Student Spotlight

May 2, 2025

Transforming Communities Through Support

Cristal Avalos, a master's student in Youth, Family, and Community Sciences at NC State, is dedicated to empowering families and communities through her work in nonprofits, education, and leadership roles focused on support systems and resilience. 

Mar 12, 2025

Creating Opportunities for All in Agriculture

Keonte Edmonds’ journey from secondary school teacher to Ph.D. candidate at NC State is a testament to resilience, mentorship, and a deep commitment to agricultural education, advocacy, and community building. 

Feb 22, 2025

A Chance Discovery

An unexpected Google search led Maris Jones to NC State’s Youth, Family, and Community Sciences program, where she found her passion for youth development and a path to making a lasting impact. 

Jan 6, 2025

Sowing Seeds of Change

Libby Blosser, a graduate student in agricultural and extension education at NC State, is channeling her passion for sustainable agriculture and community service into a future career supporting farmers and mentoring youth in her hometown of Columbus County. 

Sep 6, 2024

Turning Challenges into Change

Transforming her past challenges into a mission, Ana Arreola-Chapa empowers families through education, cultural understanding, and community support. 

Aug 9, 2024

From City Streets to Agricultural Fields

Transitioning from urban life to agricultural fields, Saifur Rahman, a doctoral student in the AHS department is driven by a passion for nature and food security, while actively contributing to the university community and planning a future in academia. 

Apr 10, 2024

Journey to Excellence: Jillian Ford’s Path in Agricultural Education at NC State

Growing up around her family’s wholesale plant nursery in eastern NC, Jillian Ford developed an appreciation for agriculture. Learn how she turned that into three degrees from NC State. 

Feb 2, 2024

Nurturing Diversity and Growth in Agricultural

Hailing from a bustling urban center, Mikayla Daniels, a graduate student, initially had minimal exposure to the realm of agriculture. It was only upon commencing her academic journey at NC State that she cultivated an appreciation for the field and unearthed a lifelong passion. 

Nov 13, 2023

Discovering Passion and Purpose Through Extension

A few fortunate individuals discover a career they genuinely love, which becomes their pursuit after graduation. Ivelisse Colon, a Master's student studying Youth, Family, and Community Sciences (YFCS) who will graduate this December, is one such lucky person. 

Aug 28, 2023

From Family Farm to Ag Educator

Meet Ag Ed student Ann Morgan Hawthorne. Throughout her life, her family has taught her the value of serving yourself by serving others. Read her story to learn more.