Emily Tisdale and Nick Gerritsen
Emily Tisdale from Albany, Oregon
Sophomore
Environmental Economics, Policy, and Management
My first year at OSU was one of the most educational experiences I have ever had, both in and outside of the classroom. I feel OSU's educational foundation has given me outstanding opportunities to excel in our diverse and interesting world, opening doors that would have never been available to me without my college education. Each student has the flexibility to grow and learn in his or her own way by taking advantage of OSU's countless resources. Some of these opportunities can be found in clubs, tutoring resources, exposure to foreign cultures, innumerable leadership opportunities, volunteer possibilities and internship positions. One of the best decisions I have ever made has been to attend OSU.
Nick Gerritsen, Coos Bay, Oregon
Sophomore
Fisheries and Wildlife
Having grown up in a town with far less people than students at OSU, I was nervous about the transition. The College of Agricultural Sciences made this transition much easier. With numerous clubs, events, and activities, there are countless opportunities to get involved and meet people with similar interests and backgrounds. I realized that the size of OSU equals opportunities that would not be provided elsewhere. I had opportunities to travel elsewhere and attend other universities, and I can now say that I would not trade my time at OSU for anything. OSU has provided me with an excellent atmosphere and education thus far.
Emily Folin and Katy O'Hara
Emily Folin from Gold Hill, Oregon
Senior
Agricultural Business Management
Oregon State University has provided me with a number of opportunities to grow personally, professionally, and socially. From living in a residence hall my freshman year to being an officer on the Agricultural Executive Council this past year, I have made countless memories and life-long friends. My goal as a role model for higher education is to encourage students to consider their career goals and take advantage of the endless resources available to each of them. I hope that my positive experience at OSU will translate into a positive experience for other students.
Katy O'Hara from Boise, Idaho
Junior
Forest Recreation Resources
I am originally from Boise, Idaho, so coming to Oregon State University was a big decision. I knew from the first time I visited the campus that OSU was the place for me. I am also a member of Navy ROTC here, which allows me to be involved at many different levels on campus. The past two years I have spent here at OSU not only have taught me a lot about myself but also have helped me to develop life-long friendships and valuable leadership skills.
Megan Johnson and Katie Mattox
Megan Johnson from Oakridge, Oregon
Junior
Forest Management
Before I even went to high school, I knew I was going to attend OSU. However, I had no idea what college within OSU I wanted to attend. After my first visit with the College of Forestry, I knew that it was the one. It had the small high school atmosphere that I was used to. The College of Forestry has enabled me to travel and see beautiful parts of the Northwest through club activities. I have gained more than just an education, I have gained real life experiences and knowledge that will assist me in my future career goals and essentially assist me for the rest of my life.
Katie Mattox from Marcola, Oregon
Sophomore
Animal Sciences
From the time I was in middle school I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian. I fell in love with OSU and its friendly atmosphere when I took a tour my senior year. I was a bit worried about going from a class of eighteen students to classes where there could be 300, but the transition was very smooth and there is an abundance of help for anything I need here at OSU. The opportunities are endless, and with all the clubs, organizations, and activities on campus I am never bored and can always be involved. Coming here is the best decision I have ever made, and I know the friendships and connections I have made here, and will make, will never be forgotten.
Andrew Helms and Krista Nelson
Andrew Helms from Myrtle Point, Oregon
Senior
Animal Sciences and Agricultural Business Management
Graduating from a small high school, I knew a transition awaited me when I started my college career at OSU. What I didn't know was that the College of Agricultural Sciences was going to make that transition easier. The opportunities and assistance that were offered to me could only be found at a land grant university such as OSU. From the clubs I became involved with to the hands-on experience offered as a part of the class curriculum, OSU eased the transition and developed me as a person, preparing me for my future career.
Krista Nelson from Bandon, Oregon
Junior
Animal Sciences
Attending Oregon State University and being in the College of Agricultural Sciences is a choice I am glad I made. The strong community atmosphere and the infinite opportunities to become involved are two aspects of the College of Agricultural Sciences that set it apart. Through these opportunities, I have made numerous life-long friends that share my interests in agriculture. These traits of the College of Agricultural Sciences have also made it easy to transition from a small high school, in a small town, to a large university campus. OSU has definitely become my 'home away from home.'
Daniel Bolen and Tess Baumgartner
Daniel Bolen of Hermiston, Oregon
Sophomore
Agriculture Education
Having graduated from a class of fifty-eight students in rural eastern Oregon, it was a difficult decision to come to such a large university. However, having been enrolled in the College of Agricultural Sciences has been one of the most exciting undertakings in my life. I have developed countless new friendships and have experienced numerous new adventures, right here in Corvallis. I am grateful for what the College of Agricultural Sciences has offered me, and I am enthusiastic about what is yet to come.
Tess Baumgartner from Reedsport, Oregon
Senior
Animal Sciences
Growing up on the Oregon coast in the small town of Reedsport, I knew I wanted to attend a large university with variety and opportunities. I came to OSU as a science major, but it wasn't until my sophomore year that I discovered animal sciences and knew I wanted to become a veterinarian. These past two years have been the most fulfilling for me personally and academically. The College of Agricultural Sciences has a friendly and helpful staff, an assortment of clubs, challenging classes, and fun events. Most importantly, I have made wonderful friendships and found a home within the college. I have had an amazing experience at OSU that will continue throughout my lifetime.