Animal Science Student Spotlight: Hayley Sanchez

Recent graduate Hayley Sanchez's appreciation for how our 1,000-acre campus farm gives Fresno State students working in the entire food supply chain is certainly unique.

Besides her work as the Gibson Farm Market, she has also learned about food production as a campus dairy and creamery student assistant (and all the related animal welfare and food safety processes that ensure the highest quality products to our Central Valley customers).  

The Easton native wrapped up her animal science degree in December, and learn more about her impressive background and where her job search is pointing her next in this recent interview.

Q: Why did you choose to attend Fresno State, and how did you pick your major?

Sanchez: “Fresno State and its the agriculture area is the best around and closest to what I want to do in the future. I picked my major, Animal Science, because I grew up in the industry, and it only seems right to dive back into it and make the changes I want to see in the world happen. It was a no-brainer for me,  I’ve had the best experience here and have loved all my teachers!”

 

Q: Did you have any other family members graduate or attend Fresno State?

Sanchez: “I am the first to graduate from the University!” 

 

Q: Which faculty members and areas had a major influence on you while at Fresno State?

Sanchez: “The classes that had the biggest impact on me were most definitely infectious diseases, anatomy and physiology, and beef production. They were the most enjoyable and the professors really made learning interesting. A huge shoutout to Dr. O’Bannon. Her classes made me grow so much in my study skills, and the knowledge I have after is something I will never take for granted.”

 

Q: Talk about any campus farm units you have worked at, and skills you have learned that you can apply to your career.

Sanchez: “I have worked at multiple units on the Fresno State farm. However, I have worked the longest at the Gibson Farm Market which displays all products our University has to offer! I started at the market my freshman year and learned so much about retail and customer service. I spent some time at the campus creamery learning how to make our ice cream, milk and cheese products. The food science side is definitely something I learned a lot about being an employee there. I also worked on campus at the dairy, which I enjoyed since I grew up on a dairy farm. Currently, I am the HR at the market, and have filtered through most of the lead positions. I have managed our basket-making process, marketing, monthly inventory, training processes and managing payroll.  I have grown a lot working there, and it was a great way to get out of my comfort zone and learn about our produce at the same time!” 

 

Q: What was your prior background in agriculture?

Sanchez: “Prior to coming to Fresno State, my family was heavily involved in the world of agriculture. I grew up raising cows on a small dairy farm, and also learned how to farm 20 acres of raisin grapes, and a switch to alfalfa recently. I have learned so much through all of this change and feel as though it makes me adaptable to different industries! I raised replacement heifers in 4-H and also FFA. Throughout life I have milked, watered the fields, picked the produce in the fields, you name it - I’ve done it! My hometown (Easton) is also well-known for the agriculture program at the local high school.” 

 

Q: Are there any other interesting notes about yourself that you would like to include?

Sanchez: “Working on campus through various units on the farm helped me see the bigger picture when it comes to agriculture. From working on the dairy and milking cows to processing that same milk at the on-campus creamery, then turning around and selling the product was such a rewarding experience. The overall idea of 'Farm to Table' is heavily emphasized here at Fresno State and lets students in on what the real world will look like.” 

Sanchez: “Other interesting things to note about myself is I love being outdoors. Fishing is one of my favorite hobbies with my brother. I love working with animals, and I valued my time showing in FFA and 4-H as it let me get closer to an animal I saw every day.” 

 

Q: What's your potential next career step(s) after graduation?

Sanchez: “As of right now, I am looking for jobs within my field. I am aiming towards becoming a state inspector for dairy commodities.”