Hardworking Ag Education Major, Taleek Harlee, Shares Inspirational Experience

As an NC State Student Government senator representing CALS, majoring in Agricultural Education and minoring in Horticulture, Taleek Harlee still manages to make time for his position as a Nation Teach Ag Ambassador. The program allows individuals passionate about agricultural education to use their enthusiasm to encourage others to consider a career in teaching agriculture.

As a National Teach Ag Ambassador, Harlee has the responsibility to communicate with different audiences to help with the recruitment of future agriculture teachers and agriculture leaders. These ambassadors play a critical role in spreading the Teach Ag message among high school and post-secondary students.

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel”

– Maya Angelou.

In his time at NC State, Harlee has found this quote to be most inspirational. Numerous educators here at NC State have thoroughly inspired and impacted Harlee to continue his pursuit in Agricultural Education and Horticulture. He acknowledges the pivotal roles Karl Jicha, Alex Graves and Bob Patterson played in his life. These individuals not only equipped Harlee with the necessary resources to be successful in his studies, but also pushed Harlee out of his comfort zone by consistently encouraging him to take on new challenges. They also taught Harlee the reality that grades do not define a person, consequently helping him become more resilient.

Harlee also credits his extracurricular activities with his success and fond experience at NC State. As a member of the Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences (MANRRS) club, Harlee is surrounded by diverse community members with similar interests in agriculture. MANRRS offers individuals with unique perspectives that inspire their members in all things agriculture.

After graduating in May 2022, Harlee plans to gain his Doctoral Degree in Agricultural Education. He hopes to soon be teaching high school agriculture, and inspiring the next generation of future agriculture leaders and educators.

To learn more about becoming a National Teach Ag Ambassador go to the website.