By Gracie Sprague

A seed doesn’t grow overnight. It needs the right conditions—good soil, steady care, and a little patience—to take root and flourish. As students preparing for careers in agriculture, our journey mirrors this process. Real growth takes opportunity, mentorship, and the courage to step outside our comfort zones. 

That’s why events like Night for Young Professionals (NYP) hold value. NYP is an annual professional development event hosted by the Agricultural Communicators, Educators, and Leaders of Tomorrow (ACELT) Club at Ohio State ATI, designed to connect students with industry leaders to cultivate networking and career skills.  

In addition to classroom lectures and hands-on lab experiences, an event like NYP takes it one step further. It provides students with real experience, real connections, and real confidence. Planning this event involved navigating logistics, collaborating with industry professionals, and seeing firsthand what it takes to bring an idea to life. For attendees, it was an opportunity to step forward, introduce ourselves to leaders in the field, and start building a future beyond college.

The best part of the event? The advice from professionals who have been where we are now. Here are ten standout takeaways from the NYP presentations: 

1. “How do you differentiate yourself?” – Phillip Farmer, Tennessee Farmers Cooperative
   → Own what makes you unique. 
2. “Raise your hand. Rise to the top by raising your hand and be willing to do one more push-up than everyone else.” – Phillip Farmer, Tennessee Farmers Cooperative
   → Initiative and effort set you apart. 
3. “You interview them as much as they interview you.” – Karen Alsop, Centerra Co-op
   → The right job is about fit, not just an offer.
4. “Every opportunity to meet someone new: take advantage of it. Put yourself out there, even if it feels uncomfortable.” – Karen Alsop, Centerra Co-op
   → Say yes, shake hands, and start conversations. 
5. “There is nothing wrong with admitting ‘I don’t know.’ What matters is how you respond to that statement.” – Karen Alsop, Centerra Co-op
   → Be willing to learn; that’s what truly matters.  
6. “You are exactly where you are supposed to be for a reason. It may not seem exciting, but foundational skills are essential.” – Micah Mensing, Farm Credit Mid-America
   → Every experience builds toward something bigger. 
7. “Genuine always outweighs perfection.” – Micah Mensing, Farm Credit Mid-America
   → People connect with authenticity. 
8. “I can’t teach you to be a good person. Show up, be personable, and work hard.” – David Marrison, OSU Extension
   → Hard work and kindness will take you far. 
9. “Be present in all you do. When you are present, you will be successful.” – David Marrison, OSU Extension
   → Focus on the moment; give it your best effort. 
10. “Bet on yourself. No one else can get you where you want to be.” – Todd Pugh, Enviroscapes
    → Confidence is the first crucial step to success. 

By Brayden Hayes

I started my agribusiness degree at Ohio State ATI and am preparing to transition to the Columbus campus this fall. Starting at ATI had its perks as it is a small campus compared to Columbus. Two years ago, when I chose to come to ATI, I was nervous like most about beginning college. I was intimidated by living on my own and not having the safety net of my parents as it was completely new to me. Gearing up for Columbus, I feel similar to what I did two years ago when I came to ATI. I will have to learn a new city and find my niche group again. I have taken many steps to make this process less stressful.  

First, I looked for a house in Columbus in the fall a year before moving. I chose to live off-campus and rent a house with two other students. It is important to do this early so you can get a house in the location you want and also not pay an arm and a leg. Starting this process early has really been beneficial as it gives me time to get all my lease stuff around and to shop around for a house that was best for me.  

After securing my housing in Columbus, I figured out the next big thing, my classes. I also did not wait to do this. I got in touch with the agribusiness advisor in Columbus to help me schedule my classes for the fall. I recommend doing this early as the class selection may be more competitive than at ATI. So, with my classes figured out, as well as housing, you’d think that I would be ready for the move.  

I have continued to take additional steps in helping me feel more comfortable in the move. Cate Hunko, the transition counselor at ATI, has been a great resource in helping me get ready. I have had several meetings with her to answer questions about the transition. Also, ATI sponsors a visit to the Columbus campus in the spring. This day is focused on helping students better understand the transition and resources in Columbus. During this day students tour campus, learn the bus system, and feel more comfortable about the transition when they leave. I went on this trip as a freshman and sophomore. Doing this helped me know where some of my classes would be and get a feel for the campus.  

