In September 2024, Ramsie Tschappler began her freshman year at Missouri State University working with plants and hydroponic systems in the Karls Hall Greenhouse.

Now a junior, she started working as a laboratory assistant for Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) in January.

From studying dairy samples at DFA to harvesting herbs for Carrie’s Cafe, Tschappler has jumped at every opportunity sent her way.

“I want to explore several agricultural industries to see where I can make an impact and help people,” she said.

Planting the seed

Tschappler grew up on a 130-acre farm in Linn, Missouri, where her family rents 40 acres to farmers to grow crops. On the remaining land, her father practices conservation by restoring their

creek and planting trees to combat soil erosion. Her family also hunts deer to help maintain the population and prevent them from eating the farmers’ crops.

In high school, she fell in love with Future Farmers of America and joined several competitive teams. While competing on the sales team during her senior year, she discovered a love for agriculture communications.

“I thrive talking to people and learning how to build a sustainable future,” Tschappler said.

Her desire to explore more about the field of study brought her to the Darr College of Agriculture, where she is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in agricultural communications and natural resources management with a minor in agronomy.

During her first semester, Tschappler began working as a greenhouse assistant, caring for plants and managing environmental conditions. She also helped set up the hydroponic systems for the Bear Pantry on campus and grew microgreens for Carrie’s Cafe.

Although her time in the greenhouse ended in May 2025, she was eager to explore agriculture even more.

Branching out

Outside of the classroom, Tschappler joined Sigma Alpha, Collegiate Farm Bureau and Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow (ACT), taking on leadership roles in each.

In July 2025, she traveled to Norfolk, Virginia, for Sigma Alpha’s national convention, where she worked as a social media intern.

“I got to capture moments of women from different industries and colleges connecting over shared passions,” Tschappler said.

Collegiate Farm Bureau introduced her to agricultural advocacy and built her confidence. After being encouraged to participate in the Collegiate Discussion Meet, a speech-and-debate-style competition, her freshman year, she now helps younger members prepare for future competitions.

Through ACT, she has developed skills in photography, graphic design and social media.

Last year, Tschappler received the Double Down Cowan Scholarship from the Missouri Seedmen’s Association. The scholarship is awarded to outstanding agronomy students.

“It felt nice to be recognized,” she said.

Exploring new fields

Today, Tschappler continues to gain experience across agriculture.

As a social media manager for the Alumni Association and the Darr College of Agriculture, she promotes events, organizations and degree programs.

Off campus, she trades her BearWear for a lab coat at DFA. She prepares samples and manages cheese powders used in product development. Projects involve developing new flavors for retail brands. Tschappler also serves as an occasional “guinea pig taste tester,” comparing experimental flavors for food scientists.

Over the summer, she balanced 20 hours a week at DFA with another 20 at Missouri State’s Mountain Grove campus. There, she used knowledge from her plant science classes and DFA experience to harvest blackberries and strawberries and test their acidity and sugar content.

Although she enjoys her work at DFA, the Mountain Grove experience stands out.

“I get to talk with other agriculture students and contribute to conservation,” Tschappler said.

Still growing

As she prepares to graduate in December 2027, Tschappler is considering what comes next. She plans to pursue a master’s degree while continuing to explore careers in agriculture.

She encourages other students to step outside their comfort zones.

“If you have a sliver of interest, just try it out,” she said. “It’s OK to say no, but there’s a chance you might absolutely love it!

Find out more about agricultural communications