Love of animals sparks 4-H alumna’s interest in animal science, production agriculture
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EmailWith a love of animals, 4-H alumna and undergraduate animal science student Sadie Finegan dreams of a career in production agriculture.
Michigan 4-H alumna Sadie Finegan has always loved animals since she was a child. That’s why she says she decided to study animal science at Michigan State University and pursue a career that combines elements of production agriculture, animal reproduction and animal health.
“I chose my major because I grew up with having all kinds of animals, and I knew ever since I was little, I wanted to do something with them for my future career. I chose MSU because it is close to home, my parents went here for school and it has one of the best agriculture programs!” she said.
“My future plans are to find a job I really enjoy that works with beef cattle that could involve nutrition, reproduction, cow-calf operations or feedlots.”
Finegan is an animal science major from Jonesville, Mich. She is active in Sigma Alpha, Michigan Farm Bureau, the MSU Block and Bridle Club and is a recent Michigan 4-H alumna. Sadie is very passionate about animals and agriculture, and tends her own herd of eight cattle in addition to working on the MSU Research Farm, where she has participated in wheat breeding trials. Next summer, Finegan will be an intern at ABS Genetics, the world’s largest cattle breeder, and is interested in pursuing a career that combines elements of production agriculture, animal reproduction or animal health.
Finegan is one of the 2021 CANR Alumni Association Scholarship recipients.
Name: Sadie Finegan
Hometown: Jonesville, MI
Major/Concentration: Animal science with an animal industry concentration, minor in agribusiness management
Expected graduation date: May 2022
Why did you choose your major and why MSU?
I chose my major because I grew up with having all kinds of animals, and I knew ever since I was little I wanted to do something with them for my future career. I chose MSU because it is close to home, my parents went here for school, and it has one of the best agriculture programs!
Who or what inspired your interest in the major you selected?
Having animals growing up had the biggest impact on why I chose my major. Also, both of my parents are in agriculture and inspired me to also pursue a degree in the agriculture field.
What has been one of your best experiences within your major so far?
One of the best experiences is joining the sorority Sigma Alpha. I have made so many friends that have the same interests as me and have also gained connections in the agriculture industry.
What do you want others to know about this major?
That there is a lot more to animal science than just to become a veterinarian. I am an animal industry concentration and there are a lot more jobs that deal with animals that most people don’t know about.
What are some of the best things about being an MSU student?
Some of the best things are getting to be on a great campus, having a lot of different activities to make new friends and the Dairy Store! Also, that there is a club for everyone and their interests.
Any thoughts or advice for current or new students?
My advice would be to go straight to the college you want to go to instead of going to a community college. I say that because I don’t regret coming here as a freshman a single bit. Also, I would say to have as much fun as you can, make as many friends as you can and to step out of your comfort zone.
What are your future plans?
My future plans are to find a job I really enjoy that works with beef cattle that could involve nutrition, reproduction, cow-calf operations or feedlots. I’m not 100% sure what I want to do exactly.
