Graduate Research: Laura Norris
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Hometown: Beallsville, OH
Degree program: Master in International Agriculture (M.Ag)
Expected Graduation date: May 2012
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Shida Henneberry
How has your scholarly work been personally rewarding?
This project has given me the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills that I have learned academically (undergraduate degree in wildlife biology and master degrees in linguistics and agriculture) and professionally (international educator). Also, I am excited to work on such a project that has allowed me the freedom to explore my creativity and is relevant, timely, and needed in today’s society.
Why did you decide to attend OSU for graduate work?
I chose OSU because of MIAP (Master in International Agriculture Program). This program allowed me the flexibility to take courses that I felt would balance out and enhance my career. Also, because OSU is a major land-grant university, I had the opportunity to be exposed to a variety of courses and seminar proceedings.
What has been the most surprising aspect of graduate work?
This is actually my second masters, so I was not surprised by the workload or quality of work that I had to turn in. However, I felt that coming back to graduate school after having been in the workforce for a decade gave me the chance to study again with a new perspective and with a deeper and greater appreciation for academia.
How do you think your current endeavors will prepare you for your chosen field after graduation?
I will start my new career after graduation for Ohio State University Extension as a 4-H Youth Development Extension Educator and County Director. The flexibility of MIAP, the generous support from my committee members and graduate coordinator of the program, and the work I did for my project helped prepare me for this position.