Month: May 2022

ACEL Outstanding Senior: Maddy Schupp

The Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership (ACEL) has named 13 students to the 2022 class of ACEL Outstanding Seniors. These students were selected by the faculty and staff of the department for their excellence both in and out of the classroom. Maddy Schupp, an agricultural communication major from New Philadelphia, Ohio, was named as one of ACEL’s Outstanding Seniors for 2022.

Read about Maddy’s Ohio State experience below.

Why did you choose your major?
I experienced the gap between farmers and consumers after educating a large array of consumers about the pork industry as the Tuscarawas County Pork Queen while I was in high school. I feel consumers should have confidence and understanding of the products they purchase at the grocery store. I choose the Agricultural Communications major to help consumers understand agricultural practices and production.

Why did you choose to attend Ohio State?
I chose to start my college career at Ohio State ATI in Wooster, Ohio which allowed me to start college close to home on a smaller hands-on campus. I fell in love with the ATI campus after competing in livestock judging contests and numerous college tours in high school. ATI offered the transition between high school and college that I needed prior to attending Ohio State’s Columbus campus.

 

What classes did you enjoy the most?
After taking a wide array of course at Ohio State some of my favorites included sales classes, public speaking classes, and graphic design. But never be scared to try something new with an elective, I truly enjoyed Barbque Science and Yoga.

What student organizations were you involved in and what roles did you hold within those organizations?
During my time at The Ohio State University, I was a member of the Sisterhood Committee of the Sigma Alpha Professional Sorority. In addition, I was a member of the Meat Science Club where I served as the secretary. I was also able to volunteer as on Project Advisor for the Valley Showstoppers 4-H Club in Tuscarawas County.

What internships did you complete and what were your responsibilities/projects as an intern?
Last summer I completed a Sales and Marketing internship with Schlessman Seed company in Milan, Ohio. With this internship, I was able to enhance my knowledge in seed and crop production by managing research plots and working alongside their salesmen. During my internship, I was able to design the cover of their seed catalog and field day invitations. My internship allowed me to apply skills taught within my courses to real life.

What stands out as your best college memory?
I had so many wonderful memories throughout my college career, but meeting my fiancee will always be my favorite memory.

How did the pandemic impact your college experience? Is there anything you missed because of it?
The pandemic had a large impact on the end of my college experience, but it definitely changes my outlook on life. You never know what tomorrow will bring, so dont wait until tomorrow to do the things you could do today. I missed out on many irreplaceable in-person college and experiences on the Columbus campus.

2022 ACEL Outstanding Senior: Alexa Rednour

The Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership (ACEL) has named 13 students to the 2022 class of ACEL Outstanding Seniors. These students were selected by the faculty and staff of the department for their excellence both in and out of the classroom. Alexa Rednour, an agriscience education major from Middletown, Ohio, was named as one of ACEL’s Outstanding Seniors for 2022.

Read about Alexa’s Ohio State experience below.

 

Why did you choose your major?
I chose agriscience education as my major due to my involvement in FFA during high school. I had always had an interest in agriculture and the impact it plays on the world. I chose to take an ag class my sophomore year and never looked back, this class not only allowed me to grow my knowledge of agricultural topics but also helped me to grow as a person and become more confident in myself as well as teaching me life skills such as public speaking record keeping, and more which I can carry with me the rest of my life. After being apart of ag classes and the Edgewood FFA chapter I realized that I wanted to make the same impact on the future generations that my Ag teacher and others had made on me. Along with this agriscience education has such a diverse learning environment that can help many students who may feel left out from “traditional” education classes feel as though they are at home. Agriscience Education has changed my life for the better and I hope to bring the same passion and knowledge to my future students so that we may build a stronger understanding of the importance of agriculture within daily lives and see that anyone can be a part of the industry regardless of background or interest.

Why did you choose to attend Ohio State?
I chose Ohio State due to the many opportunities and experiences that I could experience within a university with such a rich history in agriculture. Ohio State has many great programs within agriculture and I knew that by choosing to attend I would have those opportunities that could allow me to grow my knowledge as well as giving me chances to network with professionals and my peers. Along with this, I felt as though Ohio State had the atmosphere that I desired where people took pride in where they went and took that pride with them when they left, I could be proud to say I am a Buckeye and feel as though I am part of more than just a school.

