What is your story?

I grew up with a passion for agriculture and the beef industry. However, I hadn't quite found my niche. I came to UNL and soon realized the value in my network of peers, professors, and industry professionals. I joined the Nebraska Meat Judging team, completed an internship at a beef plant, and found what I want to do every day. I enjoy talking to people about where their food comes from and helping the agricultural industry better serve our consumers. The meat industry is a perfect fit for me because it allows me to work with both the producers and the consumers to produce a quality product. I hope to start my business, Clean Cut Beef, to provide consumers with an educational eating experience.

What is your business?

I currently operate Laura's Quality Hay: small square bales of alfalfa, prairie hay, and straw to serve rural communities and businesses. My business idea is Clean Cut Beef: a natural beef program from pasture to plate on my family's four generation farm in central Nebraska.

Who is your entrepreneurial inspiration OR biggest hero?

I am planning to enter an industry that is fairly male dominant. I am inspired by women who don't let that intimidate them and keep reaching for their goals. I am very blessed to have several women in my life who serve as inspirational role models.

If your story were made into a movie, what actor/actress would portray you and why?

I have a very take charge personality, so I think that Sandra Bullock would be a great fit. I love that she is independent, caring, and does whatever she sets her mind to do.

What advice would you give to a student starting their entrepreneurial journey?

Don't be afraid to step outside of what you know and experience something new. Just because you may have grown up doing something doesn't mean you can't be passionate about other things as well. I fell in love with an industry that I had no prior experience with before I came to college.