Choosing a major is one of the biggest decisions a college student has to make, and for me, it was a journey of self-discovery, passion, and practicality. I started my college career with the dream of becoming a veterinarian because of my deep love for animals. However, as I navigated through the pre-vet courses, I quickly realized that the rigorous coursework and the additional four years of veterinary school were not the right fit for me. That realization led me to explore other options that would still allow me to stay connected to agriculture and animals, ultimately leading me to Agricultural Business.
One of the biggest reasons Agricultural Business was the perfect choice for me was that it allowed me to continue learning about animals without the long educational commitment required to become a veterinarian. This major provides a blend of business and agricultural sciences, giving me the best of both worlds. I still get to study aspects of animal care, farm management, and agribusiness, which keeps me close to my passion while also preparing me for a successful career in the industry.
Another reason I chose Agricultural Business was because I wanted to be part of a field where diversity is still growing. Being an African American woman in agriculture is rare, and I knew that by stepping into this field, I could help pave the way for future generations. Representation matters, and I want to inspire others who may not have considered agriculture as a career path. Agriculture is an essential industry, and the more diverse voices we have contributing to it, the stronger it becomes.
I could have pursued a traditional business degree, but I felt that I would be learning much of the same material I had already covered in high school. I wanted a challenge, something that would push me outside my comfort zone and allow me to gain knowledge in an industry I wasn’t fully familiar with. Agricultural Business has been exactly that. It has introduced me to new concepts in farming, supply chain management, agricultural economics, and sustainability—topics that I would not have explored in a standard business program.
One of the most exciting aspects of choosing Agricultural Business is that I am starting something new for my family. I did not come from a strong agricultural background, so stepping into this field is a chance to build a legacy. I hope to gain enough knowledge and experience to create opportunities for my future family and to pass on what I’ve learned. My goal is to establish a foundation in agriculture that my children and grandchildren can build upon, whether through farming, agribusiness, or agricultural innovation.
As I continue my journey in Agricultural Business, I feel confident that I made the right choice. This major has not only challenged me academically but has also given me a sense of purpose. I am excited about the opportunities ahead, whether it be in farm management, agricultural marketing, or even starting my own agribusiness one day. More importantly, I am proud to be part of an industry that feeds and sustains the world.
Choosing Agricultural Business has been one of the best decisions I’ve made, and I look forward to making a lasting impact in the field. I hope my journey inspires others to follow their passions, take on new challenges, and create their own path in agriculture.
Maliah Spencer
Maliah is an Agricultural Business student at Southern Arkansas University. She is very involved with the campus community serving as a Resident Assistant, Peer Academic Coach, University Housing student worker, and Career Services student worker.
