College Returns to World Ag Expo

The Huntley College of Agriculture returned in person to the World Ag Expo after a two-year absence.

Interim Dean Martin Sancho-Madriz, the Ag Ambassadors, and Student Success Services & Recruitment Coordinator Rosa Lamas Serratos represented the college at the Feb. 8-10 event at the International Agri-Center in Tulare, Calif.

It was the first time that the ambassadors had attended the expo in person since 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic forced expo organizers to convert the event into a digital gathering in 2021, in which the ambassadors participated.

The ambassadors manned a booth, greeting visitors, answering questions, providing information about the college.  

Ag Ambassador Alysia Baca, a senior in apparel merchandising and management from Stockton, was inspired to see visitors from all over the world.

“My most enjoyable part was being able to talk to different kinds of people of all ages and being able to hear their stories,” she said.

Ag Ambassador Arianda Cass liked interacting with prospective students.

“I enjoyed seeing their faces light up when discussing the opportunities and classes Cal Poly Pomona has to offer,” said Cass, a graduate student in agricultural science.

Talking with prospective students at the World Ag Expo was beneficial in another way for Cass (’21, agricultural science), a first-generation college student from West Covina who aspires to teach agriculture.  

“The topic of choosing a post-secondary institution can be rather stressful to discuss, especially for students who haven’t considered their options or are first-gen,” she said.

“However, I am now better experienced and able to effectively discuss this topic with any prospective or individual,” Cass said. “This experience has helped me gain more confidence in my communication skills and be personable when speaking with others.”

Baca, who hopes to become a leader in the fields of sustainability and logistics/supply chain, echoed Cass’s sentiments about gaining confidence.

“Be able to come to the World Ag Expo helped me step out of my comfort zone of being afraid to talk to people to then being able to speak with confidence,” she said. “I believe confidence is one of the keys to success.” 

In addition to prospective students and international visitors, several Cal Poly Pomona alumni working in the agricultural industry also stopped by to visit the booth.

The ambassadors also had dinner with Rose Epperson – a principal with West Coast Arborists Inc. and a member of the college Board of Advisors – and her husband Al on Feb. 9.