Taking all these steps has really helped me in feeling better about going to Columbus. Any chance I get, I will try to go to the Columbus campus. Every time I go there, I feel more comfortable about the transition. For anyone transiting to the Columbus campus, I think this is important. If you can visit Columbus, I would recommend it. The more times you go, the better you will feel. It is important to remember that all the students who are also transitioning are probably feeling the same way you are and have the same questions. So, navigating the transition with friends you have made at ATI can also help relieve the uncertainty.  

By Forrest Lang, ASM Program Coordinator

One of the most common questions I hear from students and parents is, “What is Agricultural Systems Management?” It’s a question I asked myself as an undergrad when I switched from Agricultural Engineering to Agricultural Systems Management during my first year of college.

If you ask the artificial intelligence, you’ll get a definition like this:

“Agricultural Systems Management (ASM) focuses on optimizing agricultural productivity by integrating technology, data analysis, and engineering principles to improve the efficiency of farming operations, equipment, and resource management. ASM professionals bridge the gap between agricultural science and practical application, enhancing farm performance through innovations in machinery, precision agriculture, and environmental sustainability.”

That’s a solid definition, but let’s break it down.

ASM is all about hands-on problem-solving in the agricultural industry. It’s a program that equips students with practical skills and technical knowledge across a wide range of topics. Our students learn to connect concepts across courses, developing critical thinking skills that help them tackle real-world challenges. Think of it as applied engineering—using agricultural principles and technological advancements to improve processes, develop solutions, and optimize systems. It is a program that will allow students to become a well rounded agricultural professional whether they are going into industry or moving back home to manage the family farm.

The second most common question I hear is, “What careers do ASM graduates pursue?” The best answer? Almost anything in the agricultural industry.

As an ASM graduate, I became a teacher—but not before completing several internships in the grain handling industry and spending time researching machinery performance. My classmates took many different paths:

• One started a welding business
• Another launched a seed dealership
• One built a drone spraying company
• Others became agronomists, research managers, or precision technology technicians at equipment dealerships
• Some work in livestock management, environmental conservation, and natural resource management
• Many have returned to their family farms, applying new knowledge to advance their operations

These are just a few examples of the diverse career opportunities available to ASM graduates.

At Ohio State ATI, we emphasize hands-on, applied learning, ensuring that students gain real-world experience with the equipment and technologies they’ll use in their careers. Students in our program install guidance systems on UTVs; operate planters, tillage tools, and combines; learn various types of welding from stick to TIG; gain experience troubleshooting hydraulic, electric, and engine systems; and learn the fundamentals of business and machinery management.

Whether you’re interested in agricultural technology, precision farming, agribusiness, or sustainability, ASM provides the tools to help you succeed. I’m always looking to connect with students, faculty, and industry partners to grow our program and support the next generation of agricultural professionals. If you’re interested in learning more about ASM and how it can help shape your future, reach out—I’d love to talk!

By Derick Findley

Are you searching for the right college for you? Do weekdays not work for a visit? Well, you are in luck, as Ohio State ATI hosts open houses that take place on a Saturday morning. This event is perfect for discovering the opportunities that make ATI a unique place to pursue your academics. Whether you are a senior still looking or a younger student getting a head start, you and your family are welcome to attend an open house. This event is designed to help you navigate and prepare for your college journey. 

What to Expect During the Open House?

Opening Session with Dave Dietrich, Director of Admissions The event will kick off with a welcoming session led by Dave Dietrich. Dave will walk you through the admissions process, covering everything from the application process to acceptance, and all the things you need to know when applying to ATI. He will discuss what you need to know before becoming a Buckeye. Whether you have already applied or are just beginning to consider college, Dave will help you feel confident and prepared as you move forward in your college process.

Financial Aid with Liz Helterbrand, Financial Aid Coordinator After Dave’s admissions information, Liz will take the stage to talk about financial aid and scholarships. She’ll cover the different options and important dates for FAFSA, scholarships, grants, and loans. Navigating financial aid can be very overwhelming, especially if you are like me, a first-generation college student. She breaks everything down in ways anyone can understand to ensure you are maximizing your financial options.

