polyculture
Student Perspectives from the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences
polyculture Student perspectives from the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences
A MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR Welcome to Cal Poly! We are delighted to have you here during one of Cal Poly’s oldest traditions: Open House. We hope you are able to explore the campus and San Luis Obispo area and learn what Cal Poly has to offer you. I hope this magazine helps you learn more about what makes Cal Poly so special. In this magazine, you will get to look into each department of the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences (CAFES). All our departments are unique and offer their students the best Learn by Doing experiences possible.You will also find stories highlighting the past and current success of CAFES. While this magazine is full of information, you are encouraged to ask questions and discover even more about what makes your department unique. My time at Cal Poly has been full of great memories, experiences and friendships. I hope you too come to love Cal Poly and San Luis Obispo as much as I have these past four years. The school will provide you with endless opportunities that will help you to grow and be successful in your prospective field. The committee and I have loved putting this magazine together for you. We hope you enjoy your visit to Cal Poly and decide this is the place for you. The Cal Poly College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences welcomes you to our campus!
Carrie Isaacson
The contents of Polyculture are genterated by students, and do not reflect the opinions of California Polytechnic State University, its administration or faculty.
contents
4 Letter from the Dean 6 Agricultural Business 8 Agricultural Education and Communication 10 Animal Science 12 BioResource and Agricultural Engineering 13 Tractor Pull 14 Dairy Science 16 Food Science and Nutrition 17 Disney New Product Development 18 Horticulture and Crop Science 19 Tomato Mania Enterprise 20 Military Science 21 Brock Center History 24 Natural Resources Management & Environmental Sciences 26 Recreation, Parks and Tourism Administration 27 The Rose Float Tradition 28 Open House History 30 Cal Poly Enterprise Projects 32 Fremont Hall 33 Studying Abroad 34 Organizations, Clubs and Competitive Teams
STAFF Editor- Carrie Isaacson Graphic Designer- David Jones Ad Sales- Christine Woodman Writers- Alex Beeler, Lori Brown, Peter Delle, Carrie Isaacson, Jennifer Ray,
Aimee Shaner
OPEN HOUSE COMMITTEE
Co-Captains- Kelly Pipkin, Marissa Silva BBQ- Joseph Alexandre, Chandler Wilson, Mitchell Yerxa Parents- Kristen Jones Pavilion- Jordan Albiani, Natalie Baldwin, Katelyn Montague Publicity- Carrie Isaacson Students- Andrew Sherman, Jessica Weber
a message from the Dean
Dear Prospective Students, Welcome to the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences. During your visit to Cal Poly, I hope that you will make the most of this opportunity to experience first-hand all that our university has to offer – the beautiful university and surrounding area, our diverse college and the specialized department and program in which you are interested. Speak with our expert staff and meet our students to ensure that all of your questions are answered. During your time here, I hope that you will determine that Cal Poly is the place for you. There are two crucial advantages that you will gain from a Cal Poly degree. First, at Cal Poly you will be immersed in our Learn by Doing tradition of education. From the day you arrive, you will participate in many hands-on laboratories, and have access to field trips, clubs and enterprise activities. Your education will be enriched by applied research opportunities that undergraduates at other universities simply don’t have. In the end, you will be well prepared for success in the workplace. Second, our faculty are involved with our students both inside and outside the classroom. They advise clubs, work directly with students on special problems and senior projects, connect students with industry for internship opportunities around the world and get to know our students by name. Students prove year after year that when they can develop a relationship with a faculty member, they are more likely to graduate as innovative leaders, better prepared for real-world challenges. In short, our students achieve success. There are countless reasons to join us at Cal Poly. So get a taste of life here in the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences. Make the most of your visit, and I hope to see you as a Cal Poly student in the future. Thank you,
Dave Wehner
Dave Wehner, Ph.D. Dean, Cal Poly College of Agriculture, Food & Environmental Sciences www.cafes.calpoly.edu
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A H P L A SIGMA rity Professional Agricultural Soro
WO M E N E XCE L L IN G IN A G R IC U LT U R E The objective of Sigm a Alpha shall be to pr omote its members in all fa cets of agriculture an d to strengthen the bond s of friendship amon g them. It is the purpose of th e members to strive for achievement in scho larship, leadership, an d service, and to furthe r the development of excellence in women pursuing careers in agriculture. CO N TACT S: H TT P: // W W W.FAC
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agricultural business
what we do
Cal Poly agribusiness students gain real-world experiences to address agribusiness opportunities and problems through participation in international experiences, internships, field trips and club activities.
clubs
Agricultural Business Management Club/National Agricultural Marketers Association
majors
Agricultural Business
minors
Agribusiness, Wine and Viticulture
online:
agb.calpoly.edu f a c e b o o k : Cal Poly AGB Dept News
Meet Bryce Potter, current Agricultural Business student What do you love about your major? I love the hands-on experience we gain throughout our learning. All of the professors do an amazing job helping the students throughout their educational careers and preparing the students for the real world. 6
Agriculture Business Management/ National Agri-Marketing Association
Ag Showcase Produce Marketing Association Pack Family Scholarship NAMA St�dent Marketing Competition Indust�� Leader Guest Speakers Open House Par�icipant Volunteer work in SLO communit� ABM Ad
2012 NAMA Team Mission: The goal as a club is to bring together st�dents interested in an Ag�ibusiness Career and ex�ose them to the different aspects of the ag�ibusiness indust��. ABM/NAMA sponsors educational and social activities for their members as well as interested st�dents.
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agricultural education and communication
what we do
Our department contributes to the improvement of agricultural instruction and prepares agricultural communicators who will promote agriculture and serve the needs of the industry.
clubs
Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow, Alpha Tau Alpha, Collegiate FFA, Latinos in Agriculture
majors
Agricultural Science, Agricultural Communication
minors
Agricultural Communication
online:
aged.calpoly.edu
f a c e b o o k : Cal Poly SLO- Agricultural Education & Communication Dept.
