CAES undergrads who made the final leap from student to graduate took a brief detour along the way to offer words of advice to their underclassmen colleagues during this year’s CAES Student Awards.
As part of the ceremony, held April 13 in Frye Hall, four outgoing seniors, representing each department in the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, spoke to their classmates in the annual “Pass the Torch” speech, providing first-hand accounts on their Aggie experience and lessons they had learned on their college journey.
“This is one of my favorite times of this evening, and it’s an awesome opportunity for us to be able to ‘pass the torch’ to the juniors, sophomores, and freshmen as they matriculate through their programs,” said Andrea Gentry-Apple, DVM, emcee and assistant professor of animal science.
“Tonight, celebrate the wins, but also take count of the lessons you’ve learned along the way,” said Interim Dean Radiah C. Minor, Ph.D. “Lessons that will prepare you for continuous improvement, for leadership and for whatever comes next.”
Serena Taylor, a fashion merchandising and design major in the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, discussed pushing through self-doubt, setbacks both the classroom and job market, and leaving home for the first time to intern at Urban Outfitters in Philadelphia.
“My proudest moment is not just one achievement, but standing here, giving this speech and preparing to graduate and now being a success story that despite the doubt, fear, and uncertainty, I came and I conquered everything that I set to accomplish,” said Taylor.
Agricultural education major Xanaa Myers offered praise to program coordinator Chastity English, Ph.D., associate dean of academics Antoine Alton, Ph.D. and her classmates for their support during personal and academic highs and lows.
“Through the struggles, setbacks, growth and victories, I have learned the true meaning of perseverance,” said Myers. “I have learned the importance of leaning on community, accepting support and continuing forward, even when things don’t go according to plan.”
Nasya Burgess, animal sciences major and an international student from Bermuda, said that CAES – which she broke into an acronym of “Courage, Ambition, Excellence, and Service” – was an example of “Always Doing, Never Done,” and pushing through the college grind.
“You do not need to have everything figured out – just start anyway,” said Burgess. “Take the opportunity, apply for that internship, join that club, and speak to that professor. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask for help.”
Jordan King, environmental studies major in the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Design, urged her peers to stay “consistent and committed”.
“The college is full of genuine changemakers,” said King. “I know that each and every one of you has the ability to make a positive impact on the world … people will remember you for the way you show up, the way you treat others, and the impact you leave behind.”
