From right to left: Bryce Borchardt, Harper Parson, Emily Muehlstein, Alyna Garcia
Alyna Garcia – Raymondville, Texas
Alyna Garcia, from Raymondville, Texas, is the daughter of Roberto and Anadelia Garcia. Alyna says she has a deep appreciation for the swine industry as she grew up raising and exhibiting show pigs. Currently, she is studying a dual degree in animal science and Spanish at Texas A&M University. After completing her degree, she intends to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. Alyna aspires to be a vet for both small and large animals. Eventually, she would also like to forge her own show pig operation. Alyna is excited to be a part of the team to advocate for and give back to the industry she feels most passionate about. The best advice Alyna received was to not take for granted the opportunities gifted to oneself and to appreciate every opportunity because it’ll quickly become a memory. Alyna offers her snippet of encouragement; to pursue what one is truly passionate about, no matter the opinions of others. A fact that may surprise you about Alyna is her certification in small engine technology.
Bryce Borchardt – Krum, Texas
Bryce Borchardt, from Krum, Texas, is a sophomore at Texas A&M University studying Animal Science. Bryce plans to pursue a master’s degree in meat science or agricultural communications post-grad, to equip herself to be an educated and experienced advocate for the agriculture industry. Bryce grew up raising and showing livestock with her family through FFA and 4-H. She has enjoyed working at the TAMU meat science department and learning more about the commercial side of the industry. Bryce is excited to be a junior ambassador because it’s an opportunity to learn more about pork producers and make connections throughout its network. She wishes to educate others on the positive impact of the swine industry and expand her horizons. Bryce has been taught always to put forth her best effort and believes it’s the best advice she could offer. She advises always to throw your hat in the ring and give it all you have. To take a chance on oneself, and be proud of the work you put in. Bryce is an avid baker, and prides herself on her infamous (and highly requested) cinnamon rolls!
Emily Muehlstein – Stamford, Texas
Emily Muehlstein is a recent graduate of Stamford High School in Stamford, Texas. She is the daughter of Curt & Naomi Muehlstein and began showing pigs at the age of five years old. Emily will begin at Texas Tech University this fall to study agriculture communications. Her long-term plans are to pursue a career in animal pharmaceutical sales or news broadcasting. Emily has been an accomplished showman for years, showing competitive market barrows since she was eight. Within the show ring, she has earned honors such as the Grand Champion Barrow at the San Antonio. Emily is also an entrepreneur, owning her own cold laser therapy business. E.M. Cold Laser Therapy. She is thrilled to be a part of this program and hopes to use her time as an ambassador to take
the opportunity to influence younger members and advocate for our industry. Emily recalls her most pivotal advice being to strive for progress over perfection. “Follow God, allow him to work
through you, and guide the way.” Emily is excited to lead a younger generation through her position and mentor those like she was once encouraged. In the meantime, you can find her enjoying outdoor activities of any sort and trying new things.
Harper Parson – Devine, Texas
Harper Parson, from Devine, Texas, is a sophomore at Texas A&M University studying animal science. Harper plans to earn his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine and become a farm veterinarian while pursuing his passion for public office on the state and federal levels. Harper wishes to preserve farmer rights in legislation. Harper has grown up raising and exhibiting Texasbred hogs with his family. Harper worked to become a junior ambassador to give back to the industry that built him into who he is today. Harper wishes to help grow the general public understanding of the swine industry and advocate for issues affecting our community. He believes educating people about our impact and advocating for our importance is vital. Harper believes perseverance and seeking out
opportunities are crucial to becoming your best version. He hopes we all can work together to protect the future of the American Pork Producer. You can find Harper listening exclusively to the 1960s to 1990s country while in the A&M swine research lab.