February 2018 Student of the Month: Libby Baker-Mikesell (@Baker_Mi16)

Each month we like to highlight students that have gone above and beyond in their involvement in the agriculture education program at PSU! We are proud to announce that Libby Baker-Mikesell was selected as the February's Student of the Month! Lets learn about her adventure and accomplishments so far.

Libby is a plant science major at Penn State, and she was inspired to become a plant science major due to her involvement in the National FFA Agriscience Fair. Libby's research had started on investigating issues within her family's beef farm, and eventually her research expanded into regional issues. She explained, "My primary research area was Plant Science, as I investigated best management practices to increase the health of the Chesapeake Bay. It was my research that led me to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in plant science." Her passion to purse this major is driven by helping students learn as they realize their potential. She believes that earning her Bachelor's Degree and studying agricultural education in a informal fashion will allow her to gain the hands-on knowledge necessary to succeed in and outside the classroom. 

After graduating with her Bachelor's Degree, Libby plans to earn her Master's Degree in Agricultural Education and teach either environmental or agricultural education in a informal setting. Her career goal is to learn something new every day. She states, "I believe that life is a learning experience and that everyone you meet has a different knowledge base. If I can approach life with a growth mindset and the goal of learning something new every day, I will have a successful career."  She stays motivated towards her major by maximizing her time on campus is reassuring that she will achieve her goals in life. 

Libby is also involved in several activities outside of class which include: Ag Student Council Secretary, LEAD Society Secretary, Collegiate Farm Bureau Ag Student Council Rep, and Lutheran Student Community Member. 

Fun Facts about Libby:
Hometown: Port Royal, PA
Graduation: Fall 2021
Birthday: September 25
Favorite PSU Class: HORT 101
Favorite places to eat in State College: Baby's, Primanti Bros.
Favorite athletics team/sport: Penn State Football, of course!
Favorite hangout on campus: Ferguson or the coffee shop above the bookstore

Luke Kerstetter

Communications Team Member

Twitter Handle: @lmkerstetter96

2020 Agricultural Education Student Teacher