A world of opportunity in Agricultural Economics
G
rowing up traveling the world, Abigail Bothwell always wanted to see how agriculture connects people across borders. At Purdue, she found the perfect place to turn that curiosity into real-world experience.
Bothwell, from Denver, Colorado, is majoring in agricultural economics with a concentration in public policy and pre-law and plans to graduate in May 2026. She originally arrived at Purdue intending to study in a different department, but an introductory agricultural economics class quickly changed her path.
A Path to Policy
“Agricultural economics spoke to everything I wanted to do for my community, especially through policy and decision-making," Bothwell said.
She chose Purdue not only for its academic strength but also for its sense of community. Advisors, faculty and fellow students helped support from the start, even as she adjusted to life far from home.
“I graduated from a small high school in Colorado with just 15 students in my class,” she said. “Coming to Purdue was intimidating at first, but I felt a sense of belonging the moment I toured campus.”
a sense of belonging
That sense of belonging encouraged Bothwell to say yes to opportunities that pushed her beyond her comfort zone, especially study abroad. She has participated in three international programs through Purdue, including a Maymester in Spain and Portugal, a semester at the University of Canterbury in Christchurch, New Zealand, and, most recently, a winter break program in southern India.
While in India, Bothwell explored food and agriculture systems, toured agricultural industries and visited three universities. The program allowed her to connect with students abroad and compare education systems and trade practices.
“We were able to have real conversations with students about what school looks like for them,” she said. “It was interesting to see how different and similar our experiences were.”
Bothwell stands in front of the Unfinished Block P Statue, a campus landmark in West Lafayette. 
Bothwell enjoying Purdue campus activities with friends. 
Bothwell poses along water during study abroad trip. getting involved from day one
Back on campus, Bothwell stays engaged serving in leadership roles with the Purdue Grand Prix Foundation for three years and as an international agriculture ambassador, encouraging other students to study abroad.
“Watching students take that step and thrive, even on a short trip, has been really rewarding,” she said.
Her advice to students still deciding whether Purdue is the right fit is simple.
“Take the leap,” Bothwell said. “It’s scary, especially if you’re far from home, but find the things that excite you and lean into them. It will pay off.”
Looking ahead, Bothwell plans to work in land development as an acquisition analyst, with the possibility of attending law school to focus on real estate or water law for farmers and ranchers in the western United States.
Through Purdue Agriculture, she has discovered that learning does not stop at the classroom door. Sometimes, it takes traveling across the world to find clarity, confidence and a deeper understanding of how agriculture shapes communities everywhere.
Featured Stories
Steve Dahnke, Jack Ward and Larry and Janet White join the ILBA Hall of Fame.
Agave americana, also known as the century plant, has evolved for a dry desert life. For 30...
The Purdue student chapter of the Society of American Foresters participated in the 69th Midwest...
Every other year, the FNR 53600/53601 Ecology of Natural Disturbances class takes a spring break...
Meet the Purdue Animal Sciences students educating visitors at Animal Town.
Porterfield founded MycoGravity — the Purdue Innovates Office of Technology...