Q&A with Aubrey Lehmkuhl, chapter president
What are the goals and missions of the PAS Chapter?
The Professional Agricultural Student (PAS) Chapter at Iowa State University aims to fulfill the Iowa PAS motto, “Uniting Education and Industry in Agriculture.” We accomplish this through hosting monthly meetings, attending conferences and competing on a state and national level. As a club, we hope to provide a space for creating personal and professional connections, developing skills as leaders and learning more about agriculture.
When and where does the chapter meet?
Our chapter meets once a month. We typically meet on Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in 224 Curtiss. The best way to keep up-to-date on when and where our meetings are is to follow us on Instagram (isupaschapter) and get on our email list by going to https://www.stuorg.iastate.edu/2690 and clicking join on the upper menu.
What opportunities does the chapter have for students to get involved? Leadership?
PAS has many opportunities for student involvement and leadership! The biggest opportunity we have is the chance to compete in individual and team competitions at the state and national level. These competitions focus on career and leadership development as well as a chance to demonstrate agricultural knowledge. By competing with PAS, students can meet other students from across Iowa and the United States, who all share a passion for agriculture!
Another leadership opportunity for students is to serve on our leadership team. Our club is currently on the smaller side, so many of our members are on the officer team, gaining great experience!
What are some chapter events, activities, or fundraisers?
Our main chapter activities include attending state and national PAS conferences. These conferences are where we get to compete against other colleges in agricultural and career development-based competitions. The state conference is usually held in February, and the national conference is held in March. Iowa PAS also holds a fall leadership conference that students can attend to learn more about agriculture with workshops and industry tours.
Who can join the chapter? Are there any requirements?
Any student at Iowa State is welcome to join the chapter! No previous background in agriculture is required.
What makes the PAS chapter fun and unique?
PAS is unique because it has so many opportunities for students of all majors and backgrounds to come together in one club. Additionally, students have the chance to compete in areas including agronomy, animal science, horticulture, agricultural business, agricultural education, public speaking, job interview, agricultural sales and so much more. Because of this, the PAS chapter at Iowa State is a fun place to make new friends and develop as a student and future professional.
Is there anything else you want to share about the PAS chapter?
PAS is a great opportunity for students to expand on and apply what they are learning in their classes. Also, PAS is a smaller club, so it can be less intimidating for students to join while still gaining great experience and connections!
Information compiled by Katrina Hageman