Meet Katie Veenstra, current Agricultural Communication student
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What Does Learn by Doing Mean to You? There is so much to be said for an education where you get to go outside the classroom walls and apply the things you’ve learned. I’ve been able to vaccinate chickens, harvest oranges and go to Sacramento to give a presentation on issues affecting California agriculture. I honestly believe that Cal Poly’s Learn by Doing motto is what makes Cal Poly the wonderful university that it is.
CFFA 1/2, ACT 1/2
agri{culture} not just a word, a way of life. Help spread the message.
Become a member of the Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow 9
animal science
what we do
Almost half of Cal Poly animal science alumni go on to veterinary school or graduate schools. Graduates are sought after by companies like Cargill, Mars, Inc., Eli Lilly, Pfizer and Bayer. Learn by Doing isn’t just a motto in the Animal Science department. Students gain real-world experience through class laboratories and more than 20 enterprise projects.
clubs Vet Science Club, Zoo and Exotic Animals Club,Young Cattlemen’s Club
areas of study
Pre-Veterinary Medicine, Biotechnology, Food Animal Production, Animal Biology Studies, Equine Science, Poultry Management, Range Resource Management, Meat Science
facilities
Animal Nutrition Center, Beef Center, Beef Cattle Evaluation Center, Parker Barn, Biotechnology Labs, Equine Center, Meat Processing Center, Poultry Center, Sheep Center, Swine Center, Veterinary Clinic.
ranches
Peterson and Serrano Ranches, Escuela and Walters Ranches, Chorro Creek Ranch, Swanton Pacific Ranch
Meet Marissa Silva, current Animal Science student What has been your favorite Cal Poly memory?
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During a work-day at Swanton Pacific Ranch a group of us were moving cattle. As we were moving them down the crest of the hill toward the ocean, someone shouted and gestured ahead of us. A whale was breeching just off the coast. This spectacular sight, all the while working cows on horseback, made me so thankful to be studying with Animal Science at Cal Poly.
bioresource and agricultural engineering
what we do
From day one students in the BioResource and Agricultural Engineering department have laboratory-intensive, Learn by Doing classes. Through practical design and problem solving experiences, our students receive the skills, tools and the opportunity to build what they design.
clubs Agricultural Engineering Society, American Society of Agricultural & Biological Engineers, Student Mechanized Branch, Tractor Pull
majors
Agricultural Systems Management, BioResource & Agricultural Engineering
minors
Geographic Information Systems, Water Science
graduate programs
M.S. Water Engineering, M.S. Agriculture, Specialization in Irrigation, M.S. Agriculture, Specialization in Ag Engineering Technology
online:
brae.calpoly.edu
facebook:
BioResource AgEngineering
Meet Chase Brodt, current Agricultural Systems Management student What do you love about your major?
The best thing about being an ASM major has to be all the hands-on experience you get outside the classroom. 12
the cal poly tractor pull One of the biggest and loudest events on Cal Poly’s campus is the Cal Poly Truck and Tractor Pull. Cal Poly students have been busy preparing for this event all year. It is our job to make sure the tickets are sold, competitors are entered, sponsorships are received, food is provided, everything is prepared and, most importantly, that everyone in
attendance has a great time! The Cal Poly Tractor Pull Club meets on Tuesday evenings to plan and organize the event. Saturday work-days are a must in preparation for the Cal Poly Truck and Tractor Pull. Students involved get hands-on experience with the two Cal Poly pull tractors, Mustang Fever and Poly Thunder, as well as learning what it is
like to put on an amazing event! The Cal Poly Tractor Pull began in 1972 and has been going strong ever since. We can’t thank the community enough for their support and we are looking forward to seeing all of you at the Truck and Tractor Pull on Saturday April 14th! Any questions please email cptractorpull@yahoo.com.
dairy science
what we do
Cal Poly is the only West Coast university to offer a specific Dairy Science major, and it is the largest dairy science program in the United States. Graduates are prepared for careers in teaching, veterinary medicine, agribusiness, public relations, management, dairy husbandry and dairy products technology.
clubs
Los Lecheros Dairy Club
majors Dairy Science
minors Dairy Science
advisor approved electives:
Dairy Management, Dairy Products Technology, Dairy Production (Pre-Graduate), Ag Communications, Pre-Veterinary, Dairy Products Technology (Pre-Graduate), Dairy Industry, Agricultural Education
online:
dsci.calpoly.edu
facebook:
Cal Poly Dairy
Meet James Weber, current Dairy Science student What does Learn by Doing mean to you?
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Learn by Doing means we don’t just sit in a classroom and absorb information. Learn by Doing translates into direct application of what we’ve learned by expanding the classroom. This is just one way we get to search for new and innovative industry methods through direct experimentation.
Learn. Grow. Network. Cal Poly
L O S
L E C H E R O S
Dairy Club
food science and nutrition
what we do
Cal Poly’s Learn by Doing philosophy sets our students apart from other food science and nutrition programs. From the development of new foods to the study of how foods impact health, wellness and disease prevention, our students are prepared to enter the industry.
clubs
Careers in Culinary Club, Food Science Club, Nutrition Club, Fair Trade Club
majors
Food Science, Nutrition
facilities
Pilot Plant, Sensory Lab, Kitchen, Quality Control Lab
online:
fsn.calpoly.edu
Meet Julie Uccelli, current Food Science and Nutrition student
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What opportunities has CAFES given you? Cal Poly does a great job getting us in contact with industry. Each year, CAFES puts on Ag Showcase, a job fair just for agriculture students. This event has given me the opportunity to get in contact with food companies, look for jobs and get internships.
