Maryann Gudenkauf continues her families dairy farm
Maryann Gudenkauf, who grew up in Watertown, Wisconsin, is graduating this winter with a bachelor’s in agronomy and dairy science. In this Q&A, she talks about her involvement in student organizations and the hands-on experiences she gained throughout her undergraduate career. After graduation, Maryann plans to return to her family dairy farm as fourth generation farmer and to start as a Field Representative for Rolling Hills Dairy Producers Cooperative.
Why did you choose your major? What was the most interesting or the coolest thing you learned?
I chose to major in Dairy Science because I grew up on my family’s dairy farm. Having farmed my entire life, I often went through the motions without fully understanding the science behind our practices. Studying Dairy Science has given me a deeper appreciation for why we do what we do on the farm. One of the most interesting topics I learned about was the dairy cow’s mammary system and the biology behind milk production.
What student organizations, groups, and other activities were you involved in?
On campus I was involved in Badger Dairy Club, Collegiate Farm Bureau, Association of Women in Agriculture, and Badger Crops Club.
What are your future academic and/or career plans, short-term and long-term?
After graduation, I will be returning to my family’s dairy farm to continue as the fourth generation. In addition, I have accepted a position with Rolling Hills Dairy Producers Cooperative as a Field Representative in southeastern Wisconsin. In this role, I will work directly with producers to support and improve individual milk quality, helping ensure that we continue to provide a high-quality product for consumers.
What were the most valuable and/or meaningful experiences you had in CALS?
The most valuable experiences I had in CALS were the hands-on labs offered in many of the courses. As a very hands-on learner, this approach helped me truly understand and apply the material. I also appreciated the CALS graduate student mentoring program. I participated in this program during my sophomore year and found it extremely beneficial, both academically and professionally.
When you think about your time here as a student, what are you proud of?
I am most proud of the many opportunities I chose to pursue during my time in college. As a freshman, I was encouraged to use this time to discover what I did and did not enjoy, and I fully embraced that advice. I took on extra projects, helped plan events, accepted leadership roles, pursued travel opportunities, and embraced anything else that came my way. I rarely said no, and I am incredibly proud of the young professional I have become because of these experiences.
Do you have any advice you’d like to share with CALS students?
Take advantage of every opportunity you can. While attending and understanding your classes is important, many experiences outside the classroom offer even greater opportunities for personal and professional growth. I never regretted any of my decisions to step away from class in order to pursue an opportunity that helped me learn, grow, or expand my network.
What do you like most about being a CALS student?
The flexibility and support that the CALS faculty provide to their students.
If you had to eat one Babcock ice cream flavor for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough because it combines two desserts into one.
What’s your favorite thing about the city of Madison?
My favorite thing about Madison is the access to the water and the scenery surrounding it.