Diego Campos-Atilano grew up witnessing his parents work endlessly in the fields of California. He was mesmerized by how much a citrus tree can yield and the various diseases and pests. Being a first-generation college student was challenging, he declared a psychology major but realized it was not for him. He met the project PI and discovered his passion for plant science. Diego was the first student to earn the new AST in Agricultural Plant Science and was accepted into the prestigious Agricultural & Environmental Plant Science program at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. He plans to obtain his Pest Control Adviser and Certified Crop Adviser licenses to help citrus and berry growers.
“The Hancock agriculture department demonstrated a learn by doing motto, within its garden and vineyard. I enjoyed being able to go outside and put to use what I learned in the classroom.” – Diego Campos-Atilano