Considering all you have learned in your area of study, is there a common misconception or something you wish everyone knew about the subject?
I think people tend to be unsure or unaware of what community and leadership development is. I would explain it as rural sociology, how people function in communities and how to create connection, agricultural communications and leadership studies. The major allows each person to customize what exactly they want to study. I tend to focus on how agriculture can be an avenue to pursue social change and how positive environmental progress can go hand in hand with human connection and community building. While that is my focus, this major can accommodate a huge range of interests within the agricultural and community development spaces.
Tell us about your favorite professor, advisor or other member of the UK family that has been especially impactful during your college career.
There have been so many UK staff and faculty members that have supported me and have huge impacts on my experience at UK. Dr. Savannah Robin is one of the first that comes to mind. While she is not currently an advisor of mine, she is a huge career mentor and has recommended many of the career pathways and internships I have and plan on pursuing. Dr. Nicole Breazeale is another mentor I have leaned on in different situations. She has been a huge inspiration and has gone out of her way to share her insight, write recommendation letters and propose potential opportunities to me.
Have you completed an internship, job or been involved with a club that has been especially meaningful to you?
I interned for the horse pasture evaluation program this past summer. This was an extension program in the agriculture and natural resource area. We traveled to 55+ horse and cattle farms across central Kentucky to assist the farm manager/owner in maintaining pasture health and minimizing negative health outcomes. This was a huge learning experience, as well as very rewarding to see the health benefits of our work.
I also currently intern for Marketing and Agricultural Communications. I have learned writing, photography, editing and other media skills through this position. My main responsibilities are to photograph and cover events and write stories. It has allowed me to publish my own writing pieces, which as a student is a great opportunity.
Tell us about the city of Lexington. What surprised you? What places/people do you like most?
I think Lexington is the perfect small city with a college town feel. I am from a big city and find Lexington to be small in comparison. I love that I am a short drive from everything I need, and also can be in the middle of farm and horse country within 20 minutes. There are a few places around Lexington that I love to spend time. Joseph Beth is a big bookstore with a restaurant, fireplace and huge selection. Kenwick Table is a coffee shop/community space. They have coffee, a cat, great music and a cozy environment. Lastly, Pasta Garage (Italian food) and Crank and Boom (ice cream) are my favorite food places to go to with friends!