- Degree: Bachelor (Spring 2022)
- Advisor: Mr. Lee Ivy
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sami-nickerson-10022817b
What was your degree(s) or focus?
Horticulture Production Systems and Entrepreneurship
Minor in Plant Biology
How are you planning to use your degree?
I hope to own my own nursery/plant shop one day, but as of now I will be working in the wholesale nursery industry in sales.
Whom do you want to thank?
I would like to thank my parents, Julie & Russell Nickerson, for putting me through university and for their unwavering support during any situation throughout all these years. Even though they live almost 1,000mi away they were always there for me whether it be a phone call or facetime through tears or laughter. No matter what my parents always made sure I was taken care of.
I would also like to thank my advisor, Lee Ivy, he made sure I was on track to graduate and did his best to resolve any problems that arose with my classes. I am glad he was there to guide my journey and I could not have asked for a better person to do that for me. Other faculty members, including Helen Kraus and Isaac Lewis played a significant role in helping me through the years. They along with many others helped push me through school until the very end, without their support I would not be getting this degree or have the passion that I do for plants. I am so grateful for everyone that I’ve crossed paths with in this program that have helped me in any way they could.
What is the best thing about studying horticulture at NC State?
The best thing about horticulture at NC State is the community, I felt like we were all a tight nit group of people with similar interests that enjoyed learning. The professors are all really enthusiastic about what was being taught and are all so knowledgeable, I have learned so much from them.
Do you have plans for after graduation? Are you currently working?
My plans for after graduation are to continue working at Pender Nursery and to continue to build my plant knowledge and relationships within the industry. This industry is so welcoming, and I am so glad that this is the path I chose, I cannot wait to keep exploring this field.
Advisor Comments (Mr. Lee Ivy)
Sami is always a pleasure to meet with. She is honest, curious and intentional with her conversations. During our advising meetings and through email interchanges, she fully explains her needs and is a great listener when given advice. She has a very pleasant personality and has capitalized on those abilities in her career pursuits. I wish her the very best in her endeavors.
Advisor Comments (Dr. Helen Kraus)
Sami is a hard-working, motivated young lady who has accomplished much during her undergraduate time. She has worked full time at Pender Nursery while taking a full course load and maintaining excellent grades. That is working hard! She is also happy, smiling and always willing to lend a hand. Some day – she wants to start her own nursery. I am sure that she will make this happen. Good luck in the future Sami!