What classes did you enjoy the most?
The classes I enjoyed the most were meat science, welding, barbeque science and teaching methods. In the meat science class I was able to learn so much not only about the basics of the meat industry but also common misconceptions, different cultures beliefs, scientific factors, laws and regulations, and proper handling and safety factors. Welding allowed me to get hands on experience of a trade that many people may underestimate when thinking of how important and skilled the profession is. Trade schools are often looked down upon but while taking welding it made it even more clear how important it is for these trades to exist and to be taken seriously. Barbeque science was my other favorite class that I have ever taken at Ohio State. I took this my senior year and was able to learn about all things BBQ related from proper food temps, cutting and choosing specific types of meat, brines/seasonings/sauces, grilling, and smoking meats, vegetables, and even fruits. This class was enjoyable actually taught a lot of important skills that you can use in your everyday life.

What student organizations were you involved in and what roles did you hold within those organizations?
At Ohio State I was apart of the Agricultural Education Society where I was apart of the Banquet Committee where we planned all aspects of the annual banquet for the organization.

What internships did you complete and what were your responsibilities?
I am currently completing my student teaching at Versailles High School in Versailles, Ohio. I am responsible for creating weekly lesson plans, projects, units, and other aspects of teaching and assisting with FFA related activities such as SAE visits, Career Development Events (CDEs), and more.

What do you plan to do after graduation?
After graduation, I plan at having my own agriscience education classroom with a High school and possibly middle school program where I can help students find their passion for agriculture while guiding them in the direction of success and to show them that they can reach their goals and potential.

What stands out as your best college memory?
My best college memory would be attending the Ohio FFA Camp at Camp Muskingum alongside my agriscience education peers. We were able to create lessons, teach and interact with students with disabilities. This memory is my best as it was an amazing opportunity to be with the students and learn about them, their lives, experiences, interests, and goals for themselves. It was extremely rewarding to get to connect with the students as well as get to know my peers better and build those relationships that not only helped during the short time we were there but will aid with my future students. It was a great opportunity that I really enjoyed and allowed me to build my connections, teaching choices, and leadership skills.

How did the pandemic impact your college experience?
The pandemic has impacted my college experience in a way that I would have never expected. One of the biggest things I missed out on were having the hands-on opportunities within my classes that I normally would have gotten to do such as visiting farms and schools. I also missed out on some of the athletic events and the “normal” college experience that others have gotten. Although this occurred, I still have enjoyed my experience and think that my time at Ohio State has given me many experiences and opportunities that will help me in my future.

AAAE National Conference: Paper Sessions

At the 2022 American Association for Agricultural Education (AAAE) Annual Conference, our ACEL faculty and graduate students presented their research during research paper sessions. Those participating include:

“Describing Ingroup Prejudices Exhibited by School-Based Agricultural Education Teachers and Prejudice Predictive Demographics”
PhD student Colby Gregg and Dr. Amanda Bowling

“Examining How Alternatively Certified Teachers Participate in Agricultural Education Community of Practice”
Dr. Kellie Claflin et al.

“Teachers Perceptions of Administrator Actions in COVID-19 and Its Impact on Emotional Exhaustion: A Moderation Analysis of Teacher Self Efficacy”
PhD student Colby Gregg, PhD student Katrina Swinehart Held, PhD student Justin Pulley, PhD student Stephanie Jolliff, Dr. Amanda Bowling and Dr. Tracy Kitchel

“School-based agricultural education teachers’ lived experiences and motivational factors amid COVID-19”
PhD student Colby Gregg, Dr. Amanda Bowling and PhD student Rachael Ramsier

Graduate students and faculty present posters at AAAE annual conference

At the 2022 American Association for Agricultural Education (AAAE) Annual Conference, our ACEL faculty and graduate students presented their research during a number of poster sessions. Those participating include:

“Breaking News! Cultivating Cultural Proficient Conversations Using Media Outlets”
PhD student Rafael Landaverde, master’s student Erica Summerfield, Dr. Mary Rodriguez and Dr. Annie Specht

“Marauder Agricultural Scholarship Program – Boosting Course Enrollment”
PhD student Katrina Swinehart Held, et el.

