Animal science major Arianna D. Edinbugh ’28 from Columbia, Maryland, was among seven students who traveled to Dallas to represent the college at the MANRRS 40th Annual Training Conference and Career Expo in April. The National Society of MANRRS, formerly called the National Society of Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences, offers opportunities that inspire leadership and innovation. Here, she shares her experience connecting with industry leaders and students across the country to help shape the future of agriculture.
What inspired you to become a member of MANRRS?
I joined MANRRS because I wanted to join a community that embraces diversity, has opportunities and deals with agriculture. Having a place on campus with people who I relate to in terms of accomplishing goals and my experiences was encouraging. I remained active because I appreciated the way they helped develop my networking skills by engaging professionals within panel discussions and conducting resume-building workshops with the CALS career team, therefore allowing me to accomplish my personal development goals. MANRRS provides a platform where one is able to establish professional networks and gain confidence from people who are eager to see one succeed in meeting their goals.
What did attending the MANRRS conference mean to you?
I found both personal and professional value in my experience at the MANRRS conference. The event provided me personal inspiration because I witnessed my cultural community members unite to demonstrate their achievements in agriculture and related fields. The conference activities, which included competitive events, workshop sessions and networking opportunities, helped me to build self-assurance for my upcoming career path. The MANRRS40 conference showed me that representation, leadership and community connections hold critical value. It made me feel motivated, encouraged and proud to be part of such a strong community.
