When Tendai Musinga graduates, she will have not only one but two bachelor’s degrees–one from each of Arkansas’s land-grant universities. Musinga will have a bachelor’s degree in animal science from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) and a bachelor’s degree in poultry science from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville (UAF). This unique program is the 3+1 Poultry Science Program.
“This program is an innovative partnership between UAPB and UAF,” Dr. Emmanuel Asiamah, associate professor of animal science at UAPB and Musinga’s advisor, said. “Students complete their first three years at UAPB in animal science, followed by a final year at UAF focusing on poultry science. This unique arrangement allows students to earn bachelor’s degrees from both institutions, making them exceptionally well-prepared for the workforce.”
Musinga, who is originally from Lusaka, Zambia, has proven that the program prepared her for the workforce. She has already accepted a position with American Foods Group as a management trainee in quality assurance in Gibbon, Nebraska. “I always wanted to study in the United States,” she said, “and I was fortunate to receive the Chancellor’s Scholarship from UAPB. The scholarship covered full tuition, room and board, which made it possible for me to pursue my education here.” Musinga originally started at UAPB as a biology major, but later switched to animal science because of her passion for animals.
“I felt it was the perfect field that aligned with my interests. I have always been interested in working with animals,” she said. “I was introduced to the 3+1 program by Dr. Obadiah Njue (interim dean of the School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences) who helped guide my decision and
strengthen my focus in this field.” Musinga said she valued the community as well as the supportive faculty at UAPB. She attributes their encouragement and mentorship to her success.
“I completed two internships while in the program,” she said. “In 2023, I worked with the Walton Family Foundation in their Denver office. In 2024, I completed a summer internship at Cornell University. Both experiences provided valuable insight into the professional world and helped me build skills in leadership and communication.”
She said that her advisor at UAPB, Dr. Asiamah, was “incredibly” supportive and helpful throughout her time at UAPB.
“I truly appreciated his guidance and mentorship,” she said.
Dr. Asiamah called Musinga an “exceptionally hardworking and diligent student.”
“When she began the 3+1 program, she immediately recognized its potential and the career opportunities it could offer. Her enthusiasm never wavered throughout the program,” Dr. Asiamah said. “I’m incredibly proud of her accomplishments, and I believe she will be an excellent ambassador for the program. Her success story will hopefully inspire other students to consider this unique educational opportunity.”
Over the past year at UAF, Musinga said she gained hands-on experience in many areas of the poultry industry, from working directly on the farm to spending time in processing plants. She also had the opportunity to connect with industry professionals.
“Now, I’m excited to be graduating with my 3+1 degree and I look forward to starting my career with American Foods Group,” she said. “Long-term, I am considering going to grad school to continue learning and growing in the industry. This program has given me the knowledge, experience and connections I need to take the next step in my journey, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”