“Planning to Grow: Grading Preservice Lesson Plans with a Growth Mindset”
PhD student Hannah Parker, Dr. Amanda Bowling, PhD student Justin Pulley, and Dr. Kellie Claflin

“Taking Tractor Safety to the Virtual Limit”
PhD student Justin Pulley and Dr. Dee Jepsen

“#ScienceHug: An Examination of Twitter Science Communication Engagement”
Master’s student Sarah Thomas and Dr. Joy Rumble

“Addressing Food Systems Issues Through Youth Engagement: An Ohio Case Study”
Master’s student Kameron Rinehart, Dr. Amanda Bowling and Dr. Jera Niewoehner-Green

“Unmasking Audiences: A Cluster Analysis of Ohio 4-H Parents’ Believes about Masking Wearing”
Dr. Joy Rumble, Dr. Cara Lawson and PhD student Alyssa Rockers

“Food Labeling: An Examination of Bioengineered Food Disclosures”
Master’s student Madison Dyment, Dr. Joy Rumble, et al.

2022 ACEL Outstanding Senior: Ashley Garlick


 The Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership (ACEL) has named 13 students to the 2022 class of ACEL Outstanding Seniors. These students were selected by the faculty and staff of the department for their excellence both in and out of the classroom. Ashley Garlick, an agriscience education major, was named as one of ACEL’s Outstanding Seniors for 2022.

Read about Ashley’s Ohio State experience below.

Why did you choose your major?
I chose my major very last minute. As a high school student, I was taking CCP classes at the University of Toledo. For a science credit, I decided to take an introduction to Environmental Science. During one class, he asked the group as a whole, “Why are we here?” In that moment for some reason, I stopped and looked at him. The tone he used caught my attention. Some students tried to guess the answer, but he kept telling us we were close. He stood in the middle of the room, looks around for a second at all of us, and states, “We are here to help.” In that moment, I knew that the years of my Grandma Loeffler telling me I would be a great teacher and my love for agriculture from my family’s farm would lead me in my pursuit to help people by teaching agriculture.

Why did you choose to attend Ohio State?
I chose to attend Ohio State ATI first. I was nervous to move to a large school, but I needed a school that had my major of choice. ATI seemed like the best fit. During my two years there, I was very sad to leave. I was nervous about life in the big city of Columbus, but in these two short years, I have learned to love both schools. Attending Ohio State ATI and Main Campus was the best thing that could have happened to me.

What classes did you enjoy the most?
My favorite class by far was either my Agriculture Current Issues or Education Psychology. I have always loved to learn, but these classes were so interesting and well taught that I continue to find ways to learn the things we covered.

What student organizations were you involved in (locally and nationally) and what roles did you hold within those organizations (if applicable)?
During my time at ATI, I helped establish the ACELT club that was specific to my department. In my second year there, I was able to hold the Vice President position. When I transitioned to the Columbus campus, I joined Agriculture Education Society. This past year, I was the Committee Chair for Education and Outreach.

What internships did you complete and what were your responsibilities/projects as an intern?
I completed three total internships during my time at Ohio State. My first internship was through the Ohio Soybean Council as a Grown Next Gen intern. In this position, I was responsible for attending events at fairs and schools all over Ohio teaching about agriculture. I helped teach at places like the Ohio State Fair. My next two internships were with Wilbur-Ellis Agribusiness. My first year, I was an Operations Intern. My job responsibilities included counting inventory, receiving customer orders, and delivering chemicals/seed to farmers. My position was stationed in Dundee, Michigan. During this time, I created a summer project where I made a small activity for branch employees to complete a role reversal activity. This allowed them to step into a new position in a relaxed environment for a couple hours and broaden their knowledge on co-workers’ daily tasks. In the next summer, they rehired me to be the Heartland Intern (KS, NE, IA, MI, TX, and OH). During this time, I was able to travel to complete my role reversal activity with other branches in my region. I was also tasked with working with a team to create two new structured internships. One position I held that was not an internship was at Ohio State ATI where I worked in the engineering wing. I was able to be the tool room assistant where I grew my knowledge in tool identification, small engine repair, metal fabrication, and welding.

 

What do you plan to do after graduation?
After graduation, I hope to have a position as an Agriculture Educator in Ohio.

What stands out as your best college memory?
My best college memory is hard to choose. I had such an amazing time that I think I would not do my time justice by only picking one.

How did the pandemic impact your college experience? Is there anything you missed because of it?
I think I truly missed the opportunity to be a Columbus Campus student. During my first year here, I could not truly emerge into the life of a student down here. My classes were mostly online, and we had no in person events.

