Not too many kids can say they were born and raised in the Middle Reach of the Russian River Valley. I’m so blessed and thankful to have been raised under an agricultural roof in Sonoma County, because I understood the importance of “farm to table” from a very young age. It’s not hard to figure out where your milk comes from living on a dairy farm, and my siblings and I learned the importance of humane animal treatment, and how to be a great steward of the land just from observing the farm practices. I’ve always understood that farmers work extra hard to ensure that food makes it onto your plate in the first place, and without agriculture everyone would be naked and hungry. I’m proud to say those core values have followed me into adulthood.

…without Agriculture everyone would be naked and hungry…  -Hannah Bucher

I became more interested and involved in agriculture by joining Healdsburg FFA in High School. This helped me realize I can make agriculture a career. I chose to enroll in Chico State for its amazing agriculture program. I joined the professional agricultural sorority at Chico State called Sigma Alpha, which has broadened my leadership and management skills and I’m very proud to be a professional young woman in agriculture. Additionally, Chico State’s University Farm is ranked number 1 for most diversified and productive college-run farms, and the professors within the hallways of the College of Ag on campus are phenomenal. From all of my accounting, economics, and finance classes you’d think I’d be just a regular business major, but Chico State offers electives such as food safety (HACCP), plant science, animal science, and core classes like agribusiness management, ag policy, and agribusiness marketing that makes this major truly unique and special.

The Agriculture Business major is a favorite for its versatility and flexibility. I can use and apply my major to the many agricultural facets within, and even outside the wine industry of Sonoma County. After I graduate in May, I hope to return home to Healdsburg and work for E & J Gallo and continue learning about wine and wine industry. Eventually I’d love to take over the family winery business and honor my parent’s hard work. I know there is a lot of opportunity for young agriculture graduates, and I can’t wait to experience it all!