Sydney Webb

In her own words ...

Where are you from, and why did you choose to study at UGA/CAES?
I am from Mebane, North Carolina. I first heard of the UGA program from my undergraduate research advisor, but I chose to study at UGA because of the research and educational opportunities available to me. The people I met while touring my program and the university solidified that UGA would be the place for me.

What is your major/degree program, and what department?I am studying plant breeding and genetics in the Institute of Pland breeding, Genetics, and Genomics.
I am studying plant breeding and genetics in the Institute of Pland breeding, Genetics, and Genomics.

Why did you choose your major?
I grew up around various aspects of agriculture and found a love for science and research through school. Plant breeding is a way for me to combine these interests in a way that is exciting for me yet helpful to others around the world. 

What is your favorite class you have taken?
The PBGG plant breeding practicum course. Not only did we get to travel to each of UGA's three campuses, but I also got to learn more about the institute's breeding programs and areas of research outside my typical studies.

Who has been your favorite instructor?
Dr. Jasson Wallace

What has been the best experience you've had so far at CAES?
Getting to meet people from around the world and learn share new things about our cultures and experiences outside of UGA.

What do you want to do with what you have learned here?
Simply, I hope to find a job in the plant breeding industry to do research and development on improved crops. More importantly, I hope to use my future career, with the foundation I gained at UGA, as a way to help farmers in their fields and every person who consumes their food.

How has your experience at UGA changed you?
Until moving to Georgia, I had never lived more than an hour from where I grew up. Coming to UGA has shown me I am braver and more independent than I ever realized. It has also shown me that sometimes it takes being outside of my comfort zone to really learn new things, which I have done in many ways since coming to UGA!

Thinking of the word agriculture - what does agriculture mean to you? In what ways does agriculture impact your life and your culture?
Agriculture has always been a part of my life. Growing up on a family farm with others in our area, agriculture was a way for us to spend time together and connect with others. This connection through agriculture expands far beyond my family or community, it is a way to bring all people together. It provides us with many of our basic needs and gives us a reason to spend time outside doing something other than our routine daily tasks.

What do you like to do outside of class — hobbies, interests, secret talents?
I love crafting and quilting. I also enjoy reading a good (non-scientific!) book.