A Passion for Animal Agriculture

Name: Katherine Mastey
Major: Animal Science
Year: Senior
Hometown: Belgrade, MN
Graduation Date: December 2022

Why I chose NDSU

The first time I visited NDSU, it just felt like home. Both the college and the town of Fargo felt like small town communities, despite their size. I knew that NDSU would be a place that I felt comfortable and wanted to be.

Why I chose a major in the College of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Natural Resources

I realized I had a passion for animal agriculture after working a summer job on a farrow-to-finish swine operation. I had always been involved in 4-H and FFA, but that job really confirmed for me that I enjoyed working with animals. I knew I wanted to do something within the industry, so I knew majoring in Animal Science was the best option for me.

Scholarships are important to me

I received the Achievers Transfer Award Scholarship, the North Dakota Livestock Scholarship, the Vernon and Eloise Johnson Livestock and Meats Scholarship, and the Vernon Johnson Scholarship, as well as a scholarship from Paul Berg and the Alumni Association following my completion of the Meat Animal Evaluation Contest in Texas. These are important to me because they allow me to continue my education without financial stress and allow me to take new opportunities when they come, without worrying about money.

Involvement in clubs is beneficial

I am in Sigma Alpha Agricultural Sorority, Saddle and Sirloin, and Judging Club. Involvement in clubs has helped me to get out of my shell and meet new people, as well as get a new perspective on things. I have met some of my lifelong best friends through clubs and activities on campus.

Internship opportunities give me real-world experience

I interned at Anderson Farms in Belgrade, Minnesota, where I had the opportunity to work full-time in a swine nursery barn and see daily operations. I also spent time in the finishing barns. Last summer, I interned at AMPI in Paynesville, Minnesota, where I worked in a cheese processing plant and experienced all aspects of the cheese-making process, from milk receiving to pasteurization to cheese packaging.

Something I will always remember about my NDSU experience

My favorite memory at NDSU was experiencing Little “I” for the first time. It was so cool to see everyone’s hard work and effort put into motion.

My plans for the future

I plan to move back home to central MN and work in the agriculture industry in some facet.