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College Royal: Continuing a Unique Tradition in Agriculture and Hospitality
March 18, 2011
Ashley Knapton likes to show people where their food comes from. The second year BSc(Agr) student is taking a break from College Royal activities, and reflecting on hosting visitors for the annual student-run open house. Unique among Canadian universities, College Royal was started at OAC in 1925 with an animal showmanship competition, livestock judging and grain displays. Over the years, the university has evolved and College Royal’s program has expanded. As the event’s popularity has increased, its agricultural roots remain firmly in place.
“College Royal grew with the school, but in my heart it’s an Aggie event,” says Knapton “OAC has the most clubs entered for College Royal” she says, referring to the program of activities and displays that includes the secret life of plant roots by the Plant Agriculture Graduate Student Union and bio-security by the Poultry Club. “It’s a true representation of our willingness to get involved.”
For Knapton, that involvement includes the Dairy Science Club and the Judging Club, a student-run group that equips participants to judge everything from livestock to clothing. “One of the great things about OAC is that clubs apply to real life” she says. “Each club gives an opportunity learn something different. Clubs keep you motivated and keen, especially getting through the first year.”
Knapton hopes to work in the agriculture industry for a few years after graduation, and then return to help her parents run their dairy farm near Almonte, Ontario. Her father is also an OAC alumnus. “Dad was involved and it’s something I grew up with. When I got here, upper year students recommended it. It’s one of those things you do – and one of the biggest things about OAC is the opportunity for networking.”
Her activities with the judging club have enabled her to travel across Canada and compete with students from other schools. “It’s fun,” she says. “You exercise skills and then make new friends. Judging is about being able to apply criteria and reasoning, so that you can go to a sale and make a worthwhile investment. It’s a practical application and that’s a big part of the OAC experience.”
“People are attracted to the Aggie spirit,” says Knapton, before going off to another event. “I see it at all through the shows. People want to know more about us, our cattle and matching jackets”.
College Royal continues on the University of Guelph main campus through March 20. At the Ridgetown campus, the student-run Spring Expo will take place on March 18 and 19 and include a student livestock show and a community pet show. The Kemptville campus College Royal was held on March 11 and 12.
