Interning with Michigan Farm Bureau is a great way to jump-start a career in agriculture. Farm Gate’s checking up on some former MFB interns to see what they’re up to — in their own words:
I grew up on a small hobby farm raising everything from rabbits and chickens to goats and sheep with everything in between. I started showing livestock at county fairs through 4-H as soon as I could walk, and continued through my high-school involvement in FFA.
Always surrounded by agriculture, I developed a great passion for agricultural literacy and education. I made the most of several mentoring opportunities as leadership development became more important and interesting to me.
Combining my two biggest passions, leadership and agriculture, I chose to study ag education in college — thinking it the best of both worlds — before changing gears to communications, hoping for broader