Name: Katy Tunstill
Parents: Darrell and Sheri Tunstill
4-H Chapter: Elkins 4-H
4-H Advisor: Sheri Tunstill
How are you involved in agriculture?
I raise and show Angus cattle and meat goats, and right now, I am working to build my cattle and goat herds. I have been showing cattle since I was seven, but I have been going to shows with my family since I was three. I am also a member of the Washington County Livestock Club, the Arkansas Junior Cattlemen’s Association, the Arkansas Junior Angus Association and the National Junior Angus Association.
What's a typical day for you?
School days are a little different, but on Saturdays I head up to the barn with my dad. We wash and lead the steers and heifers, a then we go check the other cattle in the pastures around our house. When we get back, I usually work with the cattle some more before feeding them.
What are your future plans?
I want to go to NEO in Miami, Okla., for a year or two and then transfer to Oklahoma State to major in agricultural communications. Cassie Bacon and Haley Rieff, two of my friends who I have always showed cattle with, are majoring in ag communications, and I think what they are doing sounds cool. I have participated in the NJAA’s graphic design and creative writing contests and think that is what I would like to do in college.
Why is it important for youth to be involved in ag?
I have found agriculture to be a lot of fun. You get to travel and meet kids from other states. We have been to Iowa, Milwaukee, Kansas City, Louisville, Denver, Indianapolis and Tulsa showing cattle, and I have met new friends all along the way.
Agriculture teaches responsibility because you have to take care of your animals to be successful. It also offers a lot of scholarship opportunities so you can go to college.
What have you learned from your involvement in agriculture?
As I get older, I have been able to care for more and more animals at the same time, so agriculture is definitely teaching me to be more responsible. It has been hard work, but I really love it. I have also had the chance to participate in other activities such as beef cook-offs and public speaking contests because I am a member of agricultural organizations.
