A horticulture student might even become a plant explorer. The landscape contracting major, directed by landscape architect Dan Stearns, trains students in the science, art, and business of landscape design, installation, and maintenance. Students have designed and installed plantings on campus with the assistance of the Office of Physical Plant, such as the outdoor eating area at Otto's Cafe, a formal garden at the University House, and the tee areas at the University golf course. We have to know plant science. Because students need to describe their ideas to clients, they also receive training in communication, hand drawing, and computer-aided design.
Computers enhance other classes as well.
In Dave Beattie's flower and foliage systematics class, students study from an on-line database of several thousand annuals and herbaceous perennials. But in November, when the snow's flying, we review them on-line. Students also can request impromptu quizzes from the site to help them study. Students also benefit from an active internship program, a strong alumni society, and the horticulture club's annual Hort Show in the Ag Arena. The show, which occurs on a football weekend, is created entirely by students.