Alum and faculty member Corey Owens’ passion is animal science and range management. In West Texas, where agriculture and ranching are a key part of the locale, it’s important to have leaders like Owens, who want to give students hands-on research experience.
Degree/Major: B.S. in Animal Science, 2005 and M.S. in Animal Science, 2007
Hometown: Big Lake
Current job: Senior Instructor/Research Associate, Department of Agriculture
Why did you choose to work at ASU?
The Angelo State Agriculture Department provided me with a multitude of opportunities to seek out potential careers and a great education. I was (and still am) very passionate about our department and want to help other students receive the same level of education and opportunities afforded to me. I enjoy teaching students and educating the next generation of agriculture leaders both in and outside the classroom.
“I enjoy teaching students and educating the next generation of agriculture leaders both in and outside the classroom.”
Where is your favorite place on campus and why?
The MIR Center/University Ranch. It’s where the rubber meets the road for an Ag major. Here, you get to apply the knowledge learned in the classroom in a real-world setting. Agriculture is the backbone of society and fewer and fewer people today appreciate that. At the MIR Center, we work to change that. I grew up on an 18,000 ranch just south of Barnhart so when I am able to get out on the ranch and do “ranch stuff”, there is no better place.
What has been one of your most memorable experiences since coming to ASU?
There have been numerous over the years, but the recurring one would have to be when you see a student grasp a concept or technique. When it finally hits and they are able to fully comprehend or perform the hands-on task you have been working on. I enjoy seeing the look on their face and the feeling of accomplishment never gets old.
What would you say to prospective students who are considering attending ASU?
The Ag Department at ASU offers hands-on learning experiences that cannot be duplicated in a classroom alone. Every university with a good Ag Department says that, but what truly sets the ASU Ag Department apart is the opportunities for internships and our ability to place students in successful careers when they graduate. If you are looking for a place to get a high-quality education at a moderate price and are serious about a career when you graduate, ASU is the place for you.
“The Ag Department at ASU offers hands-on learning experiences that cannot be duplicated in a classroom alone.”
