The REPS team in the AECT department is hard at work this semester. The REPS team, led by instructor Hanna Estes, serves as departmental ambassadors who assist with new and transfer student recruitment efforts.

     They have already hosted Canes & Games and have much more planned in the coming months for current and future students. The REPS team includes Cheyenne Britt, Ellis Freel, Emilee Block, Gracie Hewat, Madalyn Templeton, Madison Estepp and Noralee Townsend.

     "My favorite part of being a REP has to be getting to plan events for our department," Hewat said.

     She was attracted to the family-oriented community in the Bumpers College, and it allowed her to continue that tradition for current and future students.

     "Like most students, this year I enjoy getting to be in person with fellow classmates," Hewat said. "We are finally able to plan events and activities for our students, and I love seeing the connections and friendships being made."

     Estepp said the department has allowed her to continue her passion and love for agriculture by giving her opportunities to serve. She said her favorite part of being on the REPS team is connecting current students with incoming ones.

"I joined REPS because I love the AECT department," Estepp said. "I want to continue that tradition and being a REP for the department is a great way to do that!”

     Estepp is a sophomore who started college during the pandemic, so her experience will serve her well as she works with the REPS team to plan and execute activities for students in the department.

     "One thing I am looking forward to this year is being able to actually go to class and experience what being a college student actually is," Estepp said.

     Throughout this academic year, the REPS team will work to get students involved in the AECT department and bring back the family-oriented atmosphere that was found in the department before the pandemic changed our world.