DISNEY NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT
A FAIRYTALE EXPERIENCE Story by Lori Brown
“Y
eah, I think we have a good shot this year,” said third year Food Science student Kathleen Phi. “[UC] Davis is usually pretty good, but I feel good about our product this year.” Phi is one of seven members of Cal Poly’s New Product Development team. This team of dedicated students will compete in the Disney-sponsored Institute of Food Technologists Student Association (IFTSA) Product Development competition. IFTSA is a professional organization of food science students from across the nation that provides competitions, awards, scholarships and networking opportunities for students. The goal of the Disney competition is to manufacture and pitch a market-relevant food or beverage, targeted at children ages 10 and younger. The product also has to incorporate a fruit, vegetable, low-fat dairy product or whole grain, and must include a Disney character. This year’s team developed Sweet
Potangled Pretzels, inspired by Disney’s recent Rapunzel movie, Tangled. The product is made using sweet potatoes. “The contest involves all levels of the food industry,” Phi said. “Students come up with the idea, develop the marketing, do cost analysis, project processing and make the actual product. One of the most fun aspects of the competition is it’s Disneythemed.” Food Science Department Head, Dr. Gour Choudhury, sees this competition as a great embodiment of the whole industry. “Food science is an applied science,” Choudhury said. “It combines food chemistry, microbiology, biotechnology and nutrition, and students must bring this all together in their field. This competition is very important. It teaches students real-life training, this is what they will be doing when they enter their jobs.’’ If the team is successful in the preliminary round, they will advance to
the finals held at the International Food Technologists (IFT) annual meeting this June in Las Vegas. If they advance to the finals, each team member will earn bragging rights, $1,000 and a paid trip to Las Vegas for the annual meeting. In addition to the knowledge gained, being involved in this team provides other great experiences. “It’s a great way to network,” Phi said. “I get the opportunity to attend conferences and expositions and meet people from the industry, and I get to know my peers better.” Dr. Choudhury also recognizes the value of students working together. “This competition requires teamwork,” Choudhury said. “It builds team players. That’s what you do in the real world; you work in teams. Sometimes teams work well together and sometimes they don’t. Our students on this team will learn the importance of teamwork.”
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horticulture & crop science
what we do
Our students don’t just sit in a classroom. They work outside in our fields and gardens and inside labs. They find solutions to real-world problems.
clubs
Crops Club, Horticultural Clubs, Pi Alpha Xi, Vines to Wines
majors
Agricultural & Environmental Plant Sciences, Wine and Viticulture
minors
Crop Science, Fruit Science, Landscape Horticulture, Ornamental Plant Production, Plant Production
facilities
Horticulture Unit, Crops Unit, Pilot Winery, Organic Farm, Plant Shop, Arboretum, Vineyard
online:
aeps.calpoly.edu
facebook:
Cal Poly AGB Dept News
Meet Erin Miller, current Horticulture and Crop Science student
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What has been your greatest achievement at Cal Poly? I am one of two Cal Poly students who was asked to work on a research project for the California Leafy Greens Research Board, which has been an amazing opportunity. I was also able to double my bowling score while in bowling class, which I am pretty proud of.
TOMATO MANIA A PROFITABLE STUDENT ENTERPRISE Story by Pam Learn
omato Mania. This event may be a T new term for some, but it’s an annual tradition for many. Cal Poly has held a
Tomato Mania event for the past 12 years, offering it as an enterprise project to horticulture students and a weekend of garden delight to the public. Students in the enterprise are in charge of the project from seed to sale. Choosing varieties, growing the young vines and marketing the plants is all part of the course description. This small group of students spends the entire winter quarter planning, troubleshooting and organizing the Tomato Mania event, which takes place in the spring. The enterprise team propagates the plants and sells the garden-ready tomato plants to the public. The event began with the original Cal Poly tomato, the Murray Smith. Named after a popular Cal Poly speech teacher, the Murray Smith was developed at Cal Poly and has always been a popular sell. This is likely because of its vivid color, small seeds and adaptation to California’s central coast climate. Often mislabeled as a vegetable, tomatoes have been considered America’s favorite garden fruit for generations. Tomato Mania attracts many garden enthusiasts featuring plants that are anything but ordinary. While traditional
heirloom tomatoes and other varieties can be found, many hybrid varieties ranging in color from purple to orange are available for purchase. These are not your normal grocery store varietals. Besides color, these varieties are known for their exquisite taste and texture. This year, students have chosen many new varieties and past customer favorites to sell. Early Girl, Red Zebra, Better Boy, Bloody Butcher, Black Krim and the Murray Smith are just a snapshot of the 75 different varieties for sale at this year’s event. “The average person buys about four or five [plants] because we have so many unique varieties and they want to try as many as they can,” said Jeffrey Hillman, Environmental Horticulture Science major and Tomato Mania enterprise project member. Tomatoes are sold for six dollars a plant and enterprise students are known to profit even after their expenses are paid. The strong community support for Cal Poly and the Tomato Mania following make for a great turnout at the sale. Tomato season begins in spring and carries through the summer months. This year, customers can support this unique enterprise on April 21, at the Poly Plant Shop on campus.
Love to write? Enjoy taking pictures? Like graphic design? Submit your work to Cal Poly’s student-run magazine,
agcircle.
