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This study examined the motivating factors that influenced prospective graduate students’ choice in pursuing an advanced degree and choosing an institution at which to study. This article articulates the qualitative piece of a larger study which sought to understand these reasons and why they were important. Interviews from 15 current graduate students at two land-grant universities were coded and thematically analyzed according to phenomenological reduction procedures. Results of the study indicate that prospective graduate students highly weigh (1) funding opportunities, (2) external factors such as career advancement or higher pay, (3) personal growth and learning opportunities, and (4) perceived flexibility within their program when applying for graduate programs in areas of agricultural education, agricultural communication, extension education or agricultural leadership development. Finally, doctoral students felt the opportunity to conduct research was also an important factor, although most master’s degree students disagreed. Future recommendations for research included identifying differences in motivations for students of different demographics and more deeply exploring students’ understanding of possible funding opportunities and processes.

As the diversity of Extension clientele continues to grow, it is important for Extension educators to consider new ways of supporting this population. The purpose of this new 5-page article is to provide a framework for educating diverse audiences to assist in helping these audiences attain the learning outcomes of Extension education programs. This includes: (1) acquiring a knowledge base of diverse cultures, (2) designing or utilizing culturally relevant curricula, (3) utilizing cultural caring and developing a learning community, (4) practicing intercultural communications, and (5) establishing cultural congruity in classroom instruction. Written by John Diaz, Cecilia Suarez, and Laura Valencia and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Agricultural Education and Communication. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/wc341

Members of Generation Z, the incoming generation of college graduates and future members of the workforce, will require specific leadership and support to reach their potential and contribute to the needs of the agriculture industry. This 3-page publication describes Generation Z and offers best-known practices for preparing this generation to contribute to Florida’s agriculture and natural resource industries. Written by Celia Elizabeth Suarez and Valerie McKee and published by the UF/IFAS Department of Agricultural Education and Communication, August 2018. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/wc311