Alumni Spotlight
Name: Rachel Wilkins
Current Title: State Entomologist
Organization: Kansas Department of Agriculture
Major: B.S. Biology, 2017, M.S. Entomology, 2020
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 Entomology?
I always had a fascination with insects. At a very young age, I knew what “entomology” meant and could recite the three body parts of an insect (head, thorax, abdomen) by heart. When I got to K-State, I didn’t think about entomology as a major. I loved the outdoors and wildlife, so I chose a B.S. in biology.
After a couple of years, I decided to minor in entomology after taking some courses provided by the Entomology Department. I enjoyed my time at K-State, and with my passion for insects, I continued on to get my master's in entomology.
What is your current role, and what do you do?
I’m the state entomologist for the Kansas Department of Agriculture in the Plant Protection and Weed Control program. I oversee the entomological component of our program and focus on invasive insects that threaten Kansas’s agricultural and natural resources. I conduct surveys and assist with inspections to ensure these insects don’t enter the state. They often come in via human activity, for instance, through the movement of live plants, plant products (such as firewood), and outdoor equipment. Additionally, I talk about invasive insects at outreach events so Kansas communities can be aware of and report these insects if they see them.
Why did you choose K-State and the College of Agriculture?
When I walked through campus as a touring high school student, my first thought was that the limestone buildings were beautiful, but it was the people who truly guided my decision. The tour guides and staff I met were so friendly and welcoming, it got me excited to start college. I met with an advisor in the biology department and shared my collegiate goals, and I felt like they genuinely cared about my interests and making my time at K-State meaningful.
As an undergraduate student, I worked with some wonderful scientists at the USDA-ARS. One in particular was very supportive of me and my professional development. He was looking for a new master's student to join his lab, and I realized the opportunity in front of me, that this was my next step. That was my deciding factor to stay at K-State and choose the College of Agriculture.
How did mentorship influence your educational experience at K-State?
Mentorship was really important during my master’s experience, and I was lucky to have two incredible advisors, Dr. Rob Morrison and Dr. Kun Yan Zhu. I primarily worked with Dr. Morrison. From the basics of running a research lab to the complexities of experimental design, I learned so much through his mentorship. He also encouraged my participation in entomological conferences and research presentations, which greatly enhanced my public speaking skills. I learned the importance of teaching people what you do and why you’re doing it–why it is significant.
My advisors’ mentorship was a key part of my graduate school experience, and it allowed me to be successful in my future positions. As the sole entomologist in my current role, I can now pay it forward by being a mentor to others and inspiring future entomologists.