Ag Journeys
Brian Borden
Hometown: Rupert, Idaho
Major: Agricultural Science
Minor: Agribusiness Management
Clubs and organizations you are involved in: Penn State Wrestling
The Penn State campus where you started: University Park
Are you a first-generation college student? No
Good at: Wrestling, mentorship, walking on my hands, BBQ, playing the harmonica, being engaged, hunting, fishing
Good people are good people anywhere.
“I grew up in a small farming town in southern Idaho. I grew up alongside agriculture for as long as I can remember. My dad bought some land and we got cattle. But ag out west is very different. Southern Idaho is like a desert plain. If we didn't have the Snake River, we wouldn't have any agriculture. So, when I was on my way to Pennsylvania, I was nervous—until I got here. I was surprised at how similar the communities are. I was surprised at how welcoming, friendly, and kind the people in Central Pennsylvania and at Penn State are. Good people are good people anywhere.”
Now it’s my turn.
“I’m not going to lie. I came to Penn State to wrestle. Initially, I was thinking about other majors, but I had a teammate who was an Ag Science major. I talked to him about program, about his professors, his classmates, his classes, the freedom to choose different paths. He enjoyed it, and he really sold it to me. So, now it’s my turn. Since you’re reading this, really consider the Ag Science program. Best choice I ever made.”
“Ag Science is super broad, but you can focus on something super specific.”
I got excited about going to class.
“One of my favorite courses was Ag Ecology. I got excited about going to class. Monday and Wednesday we were in the classroom, and Fridays were in the lab and working with things like plants and soils. It was both fun and kind of mind blowing, the way it all linked with our need for agriculture, and our need to eat. The subject matter was fascinating, and my professor was super passionate about it. It was contagious. And that was the kind of experience I had over and over at Penn State—professors that really enjoyed what they did and made sure you did too.”
Positive influences.
”The friends and connections I have made at Penn State have been a big part of my success. I have three communities: my church, my wrestling team, and my ag family. I was able to surround myself with positive influences that made the important things in college life a priority. Having friends that push you to work hard in class is a huge benefit.”
Mentorship.
“One of my best Penn State experiences happened outside the classroom. My coaches are big on giving back to the community and I took the opportunity to coach and mentor at a local youth wrestling club. There is nothing more satisfying than seeing a young person struggle with a concept, be it a wrestling move or a life decision, and come out on the other side as a better person.”
Build a Network.
“I just accepted a position with a big ag and construction equipment company. It feels like the perfect blend of my people skills and my science and business knowledge. The degree qualified me for the job. My network got my foot in the door.”
