At a glance
“In labs we deal with a variety of livestock species. We have learned how to do medical work and I am looking forward in my future semesters to learning more about artificial insemination and more about genetics. The hands-on opportunities I have gotten here are valuable. These experiences have opened a whole field of careers that were not previously available to me.”
Dean Jackson
Dean Jackson (Cornwall, Ontario) earned a degree in Canada but decided to return to college to pursue education tied to his family roots. He grew up on a beef farm and enrolled in Alfred State’s agricultural technology program.
“I chose Alfred State because I was looking at agriculture programs. The closest program to my home would have been nine hours in Ontario. Seeing the hands-on opportunities, seeing the village, and meeting the faculty made me decide to come.”
The application process for him was not difficult as an international student. “The main difference between applying to a college in Canada and here was speaking with the admissions department and getting a F1 form. I also have to get travel documents signed to come and go.”
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Since enrolling at Alfred State, Dean has been excited about all the hands-on experiences he has received. “In labs we deal with a variety of livestock species. We have learned how to do medical work and I am looking forward in my future semesters to learning more about artificial insemination and more about genetics. The hands-on opportunities I have gotten here are valuable. These experiences have opened a whole field of careers that were not previously available to me.”
Interactions with the faculty have enhanced Dean’s experiences thus far. “The faculty is so willing to help. You can reach them whenever you need them. That is different than my previous college experience. Here at Alfred, you hear back right away, and they are willing to give you options and are very accommodating.”
Dean enjoys life on campus. “Life on campus is amazing. The food options are good and living in the residence hall is nice. I enjoy running into people in the lounges and studying with friends. I fun part about this campus is that you can apply to bring a pet to campus as an emotional support animal.”
Excited about the future, Dean looks forward to bringing innovative ideas back to the family farm and exploring career paths within the field. “My main passion is cattle, and I would love to work in genetics or feed.”
Dean crossed the border and planted the seed for my future.