Find us in Building 10, Room 234 or “friend” Ag Circle on Facebook!
military science
what we do
Our ROTC program is one of the most accomplished programs, having earned top marks in Physical Fitness and Land Navigation at the 2011 Leadership Development and Assessment Course at Ft. Lewis, Washington. Our Ranger Challenge team has earned top team honors for the last three years. We have approximately 40 contracted cadets in the program, with another 20 non-contracted student participants.
some of our activities
In the Fall and Spring quarters we conduct Field Training Exercises (FTX’s) at Camp San Luis Obispo. We have an annual Battalion “Dining Out” social event Winter quarter. And our cadets compete against other schools in the “Ranger Challenge” competition in November.
minor
Military Science
online:
www.calpoly.edu/~milsci/
Meet Eric Frizzie, current Military Science student What is your favorite thing about Cal Poly’s ROTC program? I’m training to serve my country. I believe there is nothing better than training to protect my country. 20
learn by communicating
A BRIEF HISTORY OF
THE BROCK CENTER FOR AGRICULTURAL COMMUNICATION Story by Peter Delle
For more than 24 years, Cal Poly’s Brock Center for Agricultural Communication has connected the agricultural industry, the media and the public. In 1986, the center began as a joint project between the Colleges of Agriculture and Liberal Arts with the ultimate goal of making agriculturalists better at fostering agricultural literacy. The Cal Poly success story in agricultural communications started with one man—Jim Brock. Brock had a solid foundation in the agricultural industry and a college education from Ventura Junior College, The University of Arizona and eventually Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. When Jim Brock attended Cal Poly in 1937, there were close to 400 students, four dorms, a student store and women were not enrolled. After college, Brock became an industry leader in western vegetable production. In fact, in the Cal Poly Today, published in the summer of 1983, it was said that Brock had become a pioneer in the California lettuce industry. Brock’s hands-on experience in production agriculture gave him a unique perspective of the relationships between agriculturalists and the public. In an early addition of Ag Circle, Brock described agriculture as the most misunderstood industry in the country. This view ultimately led Brock to grant Cal Poly a 1.5 million dollar trust fund for the creation of an agricultural communication center. In his memoires, In Fond Remembrance, Brock reflected upon his experiences with Cal Poly.
He said that his first visit to the campus sparked a life-long love affair with the school. This love affair, combined with his relationship with Tom Parks, his partner in a major vegetable production and shipping firm, whose family had previously donated substantial amounts to Cal Poly, led him to invest in future generations. The Brock Center originally began to train students with backgrounds in agriculture in the areas of journalism and broadcasting. Brock believed that the reason for agriculture’s misrepresentation in the media was everyone entering into media careers came from urban backgrounds. He believed that the issue was based in media ignorance, not bias. “Agriculture is unquestionably the biggest and most effective industry in the United States, but has the worst public relations,” Brock said. He also pointed out the vegetable industry in California created jobs, cities and railroads. When announcing the formation of the center, former Cal Poly President, Warren J. Baker, said, “We believe in the interest of Jim and Marty Brock, the long and favorable cooperation between Cal Poly and the industry, and the strength of our resources in both agriculture and communication place us in a unique position to provide a real service to the industry.” When the Brock Center was formed, its first director, Jim Hayes, outlined three major priorities. First, Hayes stressed a recruitment program to bring the best potential agriculture communications students to Cal Poly.
Hayes looked for excellent grades, writing ability, passion for the agricultural industry, involvement in FFA or 4-H and personal ties to agriculture as indicators of potential stars in the agricultural communications field. Hayes’ second priority was to bring the public’s and agriculturalist’s concerns together. His greatest concern in this area was food safety and how this is affected by agricultural practices. Hayes also raised concerns about the need for additional funding for the center. In response, Jim Brock outlined how Brock Center contributors, donations from the deans of both the Colleges of Agriculture and Liberal Arts and creative fundraising ideas would fund the center. Over the past 20 years, Cal Poly has connected students of both agricultural and urban background with careers advocating for agriculture. The Brock Center has embraced the Cal Poly motto—Learn by Doing—through the creation of agricultural publications and handson journalism experience. The Brock Center has proceeded on the principles established over 20 years ago by Brock and Hayes. The Brock Center has shifted from producing a small newspaper to producing an award-winning, agricultural magazine and has dove into agricultural advocacy efforts and social media campaigns. Brock Center students are equipped for careers in agricultural advocacy, government and journalism and are armed and prepared to make a difference in the industry.
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college of agriculture, food and environmental sciences
embrace hands-on learning.
NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT & ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
what we do
Graduates specialize in environmental assessment, impact analysis and management of natural resources, and are prepared for a broad range of professional careers in environmental science, forestry and natural resources management.
clubs
Association of Environmental Professionals, Earth, Soil and Water Conservation Clun, The Cal Poly Logging Team, The Cal Poly Student Chapter of the Society of American Foresters, Student Association for Fire Ecology, Soil Judging Team, Xi Sigma Pi
majors
Earth Sciences, Environmental Management and Protection, Forestry & Natural Resources, Soil Science
online:
nres.calpoly.edu
Meet Kelsey Cowin, current Environmental Management and Protection student
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What does Learn by Doing mean to you? Learn by Doing is the reason I came to Cal Poly. I feel that Cal Poly provides a completely different dimension to the college experience. At Cal Poly, it is not all about theory- we get the chance to get out in the field and try it for ourselves.
College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences
By The Numbers
19 majors
$370,000 in yearly scholarships
9,768 acres of land
3,740 students
10 departments
1 priceless education The Association of Environmental Professionals
AEP is a non-proďŹ t organization of professionals working to improve our skills as an environmental practitioners and natural resource managers. AEP is dedicated to the enhancement, maintenance and protection of the natural and human environment. If you are interested in getting involved, please email aep@calpoly.edu
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recreation, parks & tourism administration
what we do
Live it, protect it, explore it. The Recreation, Parks and Tourism Administration curriculum focuses on the development of students’ appreciation, knowledge, understanding and skills in leadership, planning and administration of park, recreation and tourism programs and services. Graduates have been hired by organizations such as the San Francisco Giants, Pebble Beach Resorts, the U.S. Forest Service and Costa Azul Adventure Resort.
clubs
Rho Phi Lambda, RPTA Club
majors Recreation, Parks and Tourism Administration
concentrations
Tourism Planning & Management, Outdoor, Adventure & Resource Recreation, Event Planning & Management, Community Services Management
online:
rpta.calpoly.edu
Meet Jackie Garcia, current RPTA student What do you love about the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences?
