Bethany Fields is a junior Career & Technical Education major from Frankfort, KY
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What advice would you offer an incoming freshman in the UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment?
Apply to be in the Living Learning Program! As a freshmen, this gives you the opportunity to connect with other first year students in the College of Ag. When I moved in, I was definitely a little anxious and nervous to be away from home but, the Living Learning Program helped me feel welcomed and valued. I met my best friends through the program and we constantly studied together, ate together, and attended campus events together. I actually ended up moving in with them after my freshmen year and we've been friends ever since!
Have you completed an internship, job, or been involved with a club that has been especially meaningful to you?
I had the opportunity to intern with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture in the Summer of 2022. Interning at the Department of Agriculture gave me a chance to connect with agriculturalists around the Commonwealth, and provided insight about the importance of our industry around the state. Getting to work with the Commissioner and the Department of Agriculture employees was a once in a lifetime opportunity to immerse myself in an industry that I love. The UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment gave me the chance to network with those professional and political leaders that are vital in progressing our industry.
Why did you choose your program and how does this choice contribute to your career goals?
I always knew I wanted to be an educator. I have a love for teaching and inspiring others and I feel that education was the best way I could accomplish this. In high school, I became involved within my local Future Farmers of America chapter and fell in love with the agriculture industry. Being in a classroom would give me the chance not only to educate those around me, but also inspire students to find their potential. Career & Technical Education became the perfect opportunity for me to impact those around me and do what I love at the same time.
Tell us about the city of Lexington. What surprised you? What places do you commonly gravitate toward?
Although I grew up near Lexington, I never experienced the city like I had to when I arrived at UK as a student. Oftentimes you can find me at Crank & Boom eating ice cream (preferably Gooey Butter Cake), or at Goodfella's eating pizza with friends. On weekends in the fall and spring, my favorite thing to do is attend the UK football and basketball games. If I'm in the mood to shop, I'll go to the Summit or the Fayette Mall and if I need to spend some time outdoors, I enjoy Jacobson Park and the Arboretum. Lexington has something for everyone!