Student Life with Kelly Kyser, Supervisor, Student Leadership, Engagement and Activities Kelly from Student Life will take the stage after Liz with the loudest OH – IO! She will share all the exciting events and activities that take place here at Ohio State ATI. Everything from clubs and organizations to wellness events. She will give you a look at what being a Buckeye is all about. She will then give out FREE swag, as she does every week for current students.

Major Session Breakouts with Professors After the opening sessions, you will be able to attend two different major-specific sessions that interest you. Whether you are interested in animal science, turfgrass, agricultural communication, etc., you can gain more information about that major and meet a few of your potential professors. These sessions are designed to help you better understand what it’s like to study at Ohio State ATI and all the opportunities you will receive as a student.

Campus Tours and Housing Tours After your major sessions, you have the opportunity to go on a tour with me or a fellow student ambassador to explore our beautiful campus. You will receive a first-hand look at ATI and the facilities we have for students. If you would rather only see our campus housing, we have that as an option. 

Why Should You Attend Ohio State ATI’s Open House? The open house gives you the chance to visit the campus in person, ask questions of current students and faculty, and much more. Whether you have already applied or are just starting your search, Ohio State ATI’s Open House is a great way to see if this is the right fit for you. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to visit Ohio State ATI! Join us for the next upcoming open house on Saturday, April 12. I hope to see you there! 

By Lexi Troyer 

College is a world of opportunities, especially for those who actively seek them out. As a high school senior, I was eager to join clubs and campus organizations, but I had no idea how much they would shape my college experience. Now, as a second-year animal sciences major with a specialization in animal biosciences, I look back on my first year with immense gratitude. 

When I first arrived on campus, I didn’t know many people, but I was determined to get involved. In my freshman year, I joined two clubs and took on leadership roles in both. These experiences have enriched my education, connected me to peers and faculty, and shown me how essential it is to step outside your comfort zone. 

1. Ohio State ATI Hoof-N-Hide Club

The first organization I joined was the Hoof-N-Hide Club, an animal science based group that is open to students of all majors. With a
background in 4-H and working with beef cattle, I felt that this club was a perfect fit for me. I served as Treasurer in my first year and am now the Vice President. Hoof-N-Hide gives members experience with animals and leadership roles, all while creating lasting memories. The club is known for hosting its annual livestock judging contest and a barn dance/cookout every April. It offers a fantastic opportunity for anyone interested in animal science to get involved.  

2. Ohio State ATI Pre-Veterinary Club 

As a pre-veterinary student, I also joined the Pre-Veterinary Club, where I’m currently serving my second term as treasurer. This club is designed for students pursuing veterinary careers, offering valuable networking opportunities, mentorship, and hands-on experience. It’s open to all students, regardless of their major, who are interested in veterinary medicine. It’s a great place to find mentorship and enhance your preparedness for veterinary school. 

3. Other Clubs for Networking and Growth 

In my second year, I expanded my involvement to broaden my network. I am an active member of the Agricultural Systems Management Club and the Agricultural Communicators, Educators, and Leaders of Tomorrow (ACELT) Club. 

• The Agricultural Systems Management Club connects students with industry professionals and offers opportunities to learn about internships. Meetings often feature guest speakers and networking opportunities over dinner, making it a great way to stay engaged with the industry while building professional relationships.
• The ACELT Club hosts events like Night for Young Professionals (NYP), where students can network with industry professionals and attend sessions on topics like resume building and professional etiquette. This event also offers exciting door prizes, such as a MacBook and AirPods. 

4. Second Year Transformational Experience Program (STEP) 

Beyond clubs, the Second Year Transformational Experience Program (STEP) has greatly impacted my college experience. STEP allows second-year students to build meaningful relationships with faculty and offers a fellowship of up to $2,000 for hands-on learning projects, such as study abroad or internships, enhancing the educational journey. On behalf of the STEP program, I have the incredible opportunity to visit and explore Washington, D.C. this April, with minimal expenses on my part—just covering the cost of lunches and souvenirs. 

Get Involved! 

