The Opportunity of a Lifetime

Growing up, I have been surrounded by agriculture. My dad and his brothers manage a pork operation, and my mom is the Director of Commercial Agribusiness at Country Insurance and Financial Services. I have always had a passion for the agriculture industry. In high school I was an active leader and member in 4-H and the National FFA Organization. I became involved in FFA public speaking and addressed agriculture issues such as public concerns with hog farms and genetically modified foods. When it came time to choose a college, the University of Illinois was a long awaited selection. I chose to major in Agricultural Communications with the goal of educating the public about our modern advances and our bright future in the agriculture industry. I never would have dreamed that an opportunity like the Commodity Classic would present itself as a freshman at the University of Illinois. I am thrilled that I will have the chance to meet some of the most admirable communicators in the industry. The career experience that will present itself and the memories that will be made will last a lifetime. My family and friends are ecstatic for me, and I am absolutely honored to have this opportunity of a lifetime!