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University of Illinois College of ACES sees largest freshman class in decades

The Dean of the University of Illinois College of ACES says this fall’s class of incoming freshmen is the largest in decades.

German Bollero tells Brownfield…

“The largest in the college since the early ‘90s.”  He says, “So, we’re very excited about that. About 645 true freshmen coming through the door.”

He says it’s the result of an increased in-state focus on the opportunities available in agriculture.

“Major efforts into promoting and communicating the impact of careers in food, agriculture and natural resources to all kids around the state of Illinois.”  He says, “Out of 102 counties in the state, we got 92 represented.”

Bollero says the influx is benefiting all departments within the college, but especially majors combining computer science and ag.

“Computer science plus crop Sciences degree, computer science plus animal sciences degrees.”  He says, “Careers in natural resources and environmental sciences are growing very fast.”

He says only about five percent of College of ACES students hail from outside of Illinois.

AUDIO: German Bollero – Dean at U of I College of ACES