By Blake Jackson
Amy Jo Estes arrived at the University of Missouri in 1988 with an interest in animal sciences but limited experience. Despite an initial struggle during a hands-on class, she persevered and discovered a passion for dairy cattle through volunteer work at the Missouri State Fair.
Though her career path led her to elementary education, her love for dairy cattle remained strong. She became the Missouri State Fair Dairy Superintendent and instilled this passion in her daughters, Hannah and Sarah.
Sarah, raised with exposure to the dairy barn, naturally gravitated towards Mizzou and CAFNR. Unlike her mother, she became the one helping classmates unfamiliar with farm life during hands-on activities. This experience challenged her to effectively communicate and combine classroom knowledge with her practical skills.
Furthermore, Sarah's dedication and work ethic shone through when she readily accepted a job at the university's dairy farm during her sophomore year. Her mother, Amy Jo, witnessed her daughter's commitment and sense of responsibility firsthand.
Sarah attributes her confidence in class and her current career as a food animal veterinary assistant to her experience at the dairy farm. The hands-on work provided valuable knowledge and connections that proved beneficial in her academic and professional pursuits.
While Amy Jo's career took a different path, her passion for agriculture continues to influence her life. She showcases the joys of working with animals to her foreign exchange students, demonstrating the lasting impact of her own experiences.
This story highlights the transformative power of university experiences and the enduring legacy that can be built within families. Amy Jo's initial exploration of animal sciences, despite her initial challenges, blossomed into a lifelong connection to the agricultural community, a legacy now shared with her daughter, Sarah.
Photo Credit: university-of-missouri
Categories: Missouri, Education, General