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Student Internship Experience

Katie Jarboe

My name is Katie Jarboe and I am a senior agricultural economics public policy major.

Through various internship opportunities, I have been given the opportunity to grow personally and professionally. It is important to realize that every experience gained gives you a new perspective and strengthens your skill set.

I recently interned with the Missouri Corn Growers Association. As a part of this opportunity, I provided assistance in writing articles for "Stalk Talk," utilized communication and networking skills through lobbying in the Missouri Capitol and communicated with producers across the state of Missouri regarding distiller's grains. Through these tasks, I have applied what I've learned in the classroom to the real world and relevant situations.

I was also able to apply the proficiencies gained from working as an intern for the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Farm Service Agency (FSA) to my work at the Missouri Corn Growers Association. At the USDA, FSA, I had the opportunity to see agriculture policy in action and specifically how farm programs are written and implemented to benefit farmers and ranchers on a local level. I also have gained a network of individuals throughout Missouri through FSA's county office structure. Being a part of the "Every Day, Every Way Department," has allowed me to impact not only farmers and ranchers but all Americans on a daily basis by promoting environmental protection, recovery from disaster and to assist in maintaining low food prices for our nation.

In May of 2009, I had the opportunity to attend the Sue Shear Institute for Women in Public Life. This program gave me the opportunity meet with young women from across Missouri who share an interest in the public sector. Through the Institute, I met with influential women, debated on the floor of the Missouri Senate and garnered relationships which I will continue forever.

This experience allowed me to use my knowledge gained from other internships and opportunities and truly improved my understanding of public life and government affairs.

I had the opportunity to attend Sue Shear by branching out of CAFNR to obtain additional experiences and I was pleased with the outcome. I encourage you to investigate various opportunities that can be obtained!

In addition, the network obtained while working in such internships are irreplaceable and certainly vital to future career aspirations.

Posted Sept. 25, 2009