Hadley Hill is a junior Agricultural Education and Advocacy, and Agricultural Economics major from Edmond, OK
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What's been your favorite course and why?
My favorite course has been anything Ag Ed. The students that are in the first Ag Ed class Freshman year I travel with for the rest of college. I have gotten to know all of them well and have a true friendship with each of them. The professors are also extraordinary. They care about all the students deeply and want the best for each of us. They share their personal experiences to the class for better understanding of the curriculum and also to keep us engaged. I leave class every day with a smile on my face and excided for what my future holds as an educator.
Why did you choose your program, and/or how does your program contribute to your career goals?
I chose Ag Ed because I was very involved in my high school ag program and did not want to take all my knowledge and experiences I had gained and leave it behind. Coming to UK for orientation and meeting with my academic advisor confirmed that I made the right decision to study Ag Ed.
My career goal is to become an ag teacher in high school, and this is exactly what the program prepares for me to do. I take classes ranging from animal sciences to welding to allow me to become a well-rounded educator. Support from my professors and classmates has given me a network within the ag community that I would not have otherwise.
Tell us about your favorite professor, advisor, or other member of the UK family that has been especially impactful during your college career.
My favorite professor is Mr. Dexter Knight. He started at UK my second semester Freshman year and was a co-teacher for a small leadership class that I was in. After getting to know Mr. Knight in that class I learned that he is the kindest most welcoming person I had ever met. He reminds me so much of my dad and love when I get to talk to him. He went on to teach the Ag Ed Sophomores all year and we all had so much fun with him. Mr. Knight always shares the best stories from his time in the classroom which makes class time really fun. Mr. Knight has provided me with a sense of comfort and familiarity that is very meaningful to me while being so far from home.
Have you completed an internship, job, or been involved with a club that has been especially meaningful to you?
A club that has been meaningful to me is Ag Ed Society. It is a great way to meet older students in the Ag Ed major, get advice about classes, have fun events, and making lasting friendships. A great part about being an Ag Ed student is getting the opportunity is go to the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana. Knowing other students through AES makes Convention so much fun and I have made great memories. Now as a junior I have become elected President of AES, and I am so excited to get to know more Ag Ed students and help better our program through college and community engagement.
What advice would you offer an incoming freshman in the UK Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment?
My advice for an incoming freshman at UK M-G CAFE is to give it time and keep pushing. Coming into college can be scary and overwhelming. As an out of state student, I was terrified to start at UK. The first few months of college were so hard for me because I missed home so much, I almost transferred back home. I sometimes find myself thinking about what life would be like if I did transfer and think I would not enjoy college as much as I do now. So, my advice is to give college a change and keep pushing through the hard days. Become engaged in your classes, join cubs, put yourself out there and you will find friends that will make your college experience so much fun. It is okay to be homesick, but do not let that take over your life and hold you back.