We had the good fortune of connecting with Sarah Sprayberry and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sarah, what is the most important factor behind your success?
Passion. At the same time, it is the most simple and complex answer to my success. To be a leader in agriculture, I have had to break through the “good ole boys club” mentality that many agriculturists possess as well as prove myself that I am just as talented, skilled, and competent to be a leader in my field even though I have two X chromosomes. Getting into my PhD program was a battle in itself (and still is as I am racing into the finish line), but the long nights, the constant questioning of “why am I doing is?”, and the mental breakdowns that include me starfishing on the floor have all been overcome because of my passion. I have passion to educate our youth about agriculture and where their food comes from, I have passion to develop culturally responsive youth programming so that youth in agriculture can not only recognize diversity, but also become culturally competent through appreciating it. I have a deep-seated passion to build upon the nexus of agricultural literacy and nutrition education in marginalized communities so that we can not only create a more agriculturally literate society, but also develop a healthier one. Lastly, I have a passion to creatively engage people in the hard conversations about agricultural myths. I am able to accomplish this through my “Blooming Agvocate” brand on TikTok and Instagram.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Getting to where I am today was no easy feat for me. After graduating with my masters in Animal Science, I knew the next steps would be to continue with my academic journey by obtaining a doctoral degree. Did I expect the roller coaster of ride that was coming? Absolutely not. Am I blessed that it happened? A resounding yes! I don’t often share this part of my story with people as I have been embarrassed, worried about other people’s perceptions of me, and given myself sort of a scarlet letter for it. However, I think this is the best part of my story especially for people in academia as they are often portrayed through a perfectionist light. I started PhD program in Nutrition at another university with the hopes of bonding my love for agriculture and nutrition education; however, that dream came to a screeching halt 4 months into my PhD. Mental health depleted, withdrew from the university, and lost all hope in myself. I did a lot of soul searching and self development to then try again. I applied to the doctoral program that I am currently in. What happened? I got a big, fat rejection letter. It was a huge slap in the face. I had two men in that department tell me that I wasn’t capable of achieving a PhD, maybe I should look into other avenues. If there is one thing that you should no about me, is that you NEVER tell I can’t do something. Yeah, I was defeated when they told me that, but then I decided to let it fuel the fire! I started to take classes as a “non-degree seeking” student to show them that I was capable. I got a 4.0 then I started to build a rapport with extension education through helping with youth programs, running the social media for Texas Youth Livestock and Agriculture, and showing them what I was made of. I think the biggest takeaway I have had through all of this is that don’t ever let someone else tell you your worth. You decide that! If you are passionate about something, you will find way. Now it may not always be the conventional way, but it will be your way and that is what makes it so rewarding. It establishes you, your brand, and your story!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I live in College Station so favorite spots would be: – Chimys for a margarita
– Gate 12 for great food and it is located on the airport grounds so you get to watch the planes fly in. Great on football weekends
– Dixie Chicken is a dive bar, but also an iconic staple to College Station and the Aggies. You have to go meet the local rattlesnake
– Take them to an Aggie sporting event
– Downtown Bryan to walk around especially if it is First Friday

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I think the biggest credit goes to my family especially my mama. They have all had to witness the downfalls, the struggles, and the triumphs. I wouldn’t be standing where I am today without the comfort, support, and love of my family. Also, I have had several influencers in my field which are: Dr. Dooley, Dr. Dunn, and Lisa Whittlesey. These powerful ladies have all been “disruptors for good” as Chris Field mentions in his book.

Website: https://lifeaccordingtosarah.home.blog/ (this is a blog that documents my journey and battle with depression)

Instagram: @sayruhh_sprayburr @bloomingagvocate

Linkedin: sarah-sprayberry12

Other: TikTok–> Blooming Agvocate

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.