By Scout Nelson
Gavin Bell, a student from Hemingford, Nebraska, is building a future in livestock farming through his animal science education at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL). A scholarship from the Panhandle Research, Extension and Education Center helps him pay for college and take part in activities that support his career goals.
MJ Strasburger, University Communication and Marketing shared Bell’s story, showing how financial support and hands-on learning help students from rural communities prepare for careers in agriculture.
Bell has been part of his family’s cow-calf operation since he was 5 years old. His grandparents started the family business, and he hopes to return home after graduation to continue working in livestock farming. Although he has always enjoyed the work, attending a major four-year university was not part of his original plan.
His interest in college grew as he learns more about the animal science program in the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources (CASNR). During high school, his involvement in Future Farmers of America and the Nebraska Agricultural Youth Institute gives him opportunities to visit the university’s East Campus and learn about agricultural education.
“If you would have told me in high school that I was going to go to UNL, I would have told you that you're joking. I just never thought I’d be at a major four-year institution,” said Bell.
His interest in higher education grew through participation in agricultural youth programs and leadership activities. These experiences allowed him to visit campus, meet students and educators, and gain a deeper understanding of agricultural studies. Exposure to hands-on learning environments helped him see how university education could connect directly to the practical work he enjoyed on the farm.
As he explored agricultural programs, he became interested in opportunities that combined classroom learning with real-world experience. This practical approach played an important role in his decision to continue his education.
Describing what attracted him to the program, Bell said, “I realized I really liked it on campus. Once I set up an official visit, I got a really in-depth look at the animal science program and realized all the hands-on opportunities you get in class — that’s when I decided that this is where I wanted to be.”
For many students, choosing a college is only part of the challenge. Managing educational expenses can also be a major concern. Scholarships often help reduce financial pressure and allow students to focus more fully on learning and personal development.
Financial support gave this student greater confidence in his choice to pursue higher education. It also allowed him to participate in activities outside the classroom that enhanced his overall college experience. Through leadership organizations, student groups, and ambassador programs, he developed communication skills, teamwork abilities, and professional connections within the agricultural community.
“The scholarship has given me the freedom to do the things I want to do in college and get more involved — right now I’m a member of Nebraska Agricultural Youth Council, Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity, the CASNR Student Advisory Board and an animal science ambassador,” Bell said.
Student involvement plays a valuable role in agricultural education. Participation in organizations allows students to share ideas, build networks, and encourage others to explore careers in agriculture. These experiences also help young leaders promote agricultural awareness and support future generations interested in farming.
In addition to leadership development, classroom instruction provides practical knowledge that can be applied directly to farming operations. Agriculture programs increasingly focus on hands-on experiences that prepare students for real-world challenges. Topics such as livestock nutrition, animal care, feed management, and farm operations help students gain useful skills for future careers.
One class had a particularly strong impact on his education and future goals. Bell explained, “The Feeds and Feeding class I took last spring had so much great information. We worked on feeding all kinds of different livestock, and it was super hands-on stuff.”
Learning experiences like these give students a better understanding of livestock management and help them make informed decisions when working on farms. Practical training allows them to combine traditional agricultural knowledge with modern techniques and research-based practices.
For students from farming backgrounds, higher education can provide valuable tools for improving efficiency, productivity, and long-term sustainability. The combination of academic learning and practical experience often strengthens family farming operations and supports future success in agriculture.
The student views his degree as an investment in his future and in the future of his family’s livestock business. His goal is to apply what he learns in college to the work he has always enjoyed and to contribute to the continued success of the family operation.
Looking ahead, Bell said, “When I think about going back home, this is where I see a four-year degree being a big help — and I want to be able to say that I did it.”
Photo Credit: Gavin Bell
Categories: Nebraska, Education