Ella Underberg, an agricultural leadership and agricultural communications major, has been named the Ferguson College of Agriculture Outstanding Transfer Student for her exceptional academic achievement, leadership, involvement and commitment to service during her first year at Oklahoma State University.
A native of Springville, New York, Underberg transferred to OSU in fall 2025 and quickly immersed herself in campus life. Through leadership programs, student organizations and service opportunities, she found community while building skills that prepared her for future success.
“My first year in the Ferguson College of Agriculture was one of the most meaningful and transformative periods of my life,” Underberg said. “It challenged me in ways I did not expect, but it also showed me that family is not just where you come from; it is something you can build. And in the Ferguson College, I did exactly that.”
Through her involvement on the Ferguson College Freshmen and Transfer Council, Underberg played an active role in event planning and Homecoming initiatives while building relationships across the college. Those experiences strengthened her commitment to student leadership and led to her election as the college’s Student Council reporter for the 2026-27 academic year.
Underberg is also a member of Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow, Block and Bridle and the OSU Student Foundation. Through her participation in multiple student organizations, Underberg found opportunities to serve, lead and engage with fellow students while creating relationships with faculty and staff.
Beyond campus involvement, Underberg’s volunteer service includes supporting Our Daily Bread, the Humane Society in Stillwater and Time to Shine.
“What stands out most about Ella is her commitment to building community,” said Dr. Cynda Clary, associate dean for academic programs. “She has invested her time in ways that bring people together, strengthen student organizations and create opportunities for others to succeed.”
Reflecting on her transfer experience, Underberg emphasized the importance of confidence and connection for future students.
“One tip I would give to incoming transfer students is to treat every room you walk into like it is already yours to belong in,” she said. “It is easy to feel like you are behind or trying to catch up, but college is built on relationships, not timelines.”