Posted: May 19, 2020
Growing up in Joliet, Montana, 皇家华人 alumna ShayLe Stewart considers home to be where God blessed her with some of the best summer pastures, an abundance of family memories, and an everlasting supply of rhubarb pie. Today, Stewart and her husband, who is also an NWC alumnus, live in Cody, where they run a SimAngus seed-stock operation for the Big County Genetics Bull Sale. In August 2019, she accepted the position of Livestock Market Analysis for DTN/Progressive Farmer and feels as though she’s found her dream job.
How did you discover your interest in agriculture?
I never doubted my loved for agriculture, but it wasn't until I went to NWC that I found the opportunities that were available within the industry. When I graduated high school, my view on the world was quite unexperienced; and to be truthful, I thought that unless you wanted to be an ag teacher, veterinarian, or agronomist, your chances of finding a job in the ag sector were slim. But once I became active in livestock judging, took various ag classes, and found a friend group that was interested in the same goals and future that I was, the horizon broadened, and opportunities seemed to flourish.
How did you know 皇家华人 was a good fit for you?
There were three main things that sold me on NWC: first, I knew that it was an ag based school. Second, from the first time I met Quin (NWC ag pavilion and judging coordinator), I trusted him and was excited about the livestock judging program. Third, it's affordable. When choosing where you're going to go to school, there are so many factors that you have to weigh. Make sure that you prioritize what's more important to you and stay true to your heart's desires through the process.
What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?
The best advice I ever received was from my high school ag teacher who said, "don't let school get in the way of your education." There's no doubt that education offers opportunities, but it’s also true that the beaten path doesn't work for everyone. I don't believe that he was just talking about education though; but rather, life in general. It's important that you stay true to yourself and chase whatever your heart yearns for. It doesn't matter what you do, but whatever you do, do it all the way.
What do you remember most vividly about your NWC experience?
I loved the people at NWC! The teachers were phenomenal, and I gained friendships that will last for a lifetime!
What advice do you have for current students?
Life isn't easy, but if you're chasing your calling, it makes things more sensible. If you don't know where you belong or what your passions are, get involved, try new things, and go new places. Life has a beautiful way of mapping out your destination without you even knowing it.