Each week, we showcase one of our CAHNRS Ambassadors, a student leadership organization that encourages students to pursue higher education and serves as a liaison between the college and the greater community. This week, we’re featuring Kayla Beechinor, a junior from Walla Walla, Wash.
What are you studying?
I’m double-majoring in Agricultural Biotechnology and Field Crop Management.
Favorite Show/Movie:
The Office
Favorite Cougar Tradition:
The spirit that WSU students have is unmatched! You can travel anywhere in the world and the Cougar family and spirit will be present. One of my favorite memories is traveling to Hawaii for an internship and getting a “Go Cougs!” from someone in the airport right after I landed. It made the experience even better knowing that there is a full line of alumni supporting me wherever I go. When you become a Cougar, you instantly join a community that is full of support and enormous spirit!
Favorite CAHNRS Commodity:
CAHNRS has multiple commodities that I love, but my favorite would have to be the Huckleberry Ripple or Cougar Tracks ice cream! Ferdinand’s ice-cream is located right next to a lot of CAHNRS classes, so it is easy to go grab and eat while studying with groups. You know that when you enjoy this incredible treat, you are eating some of the best ice-cream in the nation that’s made by CAHNRS Cougs!
Why be a CAHNRS Coug?
Being a CAHNRS Coug means that I can learn within an environment that supports my education, goals, and dreams. CAHNRS awards around $735,000 each year in scholarships and gives students multiple resources to find scholarships. With their support, I have been able to have my tuition paid for each year at WSU! The school also has programs, like the Ignite Program, which allowed me to make money while doing research as a freshman. Money can be a huge stress factor for students, but thanks to CAHNRS, I have the monetary freedom to focus on my studies!
Best Student Experience:
One of my best experiences was joining the Ignite Undergraduate Research Program through CAHNRS. This allowed me to start research through the Spring Wheat Breeding Program starting my freshman year of college. I have now been working there for three years and won an award for my research after I presented at SURCA, WSU’s undergraduate research fair. I am extremely thankful that I have had this opportunity because I have been able to apply what I learn in class, work with my professors, and prepare for my future in Plant Breeding.
CAHNRS Taught Me:
CAHNRS has prepared me for my future through giving me multiple opportunities to network. I have been able to help with field days at WSU with the wheat breeding program. This resulted in connections and getting an internship outside of WSU! I have also been able to network with students around the country by attending Agriculture Future of America Leaders Conference. The others clubs I am involved in such as The International Development Club and WSU Young Farmers and Ranchers Club have also offered multiple networking opportunities.