Graduate Student Spotlight: Grace Schuster

Meet Grace Schuster, a natural resource sciences doctoral student from Pickrell, Neb.
Meet Grace Schuster, a natural resource sciences doctoral student from Pickrell, Neb.

Hometown: Pickrell, Neb.

Major: Natural Resource Sciences

Anticipated Date of Graduation: May 2026

Why did you decide to come to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?

I completed my bachelor's degree at the University of Nebraska and came to appreciate the community. Everyone here has such a unique story and there is so much to experience while you are working towards higher education.

What is your favorite thing about the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?

My favorite thing about the University of Nebraska is walking around East Campus when the trees are changing color during the fall.

What about diversity and inclusion is important to you when you think about your CASNR experience?

When I think about my CASNR experience, I think it has been so rewarding to have a diverse and inclusive environment because when tackling an issue, a multitude of interpretations can generate innovation and creativity.

Exposure to cultural differences is a huge part of college. What activity have you recently participated in that is different from what you are used to in your culture? This could be something you read, listened to, watched, eaten or otherwise taken part in. What did you learn from this activity?

Two summers ago, while completing my research at the West Central Research Station in North Platte, I lived with a few women from Rwanda. After sharing a few dinners together, I learned about their lives growing up and how they came to UNL. They taught me so much about their culture and even made me a few traditional dishes from their country. This was an experience that I will always cherish.

What is your favorite class you have taken so far and why?

One of my favorite courses was Grassland Ecology with Dr. Dan Uden. Grasslands are my favorite ecosystem to learn about and Dr. Uden enthusiastically taught me so much about the processes that take place within grasslands.

What are your plans for post-graduation?

My goal is to work with farmers to incorporate conservation into their production systems in order to reduce input costs and also support the environment for future generations.

What's life like outside of school?

My hobbies outside of school include going hiking, cooking or spending time with family and friends. I also love spending time with my cat, Remington.

What scholarships, if any, have you received?

I have most recently received the Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever Scholarship.

More details at: https://snr.unl.edu/gradstudent/meetourstudents-graduate.aspx