Alumni Spotlight
Name: Halley Nett
Current Title: Process Implementation Lead
Organization: Cargill
Majors: B.S. Agricultural Communications and Journalism, 2007
K-State College of Ag is proud to recognize alumni from all departments who continue to pursue their passion in their respective fields. It is through experience that we continue to grow as individuals and stewards of the industry. Through those experiences, we hope to be a continued resource for the next generation of K-State students to lean on for advice and continue to build our network!
Why did you choose your major?
I decided on agricultural communications and journalism as a freshman in high school. I visited a beef symposium, listened to a Beef Council member, and it sounded like an interesting area of focus. I enjoyed graphic design and realized I could put the two skills together with agricultural communications. Once I got to K-State, I interviewed with Cargill at the career fair for a sales job that I thought could be a good entry point. I had sold ads for the Agriculturist magazine, so I felt prepared for the step into sales.
In what ways has your academic major contributed to your success in your current career?
We always make sure that we communicate correctly with our customers and industry leaders on the launches of new programs. We want to be delicate in how we communicate and make sure that our message is clear, so they’re not hearing different messages from different people. I also learned through agricultural communication how to work with different personalities to understand and value the differences. I use that a lot now; everyone has their niche, and you have to learn how to appreciate the different contributions that make the project successful. It’s not just about me. It's about all of us and operating as one to achieve success.
What role did Ag Ambassadors play in your time at K-State?
It was a big family. We had a special bond; we spent many hours in Waters Hall and doing retreats at Dr. Boggs' house. Everybody got along well and we continue to as we go through our careers. I’ve kept in touch with a lot of past ambassadors. When I got to Cargill and was asked to be on the Kansas FFA Foundation board to represent them, it was fun to already have connections from K-State. I wouldn’t have had them if I had gone somewhere else or not been an ag ambassador.
Do you have any advice for current students?
I always tell students to get involved. It can’t do anything but help you and get you out of your comfort zone. In community college, I was on the International Collegiate Horse Show team, and I didn’t show horses growing up. I joined the rodeo club, and I didn’t have a rodeo background. The relationships and experiences that you get prepare you for the real world. Being in Block and Bridle and Ag Communicators of Tomorrow brought different experiences, and really helped me develop as a person. I would also tell students to be their own person. Don’t be afraid, don’t limit yourself, and take advantage of what’s in front of you.