From farm roots to future agronomist: Finding a home at Purdue Agriculture
Growing up on a farm in Greensburg, Indiana, Purdue sophomore Justin Bedel developed a love for crop production that led him to major in agronomy with a concentration in crop and soil management as well as pursue a minor in food and agribusiness management.
Family ties drew him to Purdue. “I had family that came to Purdue and loved the experience and the impact it had on their future,” Bedel said. Agronomy was a natural fit. “I wanted to enhance my knowledge of something that had such a significant impact on my childhood."
A department that feels like family
Speaking about agronomy faculty, Bedel says: “They truly care about the future of all of their students and work to unlock each student’s potential.”
Bedel served as chair of the Spring Fest committee for the Agronomy Club. He led planning for the department’s booth, which showcased different types of corn and soil textures and offered visitors popcorn treats. He also helped design Harvest Hoops, a restored gravity wagon turned basketball game. It was a hit.
Inspiring Visitors
“It was great to see how much visitors enjoyed the agronomy booth, and it was a transformative experience for me,” he said.
Last summer he completed his first internship with Premier Ag, a farmer’s cooperative serving southern Indiana. As an agronomy operations intern, he scouted fields, conducted soil and tissue sampling, assisted with research plots, supported account managers and helped with inventory and deliveries.
“I was able to provide essential data for farmers while also gaining a better understanding of how agronomy services support customers,” he said.
A sense of belonging
He said places such as the crops and soils resource centers are great spots to study, collaborate with peers and stay engaged. Beyond academics, people have made Purdue feel like home.
“When I accepted my offer to Purdue, I didn’t realize how many amazing people I would meet. From faculty and fellow students to alumni, everyone has made an impact that will extend far beyond my time here,” he said. “Purdue has truly become a home, and I’ve found my sense of belonging in a community where everyone treats each other like family.”
ADVICE FOR FUTURE BOILERMAKERS
His advice to incoming students is to get involved. “Extracurricular activities allow you to meet great people and open doors for opportunities to travel, learn beyond the classroom and make lifelong memories,” he said.
Looking ahead, he plans to pursue a career helping farmers maximize yields while promoting sustainable practices
“My goal is to become an expert who can advise on the best agricultural techniques to help farmers thrive in a competitive market.”
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