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I am really thankful for the staff in the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences. The professors are invested in their students and their students’ success. They provide a great support system.
Story by Carrie Isaacson
THE ROSE FLOAT TRADITION
J
anuary 1: A day full of resolutions and fresh starts. Traditionally, this day has also included some much needed couch time and college football. While this may be the status quo for most of us, the students responsible for the design, construction and decoration of the Cal Poly Rose Float had an entirely different New Year’s experience. Since 1949, students from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and Cal Poly, Pomona have worked year-round to produce award-winning floats for the traditional Rose Parade. Students spend 15 months working on a concept, designing, building and decorating the float. The San Luis Obispo design team meets with the Pomona team four times during the early spring to finalize design and divide up responsibilities. After the design is finalized in March, the team gets to work building the pieces and obtaining the flowers that will decorate the float. Students are also responsible for securing all the flowers, seeds and rice they will need for decorating the float. This year’s float, titled “To The Rescue,” used only California flowers, and was one of only two floats in the parade to do so. The students worked closely with the California Cut Flower Commission to ensure all flowers on the float were California grown. Both Pomona and San Luis Obispo teams have their own flower fields, which provide some of the flowers, but certainly not enough to decorate the entire float. “At one time we were able to grow all the
flowers we would need,” said Kathryn Bohn, the student program coordinator for the Rose Float. “The scope of the float evolved and became much larger, so it was no longer an option to grow our own flowers.” Cal Poly doesn’t just participate in the Rose Parade—they win at the Rose Parade. For the past four years, the Cal Poly float has won the Viewer’s Choice award, something no other float has accomplished. “The joke is that if we win it a fifth year, we’ll get kicked out of the category and they’ll rename the award after us,” said Jessica Brough, design team member. Winning the Viewer’s Choice award has helped to ensure a Cal Poly float is in the parade each year. The Rose Parade Committee must invite each float each year and there are no real guarantees. Invitations are given sometime in January, toward the end of the month, which has caused Cal Poly to sweat a few times. “There have been years when we weren’t sure we would be invited,” Bohn said. Even with all the worry, Cal Poly has been in the Rose Float for the past 63 years. The students at both campuses work on the float year-round, but everything kicks into high gear during December. After the San Luis Obispo portion is transported to Pomona at the end of October, construction begins. Around mid-December, the design crew begins to wrap up all the details before the flowers are added. Starting December 26, the decoration process
becomes a 24-hour-a-day operation, based at the Pomona campus. Flower decoration takes place from seven in the morning until midnight, only stopping so the construction team can come in from midnight to seven in the morning to finish up the structure. This grueling schedule continues until noon on December 31, when judging takes place. The float must also be taken from the Pomona campus to Pasadena. The usual 30-minute drive takes upwards of six hours, since driving at normal freeway speeds would cause the float to fall apart. Even with all the work and stress, the students love every moment. “It’s chaotic, we’re panicking, but it always ends well,” Bohn said. Program Coordinator, Nicolas Hellewell, finds it most satisfying when he sees the float drive past the TV cameras before millions of people. “When you see that float and you realize that it was built by a group of volunteer college students, and they are successfully competing against professional float builders and earning awards, that is something special,” Hellewell said. The Rose Float team is always looking for volunteers and new ideas. If you want to be a part of this tradition, stop by the Rose Float Office, located on the first floor of the University Union.
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Livestock Show -1954
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Calf Roping Larr
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Poly Royal Tractor Pu ll
-1970’s
Farm Machinery Exhibit -1939
OPEN HOUSE
THE HISTORY OF ONE OF CAL POLY’S OLDEST TRADITIONS Story by Jennifer Ray Open House is one of the most notable of Cal Poly traditions. Known to many as Poly Royal, this annual event celebrates Learn by Doing and the bond between the university and its community. Poly Royal is an integral part of the Cal Poly legacy and has played a pivotal role in the growth of the university, especially for the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences. The roots of Poly Royal date back to the birth of Cal Poly and began as an event called the Farmers’ Institute and Basket Picnic. In 1904, Cal Poly welcomed 200 visitors for its first campus showcase picnic, forging a new tradition. This annual event quickly gained popularity among students and community members alike. A 1908 Biennial Report noted the Farmers’ Institute was “an opportunity for ‘extension work’ in agricultural education among the residents of a large community.” By 1913 the event had grown to accommodate more than 3,000 people. The ritual faded away in the 1920s only to return in the 1930s with a new name. The first annual Poly Royal was held March 31, 1933. The event was referred to as the “Poly Royal Agriculture Show.” Highlights of the event included a livestock parade, horticulture judging, shop tours, a baseball game, barbeque lunch and a dance. Following the success of the first event, the second annual Poly Royal became a two-day celebration. The attractions and events expand-
ed over the years to include new activities like cow-milking contests, nail-driving competitions and milk can rolls. The Poly Royal Rodeo began in 1940, before the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) had even formed, making it the longestrunning collegiate rodeo in the United States. The Poly Royal Rodeo currently hosts nine events: saddle bronc riding, bareback riding, tie down roping, steer wrestling, bull riding, team roping, barrel racing, goat tying and breakaway roping. The 1944 Poly Royal celebration was trimmed to one day and the 1945 event was cancelled altogether as the nation focused its resources on World War Two. After the end of the war, Poly Royal returned with a full program in 1948. Poly Royal flourished and evolved with the campus. Exhibits were adapted to fit the everchanging curriculum. Student organizations began to use the weekend as a fundraiser and sold souvenirs and food. The Cal Poly Collegiate Future Farmers of America (CFFA) began selling commemorative Poly Royal buttons in 1958. The 1972 Poly Royal marked the birth of tractor pulling on the west coast. The Agricultural Engineering department (now the BioResource and Agricultural Engineering Department) hosted a demonstration for Poly Royal guests using farm tractors to show weight transfer, traction and horsepower. This event soon became competitive and students began
to build modified tractors. Cal Poly faculty and students developed the Cal Poly Tractor Pull Sled to test the new tractors. Today, the tractor pull is the most widely attended Open House event, attracting 4,000 spectators. A large, unruly crowd at the 1990 Poly Royal prompted President Warren Baker to reassess what had become a wildly popular event. The celebration was suspended until 1994, when it returned as Open House. Today, Open House is structured differently than it was in 1904 but remains closely tied to its roots. Friday is Admitted Students’ Preview Day and Saturday is a public showcase. Many traditional Cal Poly events remain, such as the Poly Royal Rodeo and the Tractor Pull. Although the annual event has seen many changes, the concept is the same. Cal Poly welcomes the community to come experience Learn by Doing at this annual celebration. “From my perspective, Open House is really an impressive event,” said President Jeffrey Armstrong. “The program is coordinated entirely by students, it highlights the academic innovations of students and features the campus’ 300 student run clubs and organizations. The whole campus community is engaged in a celebration that truly captures our Mustang spirit.” History recorded by University Archives and the Cal Poly Rodeo and Tractor Pull teams.
