Sarah Bryant received Dual Degrees in Agricultural Economics and Marketing in 2021. Bryant now works as the Kentucky Agriculture Development Fund Programs Manager at the Kentucky Office of Agricultural Policy. In Bryant’s position, she is responsible for managing the application process, education, oversight, and program development for the KADF county programs.

Q: Trends show that upon graduating, most professionals will change jobs several times. Have you stayed in the same position since graduating or moved into new ones? 

A: I have stayed in the same position since graduating. I've been here for about 2.5 years and really enjoy it. 

Q: Is your current professional path where you would have envisioned yourself as an undergraduate? 

A: Not really! I honestly didn’t know what exactly I wanted to do when I was in college, but I am quite happy with where I ended up.  

Q: How do you feel your undergraduate and/or graduate studies within the Agricultural Economics Department prepared you for your current position? 

A: I feel the department prepared me well for my current position by teaching critical thinking skills in my classes that really helped prepare me for the workforce. 

Q: How have the relationships you formed within the Agricultural Economics Department contributed to your success? 

A: The connections I made in the department have contributed to my success by allowing me to create a network which I continue to utilize in my current position.  

Q: What piece of advice do you have for undergraduates who are preparing for graduation? 

A: 1. Don’t put so much pressure on yourself to succeed. I have found that the most valuable skills in the workplace are critical thinking and teamwork. Everything else can be taught. 2. Learn how to use Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, etc. now! These are extremely valuable skills that you’ll be able to utilize in ANY job. 

Q: Was there an influential faculty member, professor, or general class you feel affected your current professional path? If so, explain.  

A: Susan Skees was my advisor and I owe a lot of my success to her. She connected me with my current position, and she has been a wonderful mentor throughout my college and professional career.