Devin Cunningham

I want to achieve my Master’s Degree in a topic area of cattle reproduction and continue my education with a PhD in a related large animal science reproduction field. While working for Penn State Extension as a 4-H Educator I have developed several educational pieces on cattle reproduction, performed multiple reproductive dissections and recently awarded a national award for my reproductive programs by the National Association of Extension of 4-H Agents. Over the last few years I have taught as an Adjunct Professor at Delaware Valley University, where I discovered my passion for teaching undergraduates. Hopefully after many years in the animal industrial research I can retire as a tenured faculty member teaching animal sciences at a well-known university. I have worked hard to gain the ground I stand on today in the industry through long hours, extra effort and taking on the unwanted tasks. I believe that I will excel in graduate work since I am determined to make a difference in today’s agriculture. I have faced many different obstacles but still am thirsty for more knowledge in animal sciences. With each passing year I have begun to realize that agriculture production is an international market. I have studied agricultural production abroad in Ireland and Poland and found it fascinating to compare food production systems to those we have to the United States. This was an eye opening experience that made me realize that there is a need for international agriculture development. I was able to see the contrasts in genetics, equipment, husbandry and overall efficiency that could be improved by adopting modern practices. Due to advancements in transportation and communication, agriculture is no longer a local but a global community. Food, especially meat, is being exported across the nation but overseas too. There is a huge demand for employment in these international trades, food inspections and consumer safety. It is my generation’s duty to secure the future of food production as the global population continues to grow exponentially and natural resources are limited. My career goal is to become well educated within the large animal science reproductive field to go into research for the industry. I am passionate about making an improvement in modern day agricultural production through reproductive efficiency and health.