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CAL POLY ENTERPRISE PROJECTS A DIFFERENT KIND OF LEARNING Story by Aimee Shaner
Cal Poly’s College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences (CAFES) is dedicated to offering its students the best Learn by Doing opportunities possible. One of the best examples of this dedication is through the Enterprise Program. Enterprises were designed to help students Learn by Doing and have remained vital to the College since their inception in 1929. Even though these projects were introduced more than 75 years ago, enterprises still remain current to the education of many students. Activities range from producing and selling chocolates to studying reptile husbandry. Any student, any year, from any major, can participate in an enterprise project. More than 40 different enterprises are offered each year and class credit can be earned for participation. The Animal Science, Dairy Science, Food Science and Nutrition, Horticulture and Crop science and Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences departments all offer enterprises. Most enterprises do not require any prior experience. Instead, students Learn by Doing and gain real world experience. Each enterprise is unique and helps students develop useful skills that are applicable to a variety of career interests. Enterprises prepare students to apply their knowledge and to succeed in life after graduation.
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“There is no other place in the country where students can get so much hands on experience,” said Mike Hall, Animal Science professor and manager of the Animal Science department’s Bull Test enterprise. Interested in enterprises? Hear from a Cal Poly alumna and a current student about their experiences with the program.
I learned while involved in various enterprise projects are what I value most today. None of the enterprises could survive if run by an individual, but only as a team, working toward a common goal. It is the problem-solving and communications skills that were gained while I was a student on these enterprise projects that help me most today.”
Alumna
Current Student
Lauren Scheller graduated from Cal Poly in 2007 with a degree in Animal Science. She participated in the Bull Test, Escuela Ranch and Swanton Ranch stocker cattle enterprises. Lauren grew up on a beef cattle ranch and went on to work in consumer marketing and public relations for the Arizona Beef Council after graduation. She got involved with enterprises because of the hands on experience they offered and the opportunity to work more with Cal Poly’s highly qualified professors. Lauren loved having the hands-on experience and real life applications, but what she felt was the most important skill she took with her was communication and teamwork. “Cal Poly’s hands-on, Learn by Doing approach to teaching students is invaluable, no matter the enterprise in which one is involved,” said Lauren. “Additionally, and most importantly, the communication and teamwork skills that
“I’d have to say that the Cal Poly enterprises are truly the best at Learn by Doing,” said Juliana Gomes, a third year Animal Science major. Juliana has always had a love for horses, which led her to participate in several equine focused enterprises. Over the past three years, Juliana has participated in the foaling, nutrition and Thoroughbred enterprises. Juliana truly believes that her time spent in enterprises has strengthened her love for the equine industry and the experiences have been eye-opening. “I’d thoroughly encourage any Cal Poly student to get involved in an enterprise,” Juliana said. Even working midnight to six in the morning foaling shifts didn’t stop her from seeing the value in the experience and knowing she couldn’t have these experiences anywhere else.
build your enterprise. Artificial Insemination-Beef Bees (Honey) Broiler Bull Test Reproduction Bull Test Calving Cattle Fitting Cal Poly Chocolates Dairy Cattle Husbandry Dairy Manufacturing/Marketing Equine Breeding Equine Judging Team Equine Nutrition Research Escuela Cow-Calf Fire Wood Sales Foaling Forages Fruit Trees Lambing Mare Care Meat Processing Organic Farming Organic Vegetables and Fruit Poinsettia Quail Quarter Horse Reptile Husbandry Swanton Pacific Stocker Swanton Pacific Natural Beef Marketing Swine Management Thoroughbred Tomato Mania Vegetables Vet Clinic Wine Grapes
The College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences provides money or resources, students provide labor in design, production, packaging and marketing under the supervision of faculty. Net proceeds from Enterprise Projects go to pay the students involved and can be re-invested in the project.
