Growing a future in agrosecurity
For Andrew Monnin, a student from Cicero, Indiana, Purdue Agriculture felt like the right fit from the start. Planning to graduate in December 2026, he is majoring in agricultural systems management (ASM) with a concentration in agrosecurity.
“I chose Purdue Agriculture because of its internationally recognized status and the opportunity to learn from some of the greatest experts in the world,” he said. “When I discovered the agrosecurity concentration, I knew ASM was the major for me. It combines my fascination with complex agricultural systems and my interest in safety and security, all while providing the hands-on learning experiences I love.”
He describes the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering (ABE) as a place where faculty are approachable and invested in their students.
“The staff within ABE are incredibly knowledgeable and always happy to help,” he said.
The Opportunities are Endless
“What makes Purdue Agriculture special is how many disciplines are housed under one roof. It is amazing to be surrounded by people who care deeply about the world we live in and the food systems that sustain it.”
learning beyond the classroom
Getting involved in student organizations has also helped to shape his Purdue experience. As an ag ambassador for the college, he helps connect with prospective students and shares what makes Purdue special. “The opportunity to interact with future Boilermakers and talk about how impactful Purdue has been for me is something I am very proud to be part of,” he said.
He is also vice president of the ASM Club, which provides students opportunities to network, learn from industry professionals and tour agricultural facilities. “We’ve gone beyond the gates of companies such as Archer-Daniels-Midland and seen the amazing work Purdue students and alumni are doing in the industry,” he said.
Ag Ambassador portrait 
Andrew Monnin and friend 
Monnin selfie in hard hat ADVICE FOR FUTURE BOILERMAKERS
He said that despite Purdue’s size, it still feels personal. “Leaving a small high school, I was worried about being just another face in the crowd, but that couldn’t be further from the truth,” he said. “But professors know my name and wave when they see me in the hallway.”
His advice to new students is simple: make the most of every opportunity. “It’s OK to feel out of your element,” he said. “Take chances and try new things. Purdue has so much to offer, and what goes on in the classroom is only half of the experience. Join clubs, attend seminars, go on field trips and get involved. The experience is what you make it.”
Take chances and try new things. Purdue has so much to offer, and what goes on in the classroom is only half of the experience. Join clubs, attend seminars, go on field trips and get involved. The experience is what you make it.”
After graduation, he plans to pursue a career focused on safety and security in the agricultural industry. “Ensuring that food makes it from the field to the table safely, and that workers return home safely each night, is where my passion lies,” he said.
Featured Stories
Gary Steinhardt’s father once told him that he would never leave their farm because living...
Purdue Animal Sciences celebrated student creativity with an art show and departmentwide costume...
A tiny insect called the Hessian fly began plaguing U.S. wheat fields during the American...
Although Dean Zimmerman (BS Wildlife 1971) retired in 2015 after spending 43 years with the...
Dr. Jessica Gurevitch invites readers into a deeper understanding of the Earth system and its...
Farmer sentiment improved in October as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose...