Meet Scott McCord

Major: Food Science and Industry, minor in Bakery Science

Expected graduation year: 2027

Hometown: Plano, Texas

As an out-of-state student, why did you choose K-State?

People were really welcoming and made sure I felt comfortable on my visit. I knew the caliber and reputation of the College of Agriculture beforehand, but any time I asked a question, the ambassadors answered earnestly and never made me feel like I already should’ve known something.

Coming from an urban area, why were you interested in agriculture?

Agriculture is a part of our every day, whether people know it or not. National parks and conservation efforts are agriculture. Food systems affect everyone, too. It’s important to improve food systems and show others the importance of them.

How did you find community at K-State?

I met other out-of-state students from California, Florida and other states, and bonded with them. I also joined the Ag Ambassadors to meet people from other majors and backgrounds. It also exposed me to more agriculture fields.

What support does the Grain Science Department offer?

I get to learn from professors about their specializations in agriculture. I also learn about their experiences or work in the industry, so it becomes really helpful when I’m trying to capitalize on opportunities.

How does being an RA help build community?

All of the RA’s are in it together. We have each other to rely on. In my second year as an RA, I have 90 residents. I want to make sure they have people to attend sporting events with or to make study groups. I also want to ensure that they love K-State as much as I do.

I see students who were my residents last year around campus, and they greet me or others they lived with. They still have that community they built in the dorms.

How is the College of Agriculture helping you toward your future plans?

I get hands-on opportunities and experiences that apply to the industry. You learn job-required material in a classroom, but the hands-on applications make it understandable with real-world, industry equipment. It gives students a large advantage when going into an internship or the industry.