2022 ACEL Outstanding Senior: Hannah Ziegler

The Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership (ACEL) has named 13 students to the 2022 class of ACEL Outstanding Seniors. These students were selected by the faculty and staff of the department for their excellence both in and out of the classroom. Hannah Ziegler, an agricultural communication major, was named as one of ACEL’s Outstanding Seniors for 2022.

Read about Hannah’s Ohio State experience below.

Why did you choose your major?
I chose to study agricultural communication because I wanted to make a difference within the industry by promoting the next generation of agriculture enthusiasts through verbal and written communication.

Why did you choose to attend Ohio State?
I chose to attend Ohio State because I wanted to pave a Scarlet and Gray legacy as a first generation college student. Being a Buckeye has allowed me to explore new opportunities and excel academically.

What classes did you enjoy the most?
I enjoyed English 2260H with Dr. Stuart Lishan, Communication 2110 with Dr. Erin Armstrong, Animal Science 3130 with Dr. Benjamin Wenner, Animal Science 3307 with Ms. Bonnie Ayars, Agriculture Communication 5130 with Mr. Thomas Stewart, Agriculture Communication 5135.01 with Dr. Emily Buck, and Agriculture Communication 4130 with Dr. Annie Specht.

What student organizations were you involved in?
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic, I have not been as involved with student organizations as I had initially hoped to be. However, I have served the Buckeye Dairy Club at the 2021 Buckeye Classic Sale and Spring Dairy Expo, and I have been involved with the Towers Agricultural Honorary which has allowed me to build lasting friendships.

What internships did you complete and what were your responsibilities/projects as an intern?
I have previously completed internships at Kalmbach Feeds INC (logistics/supply chain, customer service, and nutrition) and Ohio Beef Council (social media and marketing). Currently I am a social events intern at Ohio Pork Council, where I am responsible for creating signage and promoting producer and consumer events.

What do you plan to do after graduation?
I am planning to return home upon graduation with the goal of carrying on my family’s five-generation farm as my primary responsibility.

What stands out as your best college memory?
My favorite memory of being a student at Ohio State was sitting on the couch at 2390 with my best friends Abby, Emily, Kayla, and Megan telling jokes, watching movies, and day-dreaming about our future plans!

How did the pandemic impact your college experience? Is there anything you missed because of it?
The COVID-19 Pandemic limited how involved I could be with on-campus activities. I wish I would’ve been able to experience more as a student, but I understand that everything happens for a reason!

 

2022 ACEL Outstanding Senior: Abby David

The Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership (ACEL) has named 13 students to the 2022 class of ACEL Outstanding Seniors. These students were selected by the faculty and staff of the department for their excellence both in and out of the classroom. Abby David, a community leadership major, was chosen as an ACEL Outstanding Senior.

Read about Abby’s Ohio State experience below.

Why did you choose your major?
I chose my major because I realized my passion was to help build better communities. My community has done so much for me and has substantially influenced my life, so I want to be a person that can lead, love, and be a part of a community like my own. Also, I love helping and educating people, being a leader, and loved growing up in my county’s 4-H program, all of which made this major an obvious choice for me.

Why did you choose to attend Ohio State?
I chose to attend Ohio State for both the agricultural program and the ample opportunities it offered me. A lot of my family has also attended Ohio State for agriculture, so it was nice to be a part of that tradition.

What classes did you enjoy the most?
The classes I enjoyed the most were History of Rock and Roll, Amish Society, and my community development courses. I enjoyed being able to explore concepts I already loved and apply them academically, while also learning so much more. I was always excited to go to these lectures! My community development courses in particular sparked my passions and have influenced where I plan to head in my life.

What student organizations were you involved in?
I was involved with the Agricultural Education Society (AES) and Collegiate 4-H. In AES, I was the Education and Outreach chairman for a year, and then became the club’s reporter. I also became an Exploration Peer Mentor this past semester and participated in athletic band, university band, and university chorus throughout my years here.

What internships did you complete and what were your responsibilities/projects as an intern?
I completed an internship with the Ohio Sea Grant in my county. I mostly observed during my time there, but helped with projects such as making a boating video, being a part of a documentary, electrofishing at Stone Lab, and participating in a beach cleanup. I was also given opportunities to teach lessons at Stone Lab and at a middle school summer program.

