NEWS

Graduate spotlight: Barrett Moore

May 14, 2018 | Applied and Natural Sciences, General News

Editor’s note: This is the second in a series on Louisiana Tech University Spring 2018 graduates. Commencement is Saturday, May 19, in the Thomas Assembly Center. The College of Applied and Natural Sciences, College of Business, and College of Engineering and Science commencement will begin at 10 a.m.; the College of Education and College of Liberal Arts commencement will begin at 5 p.m.

  • Barrett Moore, College of Applied and Natural Sciences
  • Age: 21
  • High school, hometown: Ruston High, Ruston
  • Degree: Agricultural Business (Minors: Business Administration, Plant Science)

At Ruston High, Barrett Moore grew to love the agricultural industry through his involvement with the National FFA (Future Farmers of America) Organization.
“I knew I wanted to become part of the industry that provides food, fiber, and energy to the world,” said the hometown senior, “and I knew that Tech’s agbusiness degree would put me on track to do just that.”
Between his classwork and his job at the Food Science Laboratory at Tech Farm, he’s learned plenty about how meat moves from farm to fork.
“It has been an awesome experience,” said Moore. “I believe it’s given me a greater respect and connection for the food I eat. I couldn’t have asked for a better job in college. My boss, Gorden Reger, is supportive of students in their academic endeavors, and my co-workers have become some of my closest friends. It has been a unique and rewarding experience.
“I would tell freshmen considering agricultural business to realize that there is much more to the degree than farming,” he said. “That is one aspect. But there is also a great need for people to serve agriculture in the finance, economics, marketing, and environmental service industries as well.
“For freshmen in general, I would tell them to keep strong academics but don’t let school become the only experience they ever have in college. Don’t be afraid to join clubs, meet new people, travel, or have fun.”
Moore will move to Oklahoma State University in Stillwater to get his graduate degree in Agricultural Economics, then pursue either a Ph.D. or a career in financial or business management consultation.
“I still haven’t found a career just yet,” he said, “but I certainly believe that Tech has enabled me with a great education and strong personal connections that will prepare me for a great career in whatever field I choose.”
And here’s the most important thing:
“One thing I have learned,” he said, “is that of all the natural resources we have available to us, people are the most valuable.”