Ag Education Student Spotlight: Natalie Anselmo

Fresno State ag education student Natalie Anselmo has gotten a unique perspective of the Jordan College and its ties to the future of Central Valley agriculture by also serving as a student assistant in the Dean's Office.

The Madera Ranchos native has helped staff manage the administrative needs of many of the College's research projects, while also playing key roles for the College's Student Leadership Council, Sigma Alpha sorority, Agricultural Ambassadors and National Teach Ag programs.

Read more how becoming an ag teacher at Lemoore High School is fulfilling a dream for the recent #FresnoStateGrad that was planted by her own high school ag teachers at Minarets High School in this interview.

 

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

“I chose to attend Fresno State because of the agriculture education program, and I am ‘Bulldog born, Bulldog bred,' third-generation Fresno State student. The university is something that my family is very passionate about, and our other degrees include human resources (mother Stacy Anselmo-Billings), business (father Mark Anselmo) and natural resources (grandfather Bill Richards).” 

“During high school, I knew I wanted my future career to have something to do in the agricultural field, and I picked my major because of the impact my high school agriculture teachers at Minaret High School had on my life. Several life-altering events occurred my junior year of high school, and my agriculture teachers were the most stable adults in my life and showed me so many opportunities. This is when I knew I wanted to become an agriculture education teacher. I want to provide opportunities for my students, just as my teachers did, and show them the importance of agriculture. I also have an academic emphasis in agricultural business with my ag education degree.”

 

Q: Which classes and faculty members have had the biggest influence on you while at Fresno State?

“A Jordan College staff member who has a key influence on my time at Fresno State is Allyson Baldus, who has been an important part of my life while working in the Dean’s Office. Not only does she make work fun, but she has taught me skills that I will take with me in my future career. I have also been able to meet many donors and attend events because of her efforts.”

 

Q: Have you been involved with research on campus, and how will it benefit your career path?

“I have not worked directly with research on campus. However, working in the Dean’s Office, I have helped our staff oversee Agricultural Research Institute (ARI) research project administration. I help manage cost center spreadsheets, turned in annual assessments, and organized documents.” 

 

Q: What was your prior background in agriculture?

“Before starting at Fresno State, I was very involved in FFA and was able to learn about the industry and the importance of it. I competed in parliamentary procedure, which is a contest that requires extensive knowledge in agriculture. This contest helped me learn about every sector of agriculture and organizational and legislative procedures.” 

 

Q: Describe any internships or jobs you've had at Fresno State, and how have they prepared you for your career path?

"My student assistant position in the Jordan College Dean’s Office required me to maintain budget spreadsheets, help with the graduation ceremony (create the program, cords, etc) and help with events. I also met donors and faculty members and learned how the college works on a deeper level. I also benefited from opportunities, such as attending California Ag Teachers Association (CATA) conferences, growing computer application skills, and helping host college events.” 

 

Q: What clubs and organizations at Fresno State have you been a part of?

• Sigma Alpha- 2022-2023 (1 ½ terms) Treasurer, Member 2021-23
• Jordan College Leadership Council 2022-2023
• NAAE Teach Ag Ambassador- 2022-23
• Agriculture Ambassadors- 2019-2023
• Fresno State Mock Trial- 2021-22 Treasurer, 2021-22 Social Media Chair

 

Q: Have you received any scholarships related to campus, the Jordan College or Ag One?  

“I was a two-year recipient of the Ag One-Penn Cummings Memorial / T.G. Schmeiser Scholarship, Ag One-Dr. Charles M. Smallwood Family Scholarship and Ag One-Ross Borba, Sr. Family Scholarship."

 

Q: Have you overcome any challenges to get where you are today that have shaped who you are?

“When I started at Minarets High School, I was extremely shy and hated talking in front of people. My agriculture teacher, Mrs.Kristi Matters, saw something in me and started “volun-telling” me to do activities. This broke me out of my shell and shaped me into who I am today. Through her opportunities and support, I grew confidence and know I can accomplish whatever I set my mind to.” 

 

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

“I couldn’t have finished my degree without everyone I met along the way. I am incredibly grateful for my time at Fresno State and for all of the memories I have made. Thank you to my family, friends and teaching cohort for the support you have given me.” 

 

Q: What's next for you after graduation?

“I am beyond excited to have been hired at Lemoore High School where I student taught (after doing her initial student teaching at Firebaugh High School). The students, community and colleagues there (at Lemoore) make it the perfect fit for me."