Genevieve O’Riley loves the hands-on experience of her degree program
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EmailThe best part of being a horticulture major is having class in the teaching greenhouses!
Genevieve O’Riley is a undergraduate student studying Horticulture with a concentration in Horticultural Science.
Why did you choose Horticulture as your major/degree?
Beginning my college experience as an education major at a different university, I never felt as if I that was where I belonged. I had a fascination for houseplants after I moved into my own apartment, I was constantly researching plants on my own time.
Then I found out you could actually learn about plants and get a degree in plant sciences, which I hadn’t previously known before. I looked into the Horticulture program here at MSU and knew that was the path I wanted to take. If you’re not doing something you love, why do it?
What has been the best experience in your major so far?
My best experiences have been on the class field trips. Coming from a family that isn’t involved in the agriculture industry in any way, I had never been in that many greenhouses before. Being up close and learning about what goes on inside was very important in my learning experience and figuring out where I want to go in the industry.
What is the best-selling point about your major that you would like others to know?
The best part of being a horticulture major is having class in the teaching greenhouses! When I started taking courses at MSU my first class “Intro to Horticulture” had a lab in the greenhouse, and I absolutely loved it. The hands-on experience I received is so valuable, but also so much fun. I now know I made the right choice by switching majors.
What are your future plans?
Currently, I’m interning at a chemical company working in the grow lab, and I’ve really loved my experience so far. After my graduation in December 2021, I plan to stay in the chemical industry with hopes to continue being able to work with plants daily!
