By Andi Anderson
Matt McGarry, a 56-year-old Iowa State University graduate, has accomplished his lifelong dream of starting a dairy farm. Growing up on a farm near DeWitt, Iowa, McGarry was fascinated by his neighbor’s dairy operations, sparking his passion for milking cows.
Though he planned to pursue agricultural studies after high school, life took a different turn. Over four decades, McGarry gained diverse experiences, working on dairy farms across the U.S., managing healthcare roles, and renovating houses with his wife, Julie. Despite his varied career, his dream of starting a dairy farm remained.
Encouraged by his daughter Maddy’s graduation from Iowa State, McGarry enrolled in the agricultural studies program in 2020. The multidisciplinary option allowed him to focus on dairy science, food science, and international agriculture.
His hands-on experiences, including participating in Iowa State’s Start Something program and joining the dairy product evaluation team, provided practical skills and confidence.
This December, McGarry graduated with a bachelor’s degree, equipped to establish his dairy operation. He and his wife recently purchased 15 acres near Stanhope, Iowa, to serve as the foundation for their farm.
McGarry credits Iowa State for helping him refine his vision. “The structure of this degree and my experiences have given me the tools to succeed,” he said. He also plans to gain international insight by traveling to India with an Iowa State group to learn about dairy practices.
Though challenges remain, McGarry is optimistic about his future in the dairy industry. His story is a testament to perseverance and the belief that “it’s never too late” to follow your dreams. With his education and determination, he aims to contribute to the growth of dairy farming in Iowa.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ahavelaar
Categories: Iowa, Education