Making Life Better

Entomology Major

Entomology major Travis Dorsey prefers to keep glass between him and tarantulas. He wasn't too keen on pulling hissing cockroaches out of their cages either. When it comes to insects, he's more into learning how to control agricultural crop pests than getting up close and personal with large, exotic crawlers.

When he graduates from the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Dorsey plans to put his knowledge of crop pests – like aphids, nematodes, stink bugs and scale insects – to good use by combining it with a certificate in organic agriculture. (The certificate program is similar to a minor for undergraduates.)

Dorsey plans to be an organic farmer with a Ph.D., and he's already had good practice. His family is currently making the shift to organic farming.

Travis' Student Profile

Name: Travis Dorsey
Hometown: Nashville, Ga.
Year: Junior, 2007
Major: Entomology with a Certificate in Organic Agriculture

Q&A with Travis

What made you choose to attend UGA?

I have always wanted to become a Georgia Bulldog. I also wanted to attend the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.

How many times have you changed your major? What made you settle on your current major?

I have changed my major twice. I think that my current major will fit my future plans and help me in my career.

What exposure did you have to agriculture before coming to CAES?

I live on a farm where we grow pecans, cattle, and are currently changing to organic farming and will soon grow oranges, muscadine grapes and pasture-raised chickens.

What's your favorite class and why?

My favorite class is Entomology 2010. It is very interesting and fun. The professor uses many video clips and brings in insects for hands-on learning.

Which CAES instructor has been the most influential?

The most influential person I have ever talked with is Mr. Brice Nelson. He is the student recruiter for the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and has helped me not only with the admissions process of UGA, but with choosing classes that helped me find a major that suited me.

What's the most important thing you've learned this year?

Time management!!

What's one thing you're always sure to take to class?

A pen.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Hopefully somewhere near earning a doctorate and doing some conservation work outside of the U.S., and beginning my organic farming business.

What's the strangest or coolest thing that's happened to you at UGA?

I am going to be the first class to receive a certificate in organic agriculture at UGA.

Favorite thing to do outside class:

Play my guitar.

Best advice for incoming freshmen: