Adrianna Meyer stepped out of her comfort zone — and walked away with three degrees

Adrianna Meyer stepped out of her comfort zone — and walked away with three degrees

By Tracy Turner

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Adrianna Meyer’s journey to becoming a proud Buckeye wasn’t always a given. In fact, up until her junior year of high school, she had no intention of attending The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES).

But after a change of heart, Meyer applied to Ohio State ATI on the CFAES Wooster campus, and she never looked back.

Now, as a graduate this spring with associate degrees in community leadership, agribusiness, and agricultural communication, she reflects on how much Ohio State has shaped her both personally and professionally.

“Believe it or not, up until junior year of high school, I was bound and determined to not be a Buckeye,” Meyer shared during her graduation speech. “It was shocking to most, including myself, because I was deeply immersed in the Ohio 4-H program, where attending Ohio State seemed like a given.”

“But I finally got my head screwed on correctly and changed my decision, and when I got accepted to Ohio State ATI, I was ecstatic.”

Meyer’s transition to college came with its own set of challenges: moving away from home, adjusting to a new schedule, and living with roommates for the first time.

“when I got accepted to Ohio State ATI, I was ecstatic”Adrianna Meyer

“I’m sure most of you felt this way when you took that step,” she said. “But thanks to the welcoming faculty and staff at Ohio State, those nerves quickly dissipated. Ohio State is a place of community where everyone is welcomed and appreciated.”

For Meyer, Ohio State quickly became a place of growth, opportunity, and personal transformation. As she got more involved on campus, her passion for community service only deepened. She joined student organizations, including becoming an admissions ambassador, where she worked to spread her love for Ohio State by giving tours and recruiting prospective students.

Additionally, Meyer’s participation in the Agriculture Future of America organization took her to several states, expanding her knowledge and skills across the country.

“Ohio State has taught me to not just step outside of my comfort zone, but to expand it,” Meyer said. “There is no growth in the comfort zone and no comfort in the growth zone. This motto has guided me throughout college, as I attended events, met new people, and networked with potential employers and future colleagues.”

“Ohio State wants each of its students to succeed, but that success starts with you. You must be willing to grow as both an individual and a professional.”

As Meyer prepares for the next chapter of her career, she reflects on the broader meaning of being a Buckeye.

“Being a Buckeye is more than just cheering for football,” she said. “It’s working together with peers on projects and research that better our communities. It’s making mistakes to learn, it’s celebrating accomplishments, and it’s supporting those around you. Being a Buckeye means that you’re part of a special community, and that community will be with you long after graduation.”

Looking ahead, Meyer is excited for the future and is proud of all that she has accomplished.

“Whether you finish at Ohio State with an associate degree, a bachelor’s degree, or even pursue graduate school, you will always be a Buckeye with the utmost pride for The Ohio State University,” she said. “I wish you all the best of luck in your future endeavors, and I am thrilled to see where life takes us.”