Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch

Transcript

It’s time for an off-campus adventure to meet Courtney, an agriculture science major who’s studying to be an ag teacher. She’s working at Gibbs Ranch, a working ranch facility that was deeded to the university in 1993. Here, agriculture students spend time working with cattle, goats and maintaining the 1800 acre property. Just a short 12 minute drive from campus, this property serves as a second home for Sam Houston State University ag students. Let’s join Courtney to get our boots dirty and see why life is better on the ranch.

– Thanks Alex, howdy. My name is Courtney, and we’re going to Sam Houston State University. Growing up in Northern California, agriculture has always been dear to my heart. Some of my favorite memories were helping out on the ranch even as a young child. In high school, I was heavily involved in Future Farmers of America, where I showed livestock, held leadership positions and also went on to obtaining the highest degree an FFA member could receive, my American degree. Being a first generation college student that was raised by my grandparents, the thought of attending college was so exciting, but also pretty scary. Although there were plenty of amazing schools back home, this California girl knew she wanted something so much bigger. And as everyone knows, everything’s bigger in Texas. And something that Texas agriculture truly drew me in. When I first started looking at universities, I thought I wanted such a large setting, but quickly realized that I wanted to be more than just a face in the classroom. I wanted to have a personal connection with my university and my professors. And thankfully here at Sam Houston State, I have found that place in Ag Science Department. I’m a proud member of Sigma alpha, an agriculture based sorority, CattleWomen, Collegian FFA trio, and I’ve even served as a national teach ag ambassador. As you can see, I’ve kept pretty busy with all the opportunities here at Sam. I’m so grateful for everyone here at Sam Houston, who has constantly pushed me to do better in my career. My professors are so focused on ensuring that I’m successful in my field. They’ve helped me with hands-on experiences, such as out here at Gibbs Ranch, where I’ve learned to vaccinate goats and the proper way to back up a truck and trailer. I fix engines in my ag mechanics classes and then would find myself rushing to the horticulture center to propagate a peach tree. Here at Sam Houston, I’m so thankful for all the opportunities to ensure that I’m not only gonna be a well-rounded ag teacher, but also a great agriculturist. My sorority has introduced me to a phenomenal group of young professional women. And some of my favorite memories, are cheering on our fellow sisters compete on the rodeo or horse judging team. And we’ve even helped with Collegiate FFA with steer saddling. Let me be honest, I never pictured myself being a Bearkat. For the most part, I didn’t even know what one was or that they existed. But since being at Sam Houston State, I have never been more proud to be called one. Thanks for hearing my story, eat them up Kats and back to you, Alex.

– Great job Courtney from California all the way to Huntsville. Your path to become an ag teacher has been full of incredible learning opportunities. You’re gonna be a great resource for the next generation of farmers and ranchers. Thanks again for taking the time with us today. Take care, Courtney.