Abby Kaelin

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

My inspiration for being an Agribusiness Management student began at home on my family's fruit and vegetable farm, where we have a retail market. Growing up I have always seen the importance of business management skills, which include strategic thinking, leadership, problem solving, organization, and much more. I hope to use these skills to help family farms just like my own continue to produce food for the world.

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 spent in the College of Agricultural Sciences is the connections I have made with faculty, professors, peers, and industry professionals. There are so many opportunities that are presented to you when at college, and they all help to build your personal brand. One key connection I have made is as an ambassador for Agriculture Future of America (AFA). This organization hosts an Annual Leaders Conference for all college students, as well as Institutes focused on different aspects of agriculture and natural resources; AFA serves as a bridge between universities and industry.

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

My biggest advice to new students at Penn State is that the unknown is scary, but nobody knows everything when coming to college. You do not need to know what you want to be when you grow up or what major you want to study at school. Through the opportunities you have presented to you and the connections you make, you will create your own unique path.