K-State Animal Science Students Place Second in Academic Quadrathlon

Manhattan, Kan. — The Kansas State University animal sciences academic quadrathlon team placed second at the Midwest section of the American Society of Animal Science meeting, held March 13-14 in Lincoln and Omaha, Nebraska.

K-State beat 19 other teams for the runner-up finish. Members of the team include:

  • Chance Kopsa, Beloit, Kan.
  • Scotney Reichenberger, Wichita.
  • Serena Schotanus, Tipton, Calif.
  • Jessica Smallfield, Jefferson City, Mo.

The team placed first in written exam and second in lab practicum and quiz bowl. Eleven Midwest universities competed.

In the local competition Feb. 21-24, 20 teams and 80 students participated in four events: laboratory practicum, written exam, oral presentation and quiz bowl.

In the laboratory practicum, the teams solve hands-on problems involving such topics as animal management and care. Each station usually involves a species, such as beef or swine; or a disciplinary area, such as physiology or meats.

The written exam questions involve any area related to animal science concepts and principles. Each team worked on one exam, dividing the questions as they choose.

In the oral presentation, students choose from a list of current topics, such as ‘cultured meat,’ sustainability in animal agriculture, or use of gene editing. In the quiz bowl, questions include topics relating to animal agriculture.

Fourth & Pomeroy Associates of Clay Center has sponsored K-State’s academic quadrathlon team for 18 years, during which time more than 1,000 students have competed in the local quadrathlon.

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