Get to Know Ally & Scarlett

Hi! Welcome to my Senior Capstone Project and first blog post! The coming posts will be more academic, but I wanted to take the time to introduce you to my own dairy story.

I am a senior at Wilmington College (OH) studying Animal Science and Spanish. Scarlett (PINE-TREE REBEL-RED 6681) is my retired 7 year old Red and White Holstein. I wanted to tie her into this because she is a piece of why I've decided to continue pursuing the dairy industry. My goal for this project is simple: to share. I am passionate about the dairy industry, and I hope to engage in meaningful learning and conversations through my capstone project!

Why Do I Love Dairy?

I've never been the person with a "dream job." The questions about my future were always met with, "Umm, I don't know. I just like cows." I loved being on my grandpa's 50-head registered Holstein farm, and showing dairy cattle through 4-H and open shows. These two key pieces that involvement in the dairy industry, turned into a love. When I was in 6th grade, I moved to Centerville and this transition was difficult. However because of the move, I had the opportunity to interact with people who have never stepped foot on a farm. I enjoyed sharing about agriculture as a whole; it made me more curious and want to learn more so that I would be able to competently share with my peers. Moving also gave me a new appreciation for the selfless hard work that is the backbone of the Ag Industry. By the time I got into high school I knew I wanted to pursue the Ag Industry, but my decision to continue in the dairy industry is best told in a story.

Matthew 23:12

Those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.

My grandpa was no exception to the small, struggling dairy farmers. In October of 2016 he decided to get out of milking. When the last click of the pulsators were heard, the last cow walked out of the parlor and stepped onto the trailer, my family was humbled.

The next summer at the 2017 Ohio State Fair, I walked into the ring with Scarlett expecting nothing, and we walked out at the end of the day with a purple banner- something no one in my family had done. When the judge shook my hand and we walked back to the barn receiving many congratulations, my family was exalted.

Through this, my gratitude for the dairy industry was amplified. I felt drawn to pour back into the industry that has poured so much into me. I'm thankful for the opportunities to serve the industry so far, and I look forward to those coming in the future.

I am excited to share, learn and have great conversations about the industry I love through this project. Thank you for being a part of it!

Thank you for reading this week's post! Reach out to me if there's anything you want to see me discuss in the coming weeks!