Spencer Limcaco

Biology Major

Spencer Limcaco was meant to join The Forest at Indiana State University. The senior biology major with a minor in sustainability grew up around forestry work. Both of his parents were forestry majors in college, and his father works as a forester. He spent his childhood helping his dad remove invasive species. Back then, he was playing, but his playtime activity eventually led to a genuine passion for forestry and agriculture science.

“I fell in love with nature and plants. I want to do something that makes an impact in agriculture,” Limcaco says. He wishes to pursue a career in biotechnology engineering and quality assurance related to agriculture. He adds, “I want to make agriculture better for the environment.”

The Terre Haute native knew Indiana State would prepare him for these future career goals. Based on the experiences of his older sister, a 2021 speech-language pathology graduate, Limcaco was aware that the University delivers high-quality education with professors who care deeply about student learning and success.

“My professors [in the Department of Biology] encouraged me to meet people outside of class and to network with industry partners. I participated in research projects, and my professors helped me find internships,” he says.

Through the Office of Sustainability, Limcaco participated in the Bluestem Internship Program. This hands-on learning program allows students to work with faculty, staff, and community members to connect horticulture and urban agriculture with sustainability, cultural diversity, and social justice. Limcaco helped plant two garden plots, and he assisted with food forests that were donated directly to community members in need. Through these activities, he learned more about sustainable agriculture and other environmental issues.

“I was learning about sustainability, plant biology, and agriculture in my biology classes, and then learning more outside the classroom, which was really nice,” Limcaco comments.

The Sycamore also completed an internship with Corteva Agriscience in Indianapolis. The agricultural chemical and seed company optimizes the research and production of seeds, seed traits and treatments, and crop protection. In a year, the company uses more than one million plants with a focus on sustainable practices, Limcaco says.

“This was my experience in an industry outside of the classroom. The internship exposed me to connections in Corteva and with other professionals. I learned what companies are looking for when I graduate and begin my career,” he explains.

Limcaco, who is also a member of Indiana State’s Honors College and a President’s Scholar, enjoyed the friendships he formed as a Sycamore. From attending Honors College breakfasts to participating in student panels and more, he also learned a lot about communication, he says. And, through the Honors College, Limcaco spent a semester abroad in Thessaloniki, Greece.

“I never thought I would have the opportunity to study abroad, but that’s one of the perks of being in the Honors College. I learned a lot about myself and how to communicate with people. I picked up on different social cues. I met amazing people and other college students from the U.S. I think about the experience nearly every day,” he says.

Back on campus, Limcaco found ways to continue being active as a Sycamore. He served as a director of philanthropy for the Delta Sigma Phi fraternity, and as secretary of Students for Sustainability, where he focused on sustainability practices and environmental justice on campus. On Human Rights Day in March, Limcaco co-presented with the organization’s president, Daniel Garcia, about lead pollution, air quality, and how the Terre Haute community deals with historic and contemporary pollution. Limcaco knows these leadership opportunities have helped prepared him for his future.

“When I remember my time at Indiana State, I’ll remember the people and opportunities. I grew up in Terre Haute, so I always knew about Indiana State, but being a student here has shaped my attitude about the community, the people, and the opportunities right here,” Limcaco explains. “There’s something for everyone, and there are so many different ways to meet new people. Throw yourself in and you’ll find a place where you belong.”

Limcaco knows where he belongs. From learning about agriculture and the environment to student leadership opportunities and more, he says, his experience in The Forest has been quite memorable. Because environmental game-changers wear BLUE!