By Maya Wahl, CAHNRS Academic Programs
Articulate, enthusiastic, and driven are just a few words that describe this year’s Outstanding Juniors in Agricultural and Human Sciences. The WSU College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences is home for Chet Broberg of Bellingham, Wash. and Heather Rogers of Spokane, students who have put in the time and effort to earn two of the distinguished awards offered within the college.
Outstanding Junior in Human Sciences
Chet Broberg, studying economic sciences with a focus in policy and law, discovered he was a natural at understanding economics in high school, which inspired him to pursue the field at WSU. He worked as an editor for The Daily Evergreen and currently serves as the vice president of scholarship for FarmHouse Fraternity. Both of these on-campus positions started as simple ways to stay involved and in his comfort zone, but grew into leadership opportunities driving him to pursue good jobs and even better grades.
“My favorite part about being a CAHNRS Coug is how supportive and friendly my professors are,” Brogerg said.
He also said he never had trouble diving into his classes because of the outstanding faculty. He received support from family and friends who believe he can achieve whatever he sets his mind to.
Chet worked hard to become a well-rounded leader, something that he takes great pride in. He has an undeniable passion for people and hopes to make a difference in people’s lives. Spending time at his local food bank is especially impactful, as are the writings of Ta-Nahesi Coates, an influential social and political journalist.
Chet is committed to social justice, so he plans to attend law school after receiving his bachelor’s next year. His end goal is to become a public defender and take on some of the most important issues in our society today. He wants to “serve an important role in the way our country works,” and “serve the people who need it most.”
Outstanding Junior in Agricultural Sciences
Heather Rogers has dedicated herself to being an exceptional student and leader. An animal sciences/pre-vet major, CAHNRS Ambassador, and avid reader, Heather finds ways to satisfy her passion for science as well as writing. She works as an English 102 facilitator and volunteers at the WSU writing center, as well as working as an animal care technician in the exotics department at the WSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Heather has a variety of interests and hobbies—that’s what made her such an excellent candidate for Outstanding Junior in Agricultural Sciences.
She does not come from a traditional agricultural background and even admitted to having to search out what animal sciences was before coming to WSU. This never stopped her from excelling in her classes and finding a home in CAHNRS. Some of Heather’s favorite parts about being a CAHNRS Coug are the sense of community and hands-on learning. Her classes are challenging, but she receives an overwhelming amount of support from her peers, professors, and staff, including Val Fisher, animal sciences academic coordinator.
“I’ve always been a people person, and I enjoy problem-solving,” Rogers said.
She credits Fisher, the Ignite program, and diving into her animal sciences classes with helping her realize that she could use her problem-solving skills and passion for people to make animals—and their owners— feel better.
Heather plans to go to veterinary school to earn her D.V.M. and find her specialty. Currently, she is leaning towards a mixed practice, taking care of all sorts of animals. No matter what path Heather chooses, the veterinary and animal industries will be better for it.