21 Questions for Gretchen Blackburn

1. What is your hometown? Francesville, IN

2. Where did you go to high school? West Central High School (graduating class of 56) Blackburn Cow

3. What is your major/concentration? Animal Sciences - Production

4. What is your expected graduation date? May 2020

5. Why did you choose Purdue for undergrad? It's the best school for Agriculture!

6. What are your plans after graduation? Possible continuing education with a Master's program or vet school, but definitely moving to Iowa to raise livestock (especially beef cattle) and a family

7. What is your 'spirit animal?' A cow - a self-proclaimed 'cow whisperer'

8. What is your favorite organization joined at Purdue? Block & Bridle and Collegiate Cattleman's Association

9. What is your proudest achievement while at Purdue? Having a great first semester with a good GPA

10. What has been your favorite class taken at Purdue? ANSC 102 - Intro to Animal Agriculture with Dr. John Patterson - the labs are a lot of fun

11. What is your favorite Purdue tradition? The Paint Crew Blackburn Animals

12. What is the best thing about the College of Ag? Purdue is a big community, but the College of Ag feels like a small family of people who share a passion for Agriculture.

13. What is the best thing about the Department of Animal Sciences? Their determination to make sure each individual succeeds.

14. What is the best on-campus study spot? The Parrish Library of Management & Economics in Krannert - quiet with big windows and a lot of good study space

15. What is your favorite place in town? Cold Stone Creamery! What's better than ice cream? Blackburn Piglets

16. What is the most important thing you've learned outside of the classroom? Being yourself and letting other people get to know you for who you are - it's not about impressing others, just share a passion.

17. Where did you study abroad and what did you do? Study abroad is definitely on the college bucket list, but no plans to go yet - ideal trip includes studying some place warm while participating in animal research.

18. What internships have you had? None as a college student yet, but high school experiences include working at a local ice cream shop and a co-op at a Vet Clinic during senior year.

19. What is your favorite quote? "Do what you love and you'll never have to work a day in your life."

20. What are your hobbies? Hunting, fishing, camping, crafting and DIY, working with livestock

21. What advice would you give to incoming students? Work hard, have fun, and meet new people - it might be hard to initiate conversation, but it will definitely be worth it.