Arkansas Tech University student Rose Gunther is one of 10 college students from around the Natural State selected for a 2024-25 Farm Credit of Western Arkansas Scholarship.

Gunther, a junior from Bigelow, will use the $2,000 scholarship to continue her pursuit of a agriculture business degree from ATU. She holds membership in the ATU Presidential Leadership Cabinet and National Society for Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS).

“As an agriculture student at Arkansas Tech University, I’ve been impressed by two key strengths that have made a significant difference in my experience,” said Gunther. “The biggest strength is the student-to-teacher connections. By having smaller classroom sizes that allow the teacher to know each student, I feel more motivated and confident inside and outside the classroom. I have no problem answering during class or stepping up to help an organization because I feel valued as an individual rather than just a number in a crowd.

“The other strength,” continued Gunther, “is that professors understand student’s unique challenges and are willing to adapt to meet their needs. This flexibility has been especially helpful in balancing work and classes while pushing us to do our best. Overall, my experience with the agriculture program has been awesome, and I’m grateful for the opportunities now and in the future.”

According to a news release from Farm Credit of Western Arkansas, the scholarship program has awarded more than $400,000 to students since 1996. Recipients must demonstrate exemplary academic achievement, leadership, extracurricular involvement, volunteer activities and financial need.

To qualify, applicants must be full-time students at an accredited college, university or trade program for the 2024-25 academic year. They must also be the children and/or grandchildren of Farm Credit of Western Arkansas members or members themselves.

“Being recognized by Farm Credit of Western Arkansas with this scholarship is an honor,” said Gunther. “It’s not just financial support. It represents a validation of my hard work and potential. I was fortunate to receive this scholarship twice and appreciate that my small efforts and achievements are valued within the agriculture industry. It has also motivated me to continue striving for excellence in my academic and personal pursuits in hopes that my minor contributions will have a significant impact in the future. This scholarship not only eases my financial burden, but it inspires me to help my community and beyond, just as Farm Credit of Western Arkansas has done through its support.”

Learn more about the ATU agriculture program at www.atu.edu/agriculture.