Why did you choose your program, and how does your program contribute to your career goals?
I chose to pursue agricultural economics on the pre-law track because it allows me to combine two of my biggest passions, agriculture and policy advocacy. Agriculture is connected to everything: food systems, rural livelihoods, environmental sustainability and global trade. In my future career, I want to work at the intersection of agriculture and the legal frameworks that shape it. Studying agricultural economics gives me the foundation to understand the economic realities of the industry, while the pre-law track prepares me to engage in the policy and decision-making processes that influence agricultural communities. Ultimately, I hope to play a role in crafting and improving the laws that guide and protect our agricultural systems.
What's been your favorite course and why?
My favorite course so far has been AEC 302 with Dr. Isaacs. This class dove deep into the management tools used on farms and the decision-making frameworks that guide the agribusiness industry. One of the most valuable parts of the course was the Excel lab; it was definitely challenging at times, but it pushed me to become confident and proficient in Excel, which has helped me succeed in many of my other classes. Dr. Isaacs is an incredible professor who creates a class environment that is both rigorous and rewarding. AEC 302 challenged me, but it also taught me so much about agribusiness, problem-solving and practical skills I know I’ll use in my career.
Katie's Top 3 Places to Eat in Lexington
- Big Kahuna
- Josie's
- Ramsey's
Tell us about the city of Lexington. What surprised you? What places/people do you like most?
Lexington is genuinely one of the best places to be in college. It’s the perfect mix of a lively college town vibe and a welcoming, tight knit community, where you can walk from campus to coffee shops, local restaurants and fun spots like Triangle Park. The city feels big enough that there’s always something happening, like sports games, festivals, horse races and new places to explore, but small enough that you always run into familiar faces. Between the beautiful campus, the friendliness of people everywhere you go, and the balance of city life with rolling bluegrass scenery just minutes away, Lexington feels like a place where you can grow, have fun and truly feel at home.
What advice would you offer an incoming freshman in the UK Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment?
As someone who came from a very small rural area, coming to a huge school like UK felt intimidating at first. My biggest piece of advice to incoming freshmen is that even though UK is a big school, you can absolutely make it feel small. Join clubs, speak up in class, get involved and do whatever you can to leave this campus better than you found it. The more you put yourself out there, the quicker this place starts to feel like home. UK becomes small fast when you take the initiative to meet people, build connections and embrace everything the campus has to offer.