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freshman agriculture dorm
FREMONT HALL Story by Peter Delle
Stress levels are usually high during a student’s first year of college. New places, new people and difficult courses can be found in excess. At Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo this stress load can be lessened for freshman Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences (CAFES) students through the housing option of Fremont Hall. Fremont Hall is part of the Cal Poly Living Learning Program- a series of six red brick dorms connected to one of the six colleges on Cal Poly’s campus. Fremont Hall is connected to the CAFES and is full of students from all majors in the College. Anthonia Edgren, who is currently serving in her second year as a Fremont Hall Resident Advisor, believes that this connection to CAFES greatly benefits Fremont residents. As a Recreation, Parks and Tourism Administration major from San Diego, Edgren also said that her eyes were opened to the agricultural industry and community when she joined Fremont Hall. “Fremont residents are a different kind of people, they’re a different breed,” said Edgren. “They’re hard working and passionate about 32
what they do. I love the people who live in Fremont.” The level of community in Fremont Hall sets itself apart from other housing options on campus. Taig McNulty, a freshman agricultural business student, decided to live in Fremont because he enjoys the agricultural lifestyle. Living with other students from your college helps first-year students to make friends throughout their entire college, not just their specific major. Academics are also an area of high importance in Fremont. Edgren believes that the academic performance of Fremont residences is positively influenced by common agricultural interests and majors. She said that students in Fremont use each other as resources both when studying for difficult courses and for accountability in attending class. Fremont Hall is also connected to the San Luis Obispo community. Fremont Hall is a partner with the Friends of the San Luis Obispo Botanical Gardens, a non-profit organization whose mission is to display diverse plant life and to provide education, recreation,
conservation and research opportunities. Encouraging students to participate in both the campus and San Luis Obispo community helps them get more in involved, which helps make the transition to college easier. Many former residents of Fremont Hall still share their fond memories of the red brick dorm. “I met my best friends in Fremont,” said Carrie Isaacson, an agricultural communications senior. “Freshmen year, it seemed like every class had a friendly face from the dorm. While we are all here for an education, there was never a dull moment in Fremont.” Fremont Hall is a great community to spend your first year at Cal Poly. The agricultural community is always present, whether at academic or social events. The support the dorm provides helps make the transition to college life easier and encourages students to get involved with more than just their schoolwork.
STUDY ABROAD, EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS FIRST-HAND ACCOUNTS FROM A CURRENT STUDENT AND A CAL POLY ALUMNA
Story by Carrie Isaacson
Erica Guido
We all know that studying abroad is a chance to enrich your life and experience something completely different, all while expanding your educational horizons. Many students in the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences are under the impression that if they were to study abroad, there would not be a program relating to their major and would therefore have problems gaining credit towards graduation. But Erica Guido, an agricultural education fourth year, figured out how to get solid agricultural experience and course credit while studying abroad. Erica spent the 2011 Fall quarter studying abroad at the University of Melbourne in Victoria, Australia. In addition to taking two general education courses, Erica had the opportunity to take a crop science class and a horticulture class, both areas of great interest to her. Erica was happy to find that the University of Melbourne had a Learn by Doing philosophy similar to Cal Poly’s. “The class I took was very intensive and included two-day trips and a three-day weekend trip to their agricultural facilities,” Erica said. “Like Cal Poly, the facilities are primarily student-run and provide a hands-on approach to learning.”
Erica also made many friends while abroad. During tours she formed relationships with people from around the world. One friend even invited her to stay at their family farm in New Zealand for a month after she finished her studies at the University of Melbourne. “I spent time milking the cows in their rotary shed and learned a lot about artificial insemination and embryo transplants,” Erica said. “The information I gathered that month and the fun I had was priceless.” Erica encourages anyone who might be thinking about studying abroad to pursue the opportunity as soon as they can. “Stop thinking about it, and JUST DO IT! It is by far the best thing I’ve ever experienced and would do it again in a heartbeat. It caused me to grow in innumerable ways and it is something I will NEVER forget!”
Megan Silcott
Cal Poly alumna, Megan Silcott, also experienced the wonders of studying abroad while spending the summer of 2007 in Valladolid, Spain. In addition to taking University classes and practicing her Spanish, Megan was able to tour the agricultural regions of Spain and experience a completely different culture. Megan says it truly was a culture shock
when she arrived in Spain, but that was a good challenge. She quickly learned that everyone actually does take a siesta in the middle of the afternoon and that getting coffee “to go” was simply not an option- you were expected to take a minute, sit down and enjoy. your surroundings. When walking home, it wasn’t uncommon to see dozens of people of all ages just strolling through the park, eating ice cream. On the weekends, Megan’s host family would take her all over the countryside to show what the region had to offer. Lucky for Megan, this included a lot of agricultural destinations. “The region was a lot like Paso Robles, because there were vineyards and hay fields everywhere,” Megan said. “Once I saw a tractor in a church parking lot!” Megan too encourages anyone interested to study abroad during college, because the experiences you can have are limitless. “It was probably the best out-of-comfortzone experience I could have ever had, while still remaining in a safe environment,” Megan said. For more information on study abroad opportunities, visit the Cal Poly International Education and Programs website, www.iep.calpoly.edu, or e-mail them at iep@calpoly.edu.
Agribusiness Management/National Agricultural Marketing Association Club (ABM/NAMA) Brings together students interested in an agribusiness career and exposes them to the different aspects of the agribusiness industry. ABM/NAMA sponsors educational and social activities for their members as well as interested students. Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow (ACT) A professional organization designed to promote development opportunities for students aspiring to promote agriculture through advocacy, industry relations, public policy and communications. Agricultural Engineering Society The goal of AES is to establish a fellowship among students and faculty in the BRAE department. AES activities include Thursday BBQ’s, club outings, a booth at Farm City Nights, Engineering Week and hosting the Ag Mechanics portion of the FFA State Finals. Agricultural Ambassadors Promotes higher education, agriculture and Cal Poly to prospective students. Alpha Tau Alpha (ATA) A national scholastic fraternity dedicated to promoting agricultural education and developing premier future agricultural educators. Membership is based on academics and agricultural awareness. Alpha Zeta Co-ed fraterinity which promotes education, fellowship, scholarship and character, as well as agriculture. Association of Environmental Professionalists (AEP) A group of students whose primary interest lies in the area of professional environmental services. This student group provides informational programs and projects for students interested in pursuing a career in the area of environmental services. Block and Bridle Club A great way to learn about livestock and agricultural activities through field trips, community service and hands-on experience.
