Animal Sciences and Agricultural Education
Anthony Cruz
Student Teacher
Area of Emphasis: Mechanics
Spring 2025 Final Student Teaching Placement: Tulare High School
Growing up in a family that consists of both farm laborers and farmers has influenced me tremendously in this path. Growing up with the “learning by doing” mentality that was fostered at such a young age and strengthened in high school by my wonderful ag teachers who never gave up on me, made me who I am today. Without my family and my former teachers, I would’ve never been the person I am today.
I was a bit of a different student when I came to Fresno State. I completed my Associates of Science in Agricultural Mechanics through a dual enrollment program offered by my former high school and Reedley College; all provided by the Wonderful Company. Because of this, I was able to complete my degree in 2.5 years. My most memorable class in my time here was my MEAG 120 class with Mr. John Williams that really strengthened my desire to become an ag teacher. I loved how we would tie in our classroom learning into literal field experience.
FFA has created an atmosphere of pride, humbleness, success, and learning opportunities in all things leadership and career development. In my time helping students with their livestock projects and fabrication plans, I see a spark and through some support and learning opportunities, I see myself 5 years ago in those students. I see motivation and passion in what they’re doing. It’s never about a ribbon, it’s about the learning journey, and that’s what I preach.
I have specialization in agricultural mechanics through both on farm experiences and through Fresno State. In addition, I’ve grown specialty in both plant and animal sciences not only through farm experiences, but while working with the NRCS and learning how to preserve our natural resources through various conservation practices. Learning how to not only operate and maintain a farm and equipment, but to also do so in a way that’s being long term aware of the environmental impacts has been a lot of fun.
In the future, I would really like to not only teach ag mechanics, OH, or biology, but also tie in natural resources education into it. Serving our community is a big part of FFA and tying in natural resources education into it ensures our communities are there for generations to come.
Outside of teaching, I enjoy fishing, hiking, backpacking, and hunting. Being in the mountains and both helping manage and learn about the local ecology is one of my favorite things. Aside from this, I also help manage our 60 acre family farm where we grow our Selma Petes for raisins and I also garden. There’s nothing like growing your own food and sharing it with those around you.