Animal Sciences and Agricultural Education
Nick Lara
Student Teacher
Area of Emphasis: Mechanics
Fall 2024 Final Student Teaching Placement: Kingsburg High School
Nick Lara was inspired to pursue a career in agricultural education by their passion for teaching and the diverse, hands-on learning opportunities agriculture offers. Growing up with a deep connection to the land and understanding the importance of agriculture, they felt called to guide students in discovering its real-world applications.
Educational Background:
Nick Lara earned a bachelor’s degree in agriculture education with an emphasis in mechanics. Throughout their undergraduate studies, courses on agricultural mechanics and hands-on fieldwork particularly influenced their decision to pursue teaching, reinforcing their belief in the need for practical, skills-based education.
Teaching Experience:
Nick Lara completed their student teaching at El Diamante and Kingsburg High School, where they taught courses in agricultural mechanics and agricultural science. During this time, they faced challenges in classroom management but quickly adapted, refining their leadership style to create an engaging, respectful classroom environment.
FFA Involvement:
FFA has played a crucial role in Nick Lara’s professional growth. They have advised FFA teams and supervised student projects, particularly in opening & closing, the creed, impromptu speaking, which has allowed them to mentor and guide students outside the classroom.
Skills and Specializations:
Specializing in agricultural mechanics, Nick Lara has honed strong communication and leadership skills through his service as a diesel mechanic in the United States Army. His student teaching experience further refined these abilities, with a focus on delivering hands-on lessons that encourage critical thinking and practical problem-solving.
Future Goals:
Looking ahead, Nick Lara aims to inspire curiosity and critical thinking in their students, creating a learning environment that fosters personal growth and a passion for agriculture. They hope to leave a lasting impact in agricultural education.
Personal Interests:
Outside of teaching hobbies I enjoy are working on cars or playing the guitar. These are activities I do that completely take my mind off everything else. In Bakersfield I didn’t have a strong connection to agriculture until I got into high school. That is where I got into agriculture, and realized how connected my community is to agriculture. I ended up working at a Christmas tree lot every year.