Why Spring Start was the right beginning
Raised in Greentown, Indiana, a town just east of Kokomo, Hunter Foland grew up surrounded by agriculture, community and a strong connection to Purdue.
Now an animal sciences major who plans to graduate in December 2027, Foland is making his mark on campus as a Spring Start student and active leader within the College of Agriculture.
“With my love of Purdue and the prestige of the College of Agriculture, it was a no-brainer when I accepted my Spring Start offer.”
The Purdue College of Agriculture Spring Start program (CASS) offers qualified students the opportunity to start their college experience in the spring semester.
Passion Made Practical
“With that passion for livestock, animal sciences was an easy choice"
Foland’s interest in animals began early. He has shown livestock since he was 5, and at 13 he started his own show pig operation, Foland Showpigs.
That passion drives him in the classroom and beyond as he explores opportunities in livestock production and leadership.
supportive learning and a strong start
Foland credits the Department of Animal Sciences for creating an environment focused on student success.
“The main goal of the department is to see students succeed,” he said. “Whether it is through advising or classes, they make it clear they want you to be successful.”
Foland said the CASS experience helped him transition smoothly into Purdue while building confidence and community.
“There is definitely a sense of community among CASS students,” he said.
One of the biggest benefits, he noted, was the opportunity to take a semester away from full-time coursework.
“That time allowed me to work, prepare financially for school and still take classes on the side,” he said.
A Purdue fan since he was a child, Foland poses with Purdue basketball coach, Matt Painter. 
Hunter Foland poses with a lamb at the Purdue Animal Sciences Research and Education Center (ASREC). 
Hunter Foland holds chick at Purdue's ASREC. getting involved from day one
Foland quickly found ways to get involved. One of his most meaningful experiences has been joining Purdue Student Government (PSG).
“I was elected to the senate to represent the College of Agriculture,” he said. “PSG has given me another sense of community and the chance to represent my peers.”
His involvement reflects both his interest in politics and his desire to serve others.
“My passion for livestock and politics keeps me engaged,” he said.
Foland says his drive comes from the values he learned growing up, especially the lessons passed down from his late grandfather, known to his grandchildren as Papaw.
“He taught me to work hard, stay humble and never waste an opportunity. I try to carry that mindset with me in everything I do.”
advice for future boilermakers
For students still considering their Purdue offer, Foland’s advice is straightforward.
“Accept it,” he said. “You won’t regret the relationships you build and the pathway to success you receive at Purdue.”
He also encourages students to step outside their comfort zone.
“Get involved. Coming from someone who is introverted, you would be surprised how many doors will open.”
After Purdue, Foland hopes to build a career in swine production while also pursuing opportunities in politics, combining his agricultural roots with leadership and public service.
With a strong start, supportive community and clear sense of purpose, Foland’s Purdue journey is just beginning.
Featured Stories
Zachary Feiner, who earned his PhD from FNR in 2015 and spent two additional years in West...
In 1951, Purdue University faculty members traveled more than 4,000 miles from West Lafayette,...
Sophomore wildlife major Gloria Aichinger spent her summer as a seasonal laborer at Theodore...
Concealed within the molecular machinery of petunia flowers are metabolic, genetic and cellular...
Senior aquatic sciences major Morgan Hamilton took her skills and interests on the road for a...
Risk & Mycotoxin Management in Indiana Corn