The Springfield News-Leader recently published a story highlighting one agriculture student at Missouri State University who's passion for teaching others extends far beyond the classroom.
MSU's Casteel Kirk treats agricultural education as an opportunity to turn passion into a career. The senior's resume is jam-packed with leadership experience , including serving as national president of Delta Tau Alpha Agriculture Honor Society, and volunteering with many community organizations. One of those roles, as a volunteer with the local FFA organization, recently found her in a Greenwood Laboratory School fourth-grade classroom teaching students the importance of agriculture through the "Farmer for a Day" program.
She sees those opportunities as both great experiences and stepping stones toward her goal of teaching in college and high school agriculture classrooms.
In the article, Casteel said:
“I’ve learned how to connect with all different kinds of people,” she said. “This is a communication skill that will be vital as a teacher. I’ve also learned how to talk to people without being critical, which is also important for teachers.”
In addition to being highlighted at MSU and in the newspaper, Casteel was recently named a 2012 Citizen Scholar at MSU for her accomplishments and volunteer work.
Check out the full story by Caitlin West on the Springfield News-Leader's website to learn more.
