Michael Chaloupka

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

Soccer has been a huge part of my life since I could walk. In school I was required to complete science fair projects and throughout those experiences, I discovered the field of turfgrass science. I discovered there was a whole career focused on the care and maintenance of playing surfaces. Choosing this major allows me to stay connected to two of my passions while pursuing a profession that blends science, agriculture, and soccer.

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

The best part about the College of Agricultural Sciences has been the opportunities to apply what I am learning in real-world settings. Working for the Penn State Grounds Crew has enabled me to be directly involved with maintaining and preparing athletic fields and to experience games from the field level. My amazing internship with the Milwaukee Brewers provided professional experience managing a baseball field. Visiting high-end golf courses expanded my understanding of the diverse applications and opportunities within Turfgrass Science.

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

As a 2+2 student, I wish I had known how small you can make this university feel. Coming from a small high school out-of-state, I was initially overwhelmed by the size of University Park and the number of people during my campus tour. What I discovered is that the College of Ag Sciences, especially Turfgrass Science, is really a close-knit, supportive community. Getting involved in clubs, intramurals, and campus activities helped shrink the size of the university and gave me a sense of connection. It turns out the professors in the College of Ag Sciences are supportive and understand students. I wish I had felt more comfortable getting involved sooner.