What do you plan to do after graduation?
My plan for graduation is to apply for AmeriCorps positions in Michigan, Ohio, or West Virginia, particularly focused on food security and farming non-profits. Once I have more hands-on experience through AmeriCorps, I will attend graduate school to complete a master’s degree.

What stands out as your best college memory?
My best college memory is when my friend and I got last minute tickets to see Fleetwood Mac! I had to go to concerts for my History of Rock and Roll class, so we both took the opportunity to see this legendary band. It felt like we could almost fall out of the seats because they were so high up, but it was so worth it. Best concert I’ve been to!

How did the pandemic impact your college experience?
The pandemic mostly made it harder to make close friends and explore the city, but I am still very thankful for the time I had. I think I missed out on going to more concerts and big events that could have been very fun.

2022 ACEL Outstanding Senior: Joanna Frankenberg

The Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership (ACEL) has named 13 students to the 2022 class of ACEL Outstanding Seniors. These students were selected by the faculty and staff of the department for their excellence both in and out of the classroom. Joanna Frankenberg, an agricultural communication major, was named as one of ACEL’s Outstanding Seniors for 2022.

Read about Joanna’s Ohio State experience below.

Why did you choose your major?
I chose to major in agricultural communication to bridge the gap from producers to consumers. I want to help communicate producers’ perspective from the industry while building an understanding to those without the agriculture background.

Why did you choose to attend Ohio State?
I chose to attend Ohio State because my parents are both alumni and growing up, they exposed me to the culture that felt like a community and home.

What classes did you enjoy the most?
I enjoyed classes that were applicable to the real world and helped me further my skills inside and outside the classroom. I like to learn about designing, photography and writing.

What student organizations were you involved in?
Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow – President, CFAES Peer Mentor, Alpha Zeta Partners – Social Committee, Sigma Alpha – Secretary, BuckeyeThon

What internships did you complete and what were your responsibilities/projects as an intern?
STGenetics, Ohio Cattlemen’s Association, COBA/Select Sires, Ayrshire Breeders’ Association

What do you plan to do after graduation?
I will be the communications coordinator at COBA/Select Sires.

What stands out as your best college memory?
One of my favorite Ohio State memories is joining in the on a snowball fight and sledding on the oval my junior year of college after a winter snow.

How did the pandemic impact your college experience? Is there anything you missed because of it?
During the pandemic I missed out on a lot of college experiences. I missed studying aboard within my major to Scotland/England as well as with Alpha Zeta Partners to Brazil.



2022 ACEL Outstanding Senior: Maryellen Bliss

The Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership (ACEL) has named 13 students to the 2022 class of ACEL Outstanding Seniors. These students were selected by the faculty and staff of the department for their excellence both in and out of the classroom. Maryellen Bliss, a senior studying agriscience education, was named as one of ACEL’s Outstanding Seniors for 2022.

Read about Maryellen’s Ohio State experience below.

Why did you choose your major?
My time in the Hillsdale FFA Chapter opened my eyes to the possibilities and importance that the agriculture industry has to offer. As I juggled many ideas for what I wanted to do, being in agriculture education allows me to combine my passions of working with people and growing my knowledge of agriculture that I can teach to future generations.

Why did you choose to attend Ohio State?
From a young age, I knew the spirit of the Buckeyes because my family have always been big OSU sports fans and in high school, I put it at the top of my college lists. After the tour of the Columbus campus my junior year of I couldn’t picture myself anywhere else as atmosphere of campus felt like I had found my second home and I had the opportunity to be in a nationally recognized agriculture education program.

What classes did you enjoy the most?
The classes that I enjoyed the most taking were my courses about environmental science. I took 3 different courses where I was able to learn the scientific basics, historical background, and how society intersects with our natural resources.

What student organizations were you involved in?
At Ohio State I have been involved with the Kellogg-Moser Food Security and Sustainability Learning Community and Collegiate Farm Bureau. In the Agricultural Education Society, I served as the CFAES representative, treasurer, and president. I have been actively involved in Jacob’s Porch Lutheran Campus Ministry and was the student board president. I currently am honored to serve as a 2021-22 NAAE National Teach Ag Ambassador.

What internships did you complete and what were your responsibilities/projects as an intern?
In the 2019 fall semester, I was enrolled in the Early Field Experience for the agriscience major. My placement site was Global Impact STEM Academy observing the biotechnology course. During this internship, I observed classes and was able to interact with students in the classroom and FFA setting through the mindset of a teacher with the guidance of my cooperating educator.