Whether you’re joining a club, participating in a professional organization, or applying for STEP, there are countless ways to enhance your college experience at Ohio State ATI. These opportunities not only help you build your resume but also connect you with peers and faculty, provide valuable experiences, and create lasting memories. So, take the leap, get involved and watch your college journey transform into something far more rewarding than you ever expected. 

By Lilly Cappitte

Everyone tells you that when you get to college you finally get to experience true independence. You will get to make your own schedules, choose how to spend your day, and get to experience so many new opportunities. When I arrived at ATI, I did not realize how challenging it would be to navigate those things independently. Coming from high school, where my schedule was determined by bells, to an independent college life was nothing short of a struggle. As someone who is now familiar with the rhythm of ATI, I want to share a few things I wish I knew before stepping on campus.  

At first, I thought college was all about academics. But I quickly realized the importance of building a community and participating in campus life. During the first two weeks on campus, Student Life hosts many Welcome Week activities. This is where I met some of my closest friends. I recommend attending most of these events. Even if you can only be there for thirty minutes, you never know what kind of connections you will make. I have personally met so many people outside of my major, felt more connected to campus, and built relationships. 

Next, college is all about independence and taking the initiative for yourself. In high school, I had a structured routine, and almost every day looked the same. College gives you the responsibility to determine the best use of your time. While there are faculty and advisors to support you, no one is going to hold your hand. It is up to you to determine what to do with your time. Whether it’s socializing, doing homework, or deciding to squeeze in a nap before class –all those decisions contribute to your growth as a person.

Looking back on my first semester here at ATI, I realized the importance of making the most of my college experience, and that it’s not just all about academics. I encourage you to take advantage of new opportunities that come your way, whether it’s attending club meetings, discovering new passions, or even attending campus events. With all this being said, remember that college isn’t just about what you learn, but also about the memories you make and how you grow along the way. 

By Kinze Jaqua

Considering multiple colleges at once? There are many ways to make the most of your campus tour. As a first-year student at Ohio State ATI, I was in the same shoes not that long ago when I was making my college decision. Here are a few key tips when touring a new campus that I discovered during this process that can help you find the campus that fits you best.

Ask Questions – While it might seem self-explanatory to ask questions on your tour, I know that many people do not ask questions when they truly have them. Thinking of a list of questions ahead of time, or even freely asking the questions that you think of throughout your tour will all help you to get a better idea of campus. I am a firm believer that asking questions is the greatest way to get a full understanding of things that you are unsure about.

Picture Yourself on Campus – Being able to picture yourself living and studying on campus throughout your tour is a wonderful way to get a feel for how you would fit into the environment. Here at the Wooster campus, I knew right away that I could see myself studying in the library and living comfortably in the student apartments. Trying to imagine yourself in these spaces and deciding if that experience is what you are looking for on a campus is the best way to tell what physical environment is the best fit for you. 

Get a feel for the Atmosphere and Campus Community – When I did my campus tour at ATI, the first thing that I fell in love with was the community on campus. Throughout my whole tour, I never encountered someone anyone who was not kind and welcoming, which helped to ease my nerves and make me feel more comfortable. During a campus tour, getting a feel for how the atmosphere and community work is a critical part in making the right decision for your fit in college.  

When choosing the campus that feels like the best fit, it is important that you feel comfortable, safe, and welcomed. The best way to get these experiences is by making the most of your campus tour through asking questions, picturing yourself on campus, and getting a feel for the atmosphere. In my experience, taking advantage of these tips during my visit led me to be confident in my decision to attend Ohio State ATI. We cannot wait to see you here on campus to put these skills to the test! 

By Kimber Carney

The summer before your senior year of high school can be an exciting and busy time. It’s important to think about your future college career and prepare for your upcoming senior year. Here is some helpful advice to help you to prepare for your future:

Start Finalizing Your College List

Making a pro-and-con list for each college can help you decide if it’s a contender in your search. I found it helpful to make a list that includes all the things you want in a college. You can compare each college you research to your list of wants and ask questions if you go on tours of different campuses.

Make a Scholarship Spreadsheet

I found it helpful to make a spreadsheet for all my scholarship information. My spreadsheet included the names of scholarships that I applied for, scholarships I still needed to apply for, whether I received the scholarship, and whether I sent a thank-you card. I also added a feature that totaled all the money I received from scholarships, which helped me keep track of my finances and stay motivated to apply for more. Here is a downloadable version of the spreadsheet for your use.

