Reginald Fain, Student, B.S. in Animal & Veterinary Science

I chose this program because of my love for animals as a kid, and my newly found wonder of animal science within the USDA through a summer program called Ag Discovery I attended prior to college. I was shown everything that agriculture and the USDA covers and realized it’s so much more than just raising cows; it’s how we can use agriculture and improve it through innovations like automated AI farms and more. I now understand that Ag expands across many industries, so it’s important that we educate the greater population. 

As a student in CAENS, I have had the opportunity to experience what it will be like to work in the field. I value hands-on learning, so internships are what I really enjoy. Since I’m an 1890 USDA Scholar, I do an internship every summer to get experience in working directly with animals in areas like vaccinations and observing surgeries, and I’d like to own a veterinary practice one day. 

If you’re thinking about going into this field, you should know two things:  

1. Sometimes you'll fail, but it's about how you learn from your shortcomings. 
2. Speak all the success into existence, because the veterinary science journey is a very long one – but you can do it. 

CAENS has taught me that agriculture is the future. Everything is sourced from agriculture, so we need to find ways to improve processes and make the future more sustainable. Plus, there’s a lot of business opportunities in Ag as well, so whether you’re interested in raw materials, the environment, food, or something else, pursuing a major in Ag will be helpful for your career.  

Khim Ale, Student, M.S. in Animal & Poultry Sciences

I am researching for my thesis on the effect of hempseed meal for feed in goats.  

I became interested in animal nutrition while I got my bachelor’s degree in Nepal where I’m from, and I was impressed by the research of Dr. Nar Gurung at Tuskegee, so I looked up the program here, and I decided to attend. I had never been to the U.S. before, so I’ve had an amazing experience in a new place learning a new culture, and everyone has welcomed me. 

During my time at CAENS, I’ve had the opportunity to be a teaching assistant for three classes, where I conduct labs with students, guide them with problems and questions they have, and help conduct exams. CAENS is different because of the hands-on approach – during my research, I’ve been able to work directly with goats and hempseed meal to analyze results for my thesis. Part of my research allows me to use powerful technology to manage feed formula for animals and learn molecular techniques in the lab to understand how that affects what’s happening on the farm to improve processes.  

In the livestock industry, 60-70% of the total production cost is on animal feed, so in my field of study, we study the nutrient requirements of animals and discover ways to supply nutrients at a lower cost to optimize utilization. Hempseed meal is leftover product after oil is extracted from the plant, so right now, it is being wasted, yet it contains 35% protein. Our research is being reviewed by the FDA to prove that it can be an alternative protein for goat feed, which will help reduce the cost of food and make a huge difference in the industry. 

CAENS is innovative, impactful, and rich with opportunities. During my time here, I have presented my work at three conferences, which are great experiences to showcase my research. Here, you can explore your capabilities, gain confidence, and take on many opportunities that aren’t possible in most places.   

Thank you to Dr. Gurung and CAENS for providing me with all the opportunities and thank you for guiding me in each step of my graduate journey.  

Amir McKinstry, Student, B.S. in Agribusiness

I grew up cheering on the Golden Tigers. My dad, uncle, and brother all attended TU, and I came to Homecoming every single year as a child – we never missed it! 

When it came time to apply for college, unfortunately, I didn’t make the cut due to my initial test scores. But I was determined to transfer to Tuskegee. Even while I was attending another university, my closet was full of TU swag. I was always getting mistaken as a TU student, which didn’t bother me because I knew I was going to be. It was just a matter of time.  

Growing up in a Tuskegee family, I had always been told that the faculty and staff here will help you in any way they possibly can. So, I reached out to the school and shared my desire to transfer and become a Golden Tiger. Mr. Stone instantly became a mentor and even found scholarship opportunities for me – and I wasn’t even a TU student yet! 

As soon as I was accepted into the Agribusiness program at Tuskegee CAENS, I was presented with even more opportunities. I’ve participated in a school-sponsored internship, working on the FarmBot Genisus. This innovative technology is bringing AI to agriculture, allowing food to be produced without supervision. I’ve also worked alongside my research professors, getting hands-on experience combatting nematodes and ensuring crop health. All of this in addition to learning the ins and outs of the business and financial side of agriculture! 

And while the hands-on experiences have been rewarding, the networking opportunities that I've been given are invaluable. During my time here, I’ve been able to speak with leaders in the USDA, and even the US Secretary of Agriculture. These connections are possible because of Tuskegee University’s legacy and continuing reputation of excellence across the nation.  

After graduation, I plan to earn my MBA and then work for the USDA. If I could tell future Golden Tigers anything, I’d say: Every opportunity here creates an advantage for you in the future. Take hold of every opportunity CAENS has to offer. 

Nevada Jones, Student, B.S. Food & Nutritional Sciences

I view Food and Nutritional Science as a form of therapy. What we eat affects how we feel physically, but also how we feel emotionally and mentally. Your entire outlook on life can change based on the food you consume! That’s actually what first sparked my interest in dietetics.  

In high school, I started to realize how drinking soda impacted my ability to perform as an athlete. From there, my interest in nutrition took off, and I knew I wanted to help others make that connection for themselves. 

There are so many career opportunities in Nutritional Sciences. You can work in a hospital setting, helping patients with recovery. You can work with bariatric patients, people who are trying to lose weight. You can focus on specific conditions, like diabetes.  

For me, I want to pursue sports dietetics, helping athletes improve their performance through food. That’s what I’m passionate about since that’s where my own journey began.  

I started out at a local community college, but I ultimately chose to attend Tuskegee University and join CAENS because they provided me with the most opportunities to succeed. What really sets CAENS apart from other programs and other schools is the opportunity for hands-on experience in your field, starting in your freshman year. Plus, the faculty and staff are practitioners themselves, so every class incorporates real-world knowledge and the latest research. Everything is relevant to the career you’re pursuing! 

Through CAENS, I’ve been able to shadow a dietician at another prominent university, participate in summer internships, and develop meaningful mentor relationships with faculty. And I’m excited about even more opportunities in the pipeline, like potentially helping with a community food garden and studying abroad. 

I want future Golden Tigers to know: CAENS is a family. You can lean on the faculty and staff when you need help. They are willing and ready to help you chase your goals.  

When I was deciding where to go to college, my mom urged me to choose a HBCU. She said, “It’ll change your life.” And she was right! TU CAENS has been the perfect fit for me.