Pursuing a master’s degree in agricultural economics and writing my thesis on international trade laid a strong foundation for the career path I ultimately chose. However, what truly sparked my passion for international agriculture was the opportunity to study abroad. Experiencing agricultural practices firsthand in other countries was both eye-opening and inspiring. It deepened my appreciation for the U.S. food and fiber system and motivated me to pursue a role in international marketing.
I would tell any high school student that studying AREC is like getting the best of both worlds. You gain strong business and financial skills while staying connected to agriculture – one of the most (if not the most) important industries in the world. Ag Economics isn’t just about farming. It’s about understanding how food, finance, and communities connect. The AREC program provides endless career opportunities from policy to banking to community impact, but most importantly it prepares you for a career that is both rewarding and impactful.
The faculty and teachers in the AREC department are like nothing I have ever seen. I was able to build deep connections and relationships, receive the help I needed on assignments, and continue to stay in touch after graduation. Further, there are also so many different opportunities that an AREC degree can bring you.
The professors and staff at UTK/AREC are some of the best. They really care about you not only learning the material but growing as a young adult and preparing you for the next step in your career. For example, I would not have the job I have today unless Dr. Riley and Dr. Park had connected me with Farm Credit Mid-America for an internship in the summer of 2013 which set me on this career path.
The faculty at AREC care about each student and their success. University of Tennessee is a large campus, but AREC students should never feel lost with the mentorship AREC provides. The student has every opportunity to succeed in this program if they have the desire to utilize the resources available. Ten years+ after graduation, I can still email prior professors and stay in touch. To me, this is what has always set AREC apart from the rest!
For high school students interested in joining the AREC department at Tennessee, the biggest strength of the department is the relationship that is developed between the students and professors. The level of personal commitment that faculty invest both in and outside the classroom is critical in the development of AREC students. This level of commitment from the faculty is not found everywhere. Having mentors to advise you on how to reach your goals is critical.
The department faculty invests a great amount of time and energy into the career development of students. While simultaneously generating research that is well respected among land grant institutions. AREC at UT not only played a vital role in my early career development but continues to have a significant and positive impact. I am proud to have graduated from AREC at UT.
The AREC department provided so many opportunities for me to grow as an individual and young professional. Pursuing a degree in AREC allowed me to experience things I otherwise would not have. Whether you want to be an economist, a teacher, or a business leader, the AREC department will provide you with tangible knowledge and skills to be successful in a wide range of industries. My time as an AREC student was invaluable and I am grateful for the faculty that invested in my success early on during my time at the University of Tennessee. It has paid dividends already in the early stages of my career.