In 2019 I worked the summer for ExploreAg Camps where students come to a college campus and are immersed in hands-on learning that exposes them to a multitude of careers in agriculture, including those careers in STEM.My duties included organizing ice breakers, facilitating five Ag Challenge presentation groups each week to connect knowledge of experiences with current wicked problems, having enthusiasm, and ensuring participants safety.

I was the 2021 Franklin County Farm Bureau Fellow. I assisted with day-to-day office responsibilities and summer programing with Central OH Young Ag Professionals. I created #MemberBenefitsMonday where posts gave a membership benefit spotlight to the advantages that come with being a Farm Bureau member. I also was working in the community at the downtown Pearl Market and Franklin County Fair to spread the word about Farm Bureau.

What do you plan to do after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to use my experiences and knowledge to start out my career as a high school agricultural instructor and FFA advisor in a program somewhere in Ohio!

What stands out as your best college memory?
My best college memory during my freshman year and attending the 2018 OSU vs. that team up North football game with my roommate, Jenny. My first ever OSU football game was this same match up when I was younger with my grandpa and the energy felt in the stadium is unmatched. On top of the win and getting to go on the field, the icing on the cake was standing in the student section and getting on the jumbotron.

How did the pandemic impact your college experience? 
My idea of the “typical” college experience shifted because of the pandemic as I had to take some Zoom classes and hanging out with people that weren’t my roommates involved a lot of screens. I missed getting to be at football games my junior year but being back in The Shoe for my last season as a Buckeye was so electric and meaningful as I didn’t want to take a single play for granted.

2022 ACEL Outstanding Senior: Maddie Allman

The Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership (ACEL) has named 13 students to the 2022 class of ACEL Outstanding Seniors. These students were selected by the faculty and staff of the department for their excellence both in and out of the classroom. Maddie Allman, a senior studying community leadership with a specialization in community and extension education, was named as one of ACEL’s Outstanding Seniors for 2022.

Read about Maddie’s Ohio State experience below.

Why did you choose your major?
Much of who I am is because of my involvement with the Ohio 4-H program. 4-H introduced me to Extension work and sparked my passion for non-formal education and youth development. Because of 4-H, I was introduced to CFAES and Ohio State, in which I fell in love. If it were not for my involvement in the 4-H program, I wholeheartedly believe I would not be where I am today. I aspire to be a 4-H Extension Educator and have used the extensive network CFAES offers to learn more about my career path, engage with administration, and gain necessary skills I will need in the future. Hopefully one day I can inspire youth just like me to attend higher education through Extension programs.

Why did you choose to attend Ohio State?
Ohio State was the only school I applied to in which I had to pay an application fee. Ohio State was my first and only choice. I knew from the beginning that this was my home, and I was so right. Ohio State, being the land-grant institution that facilitates Ohio 4-H Youth Development and Ohio State Extension, was the best option for what I wanted to do. I knew that I would be set up for success here, make incredible connections, memories, and truly learn about my future profession.

What classes did you enjoy the most?
My favorite classes were my Rural Sociology classes. Many of them challenged me to work hard – especially RURLSOC 4500 (S/O Dr. Campbell) – but I truly fell in love with community development work because of them. They inspired my undergraduate research and gave me more tools to keep in my community leadership toolbox.

What student organizations were you involved in and what roles did you hold within those organizations?
During my time at Ohio State, I have been involved with a multitude of organizations and experiences that have shaped my college experience. My involvements include:

  • 2021 Homecoming Court
  • Undergraduate Research
  • The Buckeyes First Student Organization (Director of Community Outreach and Founding Executive Member)
  • The Buckeye Leadership Fellows program
  • Community Leadership student representative on the ACEL Alumni Board
  • Ohio State Honors & Scholars as an Arts Scholar
  • Alpha Zeta Partners Agricultural Leadership Honorary (and Brazil Study Abroad)
  • The 115th Class of the SPHINX Senior Honorary (Secretary)
  • Ohio 4-H Youth Development Student Program Assistant
  • National 4-H Conference Roundtable Facilitator
  • Ohio 4-H Teen Leadership Council Vice President of Outreach (2018-2019)
  • Ohio 4-H Teen Leadership Council Junior Advisor (2019-2020)
  • Collegiate 4-H at The Ohio State University (President)

