Michigan State University junior Nicholas Prestly’s passion for agriculture began in the sixth grade when he got involved in 4-H and started raising sheep, pigs and rabbits. Later as a member of the National FFA Organization, he developed leadership skills that led him to choose agricultural education as his major when he enrolled at MSU.

Along with his love for animals and the land, the importance of education was instilled in him early.

“Although I’m the first person in my family to become a Spartan, education has always been a priority,” says Prestly, a member of the Honors College. “With both of my parents being involved in the school setting when I was younger, we were always academically driven. We were always taught that education is our base, and from there we could do anything that our hearts desire.”

At MSU, Prestly is known for bringing the same drive he has toward his studies to those around him.

“I put a lot of care into relationships that I have with everyone and am always willing to lend a hand or be there for someone.”