From Ranch to Policy: Tyler Schuster’s Journey in Agriculture and Advocacy
How a Rural Upbringing and a Passion for Change Led to a Career in Agricultural Policy and Nonprofit Leadership
Host lauren Moylan, article written By Gracelyn Boren
Tyler Schuster, our guest on the podcast this week, shared her unique journey in agricultural policy. Her roots lie in a ranch in Southwest Texas, where she was part of a graduating class of only 47 people. Growing up in a small town, she was an active member of her local 4-H and FFA chapters. It was her high school agricultural teacher who broadened her horizons, showing her that there were agricultural options beyond ranch work.
After high school, she attended Tarleton State University, earning a bachelor's degree in Ag Services and Development. Following her undergraduate studies, she pursued a master's degree in Public Service and Administration at Texas A&M. Schuster talks of how her ultimate goal in politics is to run for Texas Ag Commissioner, and she still hopes to achieve this aspiration in the future.
An internship with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association provided Schuster with the knowledge and experience she was seeking. After working remotely for the company for two semesters, she was given the chance to join the team on a full-time basis. She made the exciting decision to relocate to Fort Worth.
“The good news is, I don’t have it figured out... nobody has it figured out”
Schuster hit the ground running as she helped fill the executive director of events for three months. This position taught her valuable skills such as patience and time management and deepened her passion for working with young people, particularly college students. She talks of her experiences as a college student and how “people need to be loved on when they don't know what they're doing with their life.”Building on this belief, Schuster pursued her next challenge at Texas Tech University, where she worked as a fundraiser for the College of Agriculture. She saw this move as part of God's plan, aligning with her aspiration to become the Ag Commissioner and requiring her to live in various areas of the state.
Rooted in her passion for agriculture is also her desire to share the stories of those in the industry. In 2021, she created her podcast, Basically Famous. The name came from wanting to share the stories of those in her life who are basically famous to her. The podcast has now evolved into episodes mainly featuring women in the agricultural and Western industries. It's a space to discuss their careers, shedding light on jobs that listeners may have yet to be aware of.
Schuster emphasizes the power of being true to yourself on social media, the incredible impact of nurturing a supportive community, and the advantages of seeking guidance from mentors beyond your family circle. Looking back on her transformation from a hesitant college student to a thriving professional, Tyler reassures her audience that it's normal not to have everything figured out. She reminds us that life progresses in stages and that uncertainty often paves the way for personal growth. Recalling the stress of navigating different phases of life, she emphasizes that everything eventually falls into place.
Tyler Schuster's journey from a small-town ranch to becoming a prominent figure in agricultural policy is truly inspiring. Her dedication to her passion for agriculture, her pursuit of education, and her commitment to empowering others in the industry are admirable. Through her podcast and professional endeavors, she encourages authenticity, resilience, and continuous personal growth. Tyler's story serves as a reminder that embracing vulnerability, seeking guidance, and staying true to oneself can lead to fulfilling and impactful careers. Her insights on building confidence, establishing meaningful connections, and adapting to change are valuable lessons for anyone navigating their own path in life.