Culinary Careers Club For students with an interest in food, cooking and media. The Food Media Club offers guest chefs, recipe testing, cultural demos, Iron Chef and holiday food events, writing for the quarterly newsletter and more. Collegiate Future Farmers of America A club dedicated to giving back to the National Future Farmers of America. This club is open to all majors and coordinates judging of local and regional career development events, community service activities and monthly meetings. Crops Club Crops Club is oriented towards serving all agricultural majors. The purpose of the Crops Club is to enhance personal and business relationships within the agriculture industry. Dairy Cattle Judging Team Evaluating the visual merit of breeding animals is an art that helps students develop communication skills and understand the visual aspects of dairy animals. Dairy Challenge Team This competitive team analyzes financial and production records of real dairies in California to hone their consulting skills. Dairy Products Judging Team Competing in regional and national competition, students learn to evaluate the qualities and technologies of dairy products processing. Dairy Quiz Bowl Team This is an academic team which competes each year at the annual American Dairy Science Association meeting. Dressage Team Competitive equine show team in the Intercollegiate Dressage Association. Earth, Soil and Water Conservation Club This club meets monthly to promote soil consciousness, proper soil management, and soil usage. Club members work to promote awareness and help students get involved in the industry. EHS Club EHS Club promotes horticulture though community service and campus activities.
Equestrian Team Competitive show team in hunter seat equitation, western pleasure and reining. Fair Trade Club The Fair Trade organization empowers farmers in developing countries by ensuring appropriate prices for their products. Sustainability and sound environmental practices are discussed. Food Science Club A club designed to help Food Science students network with industry professionals and find internships. Floral Design Club Affiliated with the National AIFD Organization, Floral Design Club sends students to help florists throughout the year. Members also attend design shows, assist designers and help with major floral events. Landscape Industry Club Affiliated student chapter of the California Landscape Contractors Association that provides students the opportunity to interact with professionals in the landscape industry through workshops, trade shows and oncampus presentations by representatives from the various facets of the landscape industry. Latinos in Agriculture (LIA) This club offers opportunities for students to develop their leadership skills. The many activities that focus on community service, academic and career development and social well-being, provide ample Learn by Doing experiences in leadership development. Livestock Judging Team Competitive judging team with practices and travelling for competitions throughout the country. Logging Team We are an intercollegiate team of men and women students who are interested in practicing traditional forestry field skills in a safe environment. Los Lecheros Dairy Club The purpose of Los Lecheros is to support the dairy industry through academic and social activities within the Dairy Science Department at Cal Poly.
Poultry Club The Poultry Club works to promote the poultry management minor through interactive participation with alumni and industry. Quarter Scale Tractor Team Student design and construction team that participates in the annual Quarter Scale Tractor ASABE National Student Design Competition. Recreation, Parks, & Tourism Administration Club The RPTA Club is an academically based club that provides career networking and social opportunities for students. The club offers a number of activities including sponsorship of professional speakers, career development and conference attendance support, social events and a department awards banquet. Rho Phi Lamda Rho Phi Lambda is a national organization that recognizes students and honorary professionals in our field for their excellence in academics, co-curricular and volunteer activities and contributions to our field. Rho Phi Lambda members are involved with community and campus service projects as well as academic and career enrichment events. Student Association for Fire Ecology SAFE brings together students from diverse backgrounds who share a common interest in fire ecology and related issues, as well as providing an excellent opportunity for students to network with fire science professionals. Student Branch of American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers The ASABE branch at Cal Poly is the local student organization of the professional society of ASABE. The goal of the organization is to connect BRAE students with practicing engineers and help students prepare for careers in engineering.
Student Mechanization Branch of ASAE The Student Mechanization Branch of ASAE works in cooperation with the American Society of Agricultural Engineers and is involved with public relations and social activities such as the World Ag Expo and Farm City Nights. Tractor Pull Club This club consists of an active membership of diverse students. Activities include weekly meetings, Saturday workdays and seeking sponsorship from businesses. These activities prepare for the PTPA-sanctioned Poly Royal Tractor Pull which we organize and host each year. Turf Club Affiliated student chapter of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America with the purpose to gather students interested in the turf-grass management concentration. Veterinary Science Club The Club provides opportunities for all interested in the field of veterinary medicine, through campus involvement, industry tours, and annual trips to colleges of veterinary medicine. Vines to Wines A viticulture/wine education and promotion organization.This club included three departments: Agriculture Business, Horticulture and Crop Science and Food Science and Nutrition. Xi Sigma Pi A national forestry/natural resources honor society. Students receive an invitation during Fall quarter to join based on scholastic achievement. The group sponsors several special events, such as the Distinguished Speaker Program and a community project. Young Cattlemen’s Club (YCC) An affiliate of California Cattlemen’s Association,Young Cattlemen’s allows students to get involved with the California beef industry and gain an understanding of industry issues.
College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences
Pi Alpha Xi National Honor Society for horticulture teachers, students and professionals.
Student Chapter of the Society of American Foresters The Cal Poly Student Chapter of the Society of American Foresters functions as a professional organization that strives to provide the latest forestry information and contacts for those students primarily interested in forestry or forestry related careers.
Clubs, Organizations and Competitive Teams
Nutrition Club The Nutrition club offers social, professional and community service opportunities to enhance student connections within the field of nutrition.
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