Wes Shaw is from McLean, Texas, which has a population of 648 and is located on historic Route 66, also known as Interstate 40 Business. Wes graduated from Clarendon High School.
What did you like most about your hometown?
Growing up in a rural hometown, I loved all the connections I had within my community. When I would walk into a business in town, I would know almost every person in the establishment, and they would know me and my family. It felt like these people always truly cared about whether or not I was successful in whatever I was a part of, and I don’t think you can find that in larger cities.
Why did you choose Texas Tech?
From the moment I stepped onto campus here in Lubbock, I knew it was home. Not only does Texas Tech give off a small-town vibe, but it also values something that has been a part of my life: American agriculture. The Davis College is one of the most impactful things that drew me to Texas Tech. I felt like I could find my place here and I felt like I was a person that they wanted to build a relationship with while also pursuing a degree from one of the top agricultural programs in the world. I also would have to say that I would never have passed up the opportunity to build the Thoma Scholars program. I want for the Thoma Scholars to have a lasting impact on Texas Tech and the Lubbock community for years to come and am overjoyed to start this process!
Major and/or Career Goals
After I graduate from Texas Tech University with my Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Communications with a potential double minor in Agricultural Leadership and Plant & Soil Sciences, I want to pursue a career in public policy as an agricultural lobbyist working in Austin or Washington, D.C. I want to be a voice for rural lifestyles in these large metropolitan areas and inform our nation’s elected officials on the issues that face rural agrarian producers every day, from water conservation to cattle market fluctuations.
What types of reading do you enjoy?
Due to my love of public policy and government, I always try to stay informed on the state of the world. However, when that is not occupying my attention, I listen to numerous agricultural podcasts and enjoy reading novels.
What hobbies or interests do you enjoy?
I love watching college football and tailgating on Saturdays, traveling to new places (I look forward to studying abroad), watching movies, going to theatrical performances, listening to music and singing along with it, and playing tennis!
What things are you good at that nobody knows about?
When I was little, I was obsessed with maps and geography. As a result, I can draw maps to a high level of detail and can name almost every capital and country in the world. I completely believe I have this skill because my grandparents and parents always pushed me to strive for the highest levels of academic prowess and success. For that, I am eternally grateful to them.
Anything else you’d like to share?
To say I am grateful for this opportunity to be a part of the inaugural Thoma Scholars cohort is an understatement. I would like to express my immense thankfulness for this opportunity and cannot wait to see where the future leads!