Visit Campuses

Visiting each campus that you are curious about can help you get a better sense of the community on campus, and it can help you see whether you can picture yourself going to college there. You can see things like dorms and dining halls in person which can help you get a better idea of what you are looking for in a college. Make sure you bring questions for your tour guide even if it is not about the tour itself. You can ask about clubs, student life, and events as well as their opinions and experiences of living on campus. If you have extra time to explore the surrounding town, you can get an idea of what is available off campus.

Ask First-Year College Students What They Did

If you know any incoming first-years, ask them for tips on what they did during the summer before their senior year. They might have more ideas to help you set yourself up for success and create less stress for you during your senior year. That way you can enjoy your last year of high school. It also may be helpful to ask some of your teachers before you get out of school for some extra tips and advice.

I wish you the best in your senior year. Make sure you enjoy it. I hope you find this advice helpful. Embrace the oncoming growing opportunities and use this time to build successful habits and organizational skills. Do not be afraid to reach out for help. Good Luck and Go Bucks!

By Brayden Hayes

I’ve always believed that stepping out of your comfort zone leads to personal growth—and last summer, I got the chance to prove it when I took an internship at Heritage Cooperative. Although I was not required at that point to get an internship for class requirements, I decided to get one just to gain some real-world knowledge and try to find a career I enjoyed.  

My entire freshman year, my professors pushed me to get an internship. I began looking online and I eventually stumbled upon Heritage Cooperative. Heritage is the second largest cooperative in the state of Ohio. With that in mind, the closest location was an hour from my house. I took a leap of faith and applied for the job and was hired. This also meant I had an hour’s drive to work every day. Looking back at that, it was the best use of gas because of the experience.  

As a student who studies agribusiness, I was unsure what to expect working for an agronomy company. My main tasks included field scouting, tissue sampling, and research on agronomy plots. It did not take long before I was absolutely engulfed in my new passion for agronomy work. Having to declare my minor in the near future, I have decided to pursue agriculture production or agronomy. The exposure I had in the internship helped guide me to make decisions about what I want to do with my education and life outside of school. 

I would highly encourage students to take advantage of as many internships as possible. The experiences were staggering, but nothing means more than the connections I made. I got to meet so many amazing people in the agricultural industry who are a wealth of knowledge and are now part of my network. I got to know many of these people personally and I now have valuable contacts for the future. 

Taking the leap of faith to try a summer internship is extremely beneficial. You might find something that you are super passionate about. On the flip side, you might discover that the internship isn’t work that you like but knowing what you don’t like can be just as valuable as knowing what you do.     

Written By Shaun Wellert, DVM, MS, DACVPM

A typical pre-professional program includes extensive coursework in biology, chemistry, and other fundamental sciences. These subjects form the core of prerequisite classes for aspiring medical doctors and veterinarians, providing essential knowledge for their future careers. When I began my journey to becoming a veterinarian, I followed a similar academic path, earning a bachelor’s degree in biology. However, once I entered large animal practice, I quickly realized there were significant gaps in both my pre-veterinary and veterinary education.

Many of the diseases I encountered in farm animals and horses stemmed from poor animal husbandry or inadequate nutrition. While my upbringing on a dairy farm gave me valuable hands-on experience with dairy cattle, unfortunately, neither my undergraduate nor veterinary school coursework fully prepared me to understand the complexities of production animal nutrition.  I also lacked exposure many other animals that I would work on daily such as horses and beef cattle.

A strong foundation in both science and practical animal care is essential for students interested in large animal veterinary medicine. Understanding not just biological and chemical principles but also the fundamentals of animal husbandry and nutrition can make a significant difference in practice.

At Ohio State ATI, our Animal Sciences—Biosciences Specialization program provides students with this well-rounded education, combining coursework in chemistry and biology with hands-on training in animal husbandry and nutrition. This background is invaluable for veterinarians, especially those working in large animal medicine, where they interact daily with farmers and nutritionists to ensure animal health and productivity. Having this diverse knowledge base not only improves technical skills but also enhances communication and problem-solving abilities, ultimately leading to better outcomes for both animals and producers.