The Clemson University Beef Show Team has been reinstated, offering a new group of student ambassadors and providing hands-on opportunities for student success.
Nine students are part of the team, which restarted this semester after several years of being inactive. The team operates within the university’s Block and Bridle Club. Victoria Mueller, a senior animal and veterinary sciences major from Hanahan, South Carolina, who founded the team and is now team co-chair, said the team was reinstated in alignment with Clemson ELEVATE, a 12-year initiative aimed at delivering the top student experience through experiential learning.
“The purpose of the team is to provide unique, hands-on opportunities to students who may or may not have prior cattle experience,” Mueller said. “We aim to educate and bring awareness to the beef industry on campus and in the community.”
Clemson students benefit
Clemson Block and Bridle Club President Blake Smith said being part of the Beef Show Team is rewarding. Smith is from Lexington, South Carolina. He plans to attend veterinary school after graduating and appreciates the opportunity to work with animals he’s had little experience with.
“It means a great deal to get involved in something I didn’t know existed two years ago,” Smith said. “The community support and the hard work involved make it incredibly rewarding. The skills I’ve gained will definitely help me as a future veterinarian.”
Kenli Knox, a senior animal and veterinary sciences major from Greenville, South Carolina, said although she didn’t grow up showing livestock, being a member of the team has helped her learn valuable skills for working in the livestock industry.
“Being on the team can help set students apart when applying to competitive veterinary programs,” Knox said. “It’s been fun, and it has challenged me to think outside the box.”
Elizabeth McCabe, a junior biological sciences major from Lexington, South Carolina, said being on the team is a great outlet and hobby.
“I get to represent Clemson, meet new people, and strengthen old friendships,” McCabe said. “The challenges of training, showing, and competing in livestock exhibitions have helped me develop life skills and build character.”
Blaine Noland, a junior animal and veterinary sciences major with an equine business concentration from Aynor, South Carolina, said team activities provide an escape from the stresses of college life.
“It’s allowed me to make friendships and work toward common goals,” Noland said. “I believe the connections I’m building will help me in the agricultural industry after graduation.”
Madeline Hunsinger, a junior animal and veterinary sciences major from Anderson, South Carolina, enjoys learning about cattle behavior.
“I’ve learned how important it is to pay attention to my cow’s movements and mannerisms,” Hunsinger said. “Experiencing these behaviors firsthand will stay with us for life.”
Isabella Vogler, team co-chair and a junior animal and veterinary sciences major from Farmington, Connecticut, who didn’t grow up around the agricultural industry has learned a lot by being a member of the team.
“Work involved with being on this team has become one of my favorite things to do,” Vogler said. “Working with my cow has opened my eyes to large-animal care. I’m excited for the show season and continuing to work with my cow.”
Chloe Margeson, a junior animal and veterinary sciences major from Simpsonville, South Carolina, said being on the team allows her to play a bigger role at the university and learn about the cattle industry.
“It’s a chance to connect with peers and industry professionals,” Margeson said. “It’s rewarding to see the community support the team as we start this new journey.”
Ava Plataroti, a sophomore animal and veterinary sciences major from Long Island, New York, works with her cow, Tofu, two or three days a week to prepare for upcoming shows.
“I want to work with animals and attend veterinary school after I graduate,” Plataroti said. “I’ve never shown livestock before, and it’s been a huge learning process, but it’s always worth the hard work.”
Students interested in joining the Clemson Beef Show Team can contact Victoria Mueller at vmuelle@g.clemson.edu, or Isabella Vogler at ivogler@clemson.edu for information.
