Kaleigh Backstrom

Agriculture is my passion. I have always loved animals and the farming way of life. Once graduating high school, I was unsure of what career path I wanted to follow. Over the past four and a half years, my career goals and interests have changed significantly. However, I have narrowed in on my passions and become more grounded in my decisions. I am currently pursuing a degree in Poultry Science Pre-Vet at Auburn University. I hope to graduate with my undergraduate degree in the spring or summer of 2024, and continue my education at Auburn’s veterinary school.

Food animal production is of great interest and importance to me. I grew up on an eight-house commercial broiler farm where hard work was never far away. My love of animals, and my participation in 4-H kindled a fire within me for the agriculture industry. This fire led me, although quite indirectly, full circle back to agriculture and poultry for my college education. Chickens were never my favorite animal; however, I now find myself studying not only poultry but also hoping to become a poultry veterinarian. My career goals are not completely set in stone; however, I have decided on a path and intend to follow it as long as possible.

I love food animal production, and I understand the important role it plays in the food industry and economy of America. I am passionate about food animal production and seek to advocate for it as much as possible. I believe producing quality protein sources through care and medicinal practice are just one way I can serve my fellow man. I am readily involved with the Poultry Science and Block and Bridle Clubs at Auburn, where I serve in multiple facets and officer positions to lead and support my classmates as we study to become future leaders in food animal production industries.

Whether I get into vet school or enter the workforce, I hope to remain closely connected with food animal agriculture. Even if it comes back to having my own poultry farm to manage, I will do so gladly. I am passionate about food animal agriculture, and I hope to promote it with excellence in everything I do. This industry is where I belong, and I hope to serve it and my fellow man to the best of my ability while preserving the camaraderie and passion that I have always found within the industry!