hooked! I am fueled by helping others actualize their goals and be successful in their own, unique way.
Why Ohio State?
While I applied to attend other schools, Ohio State was always my first choice. The agriculture education program is second to none! When I got accepted to the Columbus campus, I was beyond excited! I’ll always be a proud Buckeye, regardless of how many miles away I am from the heart of it all.
How has your education at Ohio State influence your career path?
My time at Ohio State and Virginia Tech allowed me to better understand all of the opportunities available in agricultural education. When I started at Ohio State, I was convinced I would be an agriculture teacher and FFA advisor for my entire career. I had no concept of how diverse our industry is. My time as a student provided the exposure and network I needed to get started!
As a student, what classes did you enjoy the most?
I always enjoyed classes in CFAES the most. Had this question been asked when I was graduating, I think my answer would have been different. As I reflect now, I think my favorite class was Methods of Teaching Agriculture with Dr. Whittington and Caryn (now Dr. Filson). Trying things on in lab was scary, especially in front of my peers – but it was tangible, realistic and by far the most beneficial educational experience at Ohio State. I continue to use many things I learned in that class on a daily basis.
Did a professor or faculty member have an impact on your collegiate studies?
I am amazed at the talent and energy of Dr. Susie Whittington. She is a wonderful example of how to embody passion for whatever profession you choose. She has a knack for building a positive, inclusive culture and always encourages others to lean in and try new things. My appreciation for Dr. Whittington continues to grow as I watch her find innovative ways to engage with students and the profession.
A lot of our current students are involved in student organizations. Where you involved in any as a student?
I was a member of Agricultural Education Society for four years, Sigma Alpha Professional Agricultural Sorority for three years and served as president for one year, Towers Agricultural Honorary, Collegiate Young Farmers and I also worked at the Ohio State Vet Hospital part time for four years.
What is your favorite memory related to your time at Ohio State?
Time with friends – road trips, football Saturdays, and late night food runs during study sessions to name a few.
What was your first job following your education at Ohio State?
Upon graduation I moved to Blacksburg, Virginia and started graduate school at Virginia Tech. After graduating with my master’s degree, I came back to Ohio to serve as an agriculture teacher and FFA advisor.
For what schools, companies and/or organizations have you worked throughout your career?
I was the agriculture teacher and FFA advisor at Valley View High School in Germantown, Ohio from 2010-2012. I then worked as an education specialist for the National FFA Organization in Indianpolis, Indiana from 2012-2017. I now work for the Texas Rural Water Association in Austin, Texas as a classroom and online course development specialist.
During your career, have you received any awards or honors? If so, what are those?
- 2016 – White House Science Fair Delegate
- 2012 – Ohio Teacher Turn the Key Winner through the National Association of Agricultural Educators (as nominated by Ohio Association of Agricultural Educators)
- 2009 – Sigma Alpha Professional Agricultural Sorority – National Outstanding Alumni
- 2009 – Sigma Alpha Professional Agricultural Sorority – Alpha Chapter Outstanding Alumni
- 2008 – Honorary Chapter FFA Degree Recipient (Otsego FFA Chapter)
- 2007 – Honorary Chapter FFA Degree Recipient (Valley View FFA Chapter)
As of today, what is your favorite career highlight?
I’ve been blessed with so many wonderful memories. The top two are:
Staying connected with my former students and watching them grow into wonderful young adults. Sarah Landis is a wonderful example. In my first year of teaching, Sarah was a freshman in my Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources course (AFNR class). I’ve enjoyed witnessing her development. From being involved in several organizations and sports, going on to serve as a state FFA officer, earning her American FFA degree, and now being a Buckeye and aspiring agriculture teacher – watching former students succeed is one of the most rewarding feelings!
During my time at the National FFA Organization, I had the pleasure of working with the Agriscience Fair among other programs. The agriscience fair program continued to gain momentum and develop rapidly over the last few years. During his time in office, President Obama had a strong desire to highlight students excelling in STEM education. He founded the White House Science Fair where many successful students from across the country were invited to participate and represent their respective science fairs and organizations. National FFA was honored to participate each year and in 2016 I was invited to attend the event with our student to represent the organization. Watching the President interact with the students in the Rose Garden, witnessing his remarks in the East Room, and interacting with dignitaries and STEM professionals from across the country was incredibly powerful and inspiring!
What advice would you give to a current student?
Say yes! Take the extra class, go to the meeting for a new club, embrace the conversation with the new person in class. Lean in and try something that scares you – you never know where that might lead.
What did ACEL cultivate in you?
ACEL solidified my passion for youth development and allowed me to better understand how the brain learns best. I had great classes where I learned theory, wonderful labs where I tried things on, and great mentors who embody the connection of theory to delivery. Because of this, ACEL prepared me to be a better teacher inside and outside of the classroom.
Jenna with some of her Sigma Alpha sisters in college.
Ms. Jenson with some of her students at Valleyview High School.
Cheering for the Buckeyes during and Ohio State football game.
Cheering for the Buckeyes with fellow agricultural educator and ACEL alumn, Mrs. Ringler.