Mariah Mitchell
STB Student

For Iowa State Cyclone volleyball player, Mariah Mitchell, interacting among peers and working professionals within the online Graduate Program in Seed Technology and Business (STB) has been one of the greatest assets to the program and is something she feels will help her upon entering the work force after graduation.

Mariah, currently in her first year of the STB program, has yet to dive into a full-time job within the field of seed science. However, thanks to the program’s close interaction among the students, instructors, and staff, she has been able to gain a sense of what to expect once she enters the field full time.

“Because of the program’s impacts, I feel as if I can approach employers and other working individuals with more confidence knowing that I have the knowledge to carry myself in professional settings.”

Although Mariah is only in her first year of the STB program, she already feels the courses she’s completed have prepared her for future projects, professional encounters, and career opportunities. She attributes her preparedness to her peers and instructors who encourage questions and interactions to learn from one another.

“Our faculty and staff work hard to make themselves available to advise and support the students in the STB program,” says Lori Youngberg, STB Graduate Program Coordinator. “We understand there’s more going on than school. We try to remain flexible and responsive to the students’ needs.”

Being both a graduate student and Cyclone volleyball player, Mariah greatly appreciates the flexibility of the program. She gets to log in when it fits into her schedule. “The STB program has been nothing short of amazing. I love that I don’t have to report online at specific times, and I can get my work done weekly, at my own pace.” says Mariah.

We are excited to see how far Mariah goes after her adventure at Iowa State. She is a wonderful example of how hard working and dedicated our #seedleaders are. Go Cyclones!

Current position:

I am currently working through my first year of the STB program and playing collegiate volleyball for the Cyclones. Ideally, I am interested in positions regarding plant breeding or other agronomic practices.

Why did you choose the field of agriculture/agronomy?

A family I had gotten really close with about 5 years ago is heavily involved with the industry and had a lot of knowledge to share with me. They quickly showed me how much there is to love about agriculture and how I could use my passions to change the world. Since then, I have used every opportunity I could to gain a vast amount of knowledge.

Tell us about your experience so far being an online learner in the STB program.

The STB program has been nothing short of amazing. I love that I don’t have to report online at any specific times, and I can get my work done weekly, at my own pace. Professors have always encouraged questions and answered accordingly. I am completing the program in 2 years, so I was a bit worried about the workload. But, it has been very manageable and professors have your best interest at heart. I cannot express how thankful I am for this program and its faculty members.

Do you think the STB program will help you professionally?

Yes! I have been given the opportunity to connect with working professionals and hear their experiences relating to the courses. I may not be a full-time employee, but hearing from others working in the agricultural industry has helped me learn how to engage with others and what to expect within the workforce.

What have you learned in the program that will benefit you upon entering the work force?

Because of the program’s impacts, I feel as if I can approach employers and other working individuals with more confidence knowing that I have the knowledge I need to carry myself in professional settings. This is both from the information gained in courses and discussion posts from peers. I feel more qualified for jobs and projects.

What has been the greatest part STB course work?

I love the feeling of finishing a STB course because the professors have prepared me for future projects, professional encounters, and careers. All the time spent working through coursework and conversing with professors and peers is worth the knowledge I get to walk away with. These courses are the right amount of challenging.

Would you recommend this program to other professionals and peers?

I would 100% recommend this program to anyone who wants to work towards another degree and expand their knowledge in agriculture. Courses are very flexible and work well with a busy schedule. The faculty are the best I have ever worked with, and they work hard to make this program well suited for you. Every time someone asks me how my program is going, I express how happy and thankful I am to be a part of STB.

Become a #seedleader today!