I am Austin https://launchpad.classlink.com/home#myappsAnderson a rising sophomore attending South Carolina State University majoring in Agriculture. My passion for agriculture was nurtured during my high school years by my Ag teacher Mrs. Ramsey who gave us engaging hands on opportunities with farming, hydroponics growing towers, taking soil samples, and learning operational skills of using a tractor and other equipment. These meaningful classes at the Rock Hill (ATC)Applied Technology Center and the FFA (Future Farmers of America) competitions and conferences taught me to be a leader. These opportunities prepared me to be the president for two terms for Rock Hill School District and selected as a SC Boys State Representative in the leadership program. I feel that all of these key pieces lead me to further my training and gain experiences that will sharpen my craft and fuel my passion in the field of Agriculture/ Agribusiness. Attending an HBCU and getting the hands-on exposure is important to me, and being able to interact with other black like-minded brothers and sisters who want to better themselves and be successful. I am also inspired to continue the family legacy that has been established for me. Both of my parents, uncles and my grandfather attended this institution. My roots run deep at South Carolina State, and I want to feel the spirit of my ancestors as I matriculate and grow as a young black educated agribusiness major. My primary goals are to gain a degree in Agriculture and work with the USDA or an agriculture company. Another lifelong goal is to revitalize our family farm in hopes to increase land usage and eventually expand to establish my own farm. The need for innovative agriculture could help solve some of the critical issues with environmental and food disparities in our communities that suffer from food deserts. This is important to me as a future black farmer who wants to make a difference. Austin Anderson Austin.Anderson26@icloud.com