In a few short years, McKenzie Sweigart plans to pursue her dream working as a wildlife biologist. As a junior in Keystone College’s wildlife biology program, she’s off to an excellent start.

McKenzie recently received the American FFA Degree, the highest award given by the non-profit outdoor organization FFA (formerly known as Future Farmers of America). The honor is earned by a sparse 1% of FFA members across the country. She received the prestigious award at the organization’s national convention in Indianapolis, Ind. FFA is widely regarded as the premier youth organization preparing members for leadership and careers in the science, business and technology of agriculture and related outdoor careers.

“I was really honored to receive this award,” said Sweigart, a resident of Trout Run. “I’ve been a member of the FFA since I was in high school and this symbolizes all the hard work I have done over the last several years.”

A 2020 graduate of Wellsboro High School, McKenzie grew up loving nature and outdoor activities. She says coming to Keystone was an excellent choice.

Keystone’s wildlife biology program is nationally known for its excellent faculty and the college’s Woodlands Campus provides the perfect environment to enhance classroom learning. Wildlife biology graduates are grounded in the fundamentals of natural science and prepared to enter graduate programs in fields such as biology (ecology and evolution, genetics, etc.), environmental science and public health. Students are also prepared for careers in fields such as public policy, conservation and science education.

“I really enjoy studying wildlife biology at Keystone,” she said. “The faculty is really great and the college’s Woodlands Campus is especially helpful because of the abundance of fields, streams, and hiking trails. It’s great to study in classrooms and labs but having an outdoor laboratory right on campus is really tremendous.”

After graduating from Keystone, McKenzie is considering attending graduate school before entering the job market. Whatever she decides, she’ll be well-prepared for the for the future.