NC State Student Teacher of the Year Discusses Her Journey and Inspiration

Growing up in a rural area filled with the beautiful nature our world offers, Ivey Brewer gained a deep appreciation and love for agriculture. Her family continues to inspire her today. “As a farming family, we have to endure quite a bit as most farming communities do,” Brewer says. “Each challenge is met with grace, faith and the determination to move a mountain. No matter what comes their way, they overcome it with a smile “n their face.”

To feed her passion, Brewer became a member of the Future Farmers of America (FFA) upon beginning high school. The extracurricular student organization opens many doors for driven individuals, as it educates members about all things agriculture and instills a profound sense of leadership in them. Brewer explains that her experience with FFA shaped her into the woman she is today. 

Brewer’s transformative years with the FFA organization piqued her interest in becoming a teacher. Today, Brewer is the NC State Student Teacher of the Year. She was awarded the accolade out of 275 student teachers at North Carolina State University (not just agriculture education). She is now under consideration for Student Teacher of the Year for North Carolina. 

Brewer attributes her success to hard work and all the patience and assistance she received from mentors, cooperating teachers and peers. “It is definitely not an accolade I can take full credit for. It took a village to help mold the version of myself that was able to receive this honor.”

Transitioning to life in a university as large as NC State is no easy task for any individual; however, Brewer quickly adapted as she assimilated to life as an agricultural education major. The challenging curriculum pushed Brewer out of her comfort zone, allowing her to grow and gain more knowledge in her field of study. Her previous conceptions of agriculture were expanded upon, enriching her adoration for the practice. 

NC State has some of the most spectacular and dedicated professors, students and staff. Brewer specifically expressed gratitude to Dr. Travis Park, Dr. Joy Morgan Fleming, Dr. Wendy Warner, and Dr. Misty Lambert. Students in the agricultural education cohort acted as an extensive support system for Brewer, as they assisted one another in schoolwork, advice and friendship. Cooperating teacher Ms. Savannah Currens helped her navigate the challenging yet rewarding student teaching experience. Brewer hopes to continue making a difference in agriculture upon graduation. Her goal is to aid in advancing agriculture and serve communities in most need of help.

We look forward to seeing the wonderful accomplishments Ivey Brewer continues to achieve.