What internships did you complete and what were your responsibilities/projects as an intern?
I have worked as a student assistant at the Nationwide & Ohio Farm Bureau 4-H Center since January 2019. This experience has truly shaped me as a person and future professional and I am so thankful to have gotten the opportunity to work for the organization I love. I support all Ohio 4-H state staff members with their programs including but not limited to the Ohio State Fair, Ohio 4-H State Leadership Camp and other camping programs, OMK and Healthy Living programs, Ohio 4-H Teen Leadership and Older Youth Opportunities, Ohio 4-H STEM, and Ohio 4-H Administration. I’ve done everything from writing lesson plans and contributing to new and revised 4-H project books to sorting office supplies. I typically answer the phone at the 4-H Center, so if you ever have questions about Ohio 4-H programs, call me!

As a student assistant with Ohio 4-H, I have worked in a variety of roles including as the Ohio 4-H International Program Student Assistant in 2019. For around nine months, I specifically worked to support Ohio 4-H international initiatives and coordinated 4-H youth exchange programs to countries like Norway, Costa Rica, and Japan. I was able to successfully coordinate our largest program, the Labo Japanese Exchange program, and bring 75 Japanese youth and adults to stay with Ohio 4-H families over the summer.

Last summer I was hired by Logan County OSU Extension as a 4-H Youth Development summer intern. I had the most incredible time working with Logan County and bringing new things into their program. This past summer, Logan County 4-H had a lot of firsts including their first ever livestock project book evaluations AND county overnight 4-H camp. We had a very small staff, so it was incredible to see us introduce so many new things over the summer and have a successful program year. I am very passionate about 4-H camping programs, so to assist with Logan County’s first ever overnight camp was an awesome learning experience.

Currently, I am completing my COMLDR 5380 senior internship program. My internship consists of my work at the Ohio 4-H Center and the Franklin County OSU Extension Office. I am excited to be working with Margo Long, Ohio 4-H Workforce Development and Pathways to the Future Program Manager, on new 4-H workforce development initiatives. My “big project” for the semester is to research and develop a campus experience program for eighth grade students to learn about potential programs and careers to explore at Ohio State. As part of my project, I am working with Margo and CFAES admins to establish a program that allows Ohio 4-H members to receive college credits for their 4-H project work. It’s very exciting and I am so honored to be a part of it!

This semester I am also working with Franklin County 4-H to learn more about urban 4-H programming, after-school programming, and 4-H SPIN clubs. I have yet to really work with an urban community, so I am excited to learn more about urban 4-H programs and navigate the rural-urban interface. I will be heading up Franklin County’s CARTEENS program and developing animal science SPIN clubs to teach urban youth about agriculture.

What do you plan to do after graduation?
After graduation, I hope to pursue a career in Extension Education. I also plan to pursue a master’s degree in ACEL with a specialization in Community & Extension Education. I hope to continue my research on Appalachian community development and hope to expand upon my current findings from my undergraduate research project. I’m also hoping to travel to as many U.S. National Parks while I have the time post-graduation,

What stands out as your best college memory?
Serving on the 2021 Ohio State University Homecoming Court. I will never forget the incredible experience of stepping onto the football field with over 100,000 screaming fans looking at me. The support I received from my Ohio State community while fundraising on behalf of Ohio 4-H as a member of the Court is something I’ll never forget, and I’m so grateful I got to be just one of 20 students to experience it. The bonds I made between myself and my fellow Court members can never be broken, and I am so thankful for the new family The Ohio State University has given me. Being a member of the Homecoming Court is a memory I’ll cherish forever.

How did the pandemic impact your college experience?
The pandemic has taken so much of my college experience away from me and I am so willfully sorry for myself and my fellow seniors about it. I missed so much – from receiving and being recognized for awards, to not experiencing regular traditions for organizations, and so much more. I missed celebrating my boyfriend’s graduation from college, receiving my CFAES Award for Outstanding Student Employee, and traditions Homecoming Courts and Inductees into the SPHINX Senior Honorary normally expe

 

rience. I lost internship opportunities, valuable in-person learning experiences, and meaningful student org connections. I truly feel that extracurriculars have suffered due to the pandemic and I worry for the future of many clubs and organization at Ohio State including my own.