Abigail O'Neill

Question #1: What inspired you to pursue the major you are in?

I was fortunate to come from a high school that valued agricultural education and through these courses, I was lucky enough to learn from Mrs. Katie Ranck. Mrs. Ranck showed me that a career in agricultural education is fulfilling and provides a space for growth, challenge, and service. Between my time in the FFA and my mentorship from Mrs. Ranck, I am gratefully on a path to be an agricultural educator someday.

Question #2: What has been the best part of your time in the Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences?

The best part of my time in the College of Agricultural Sciences is without a doubt, my study abroad course to Belize. Through this embedded course, I was able to spend my spring break touring farms and schools throughout the country to learn about agriculture on a global level. I am most thankful for the friendships that were fostered throughout this experience and firmly believe that everyone should squeeze a study abroad experience into their time in the College of Agricultural Sciences!

Question #3: What do you wish you would have known as a new student at Penn State?

I wish that I had known that not everything has to be right for you! Clubs, extracurriculars, and academic decisions are not binding contracts, and it is more than okay to sample things to find out what suits you best. Try a little bit of everything with the intention of trying it to see if it fits for you rather than seeing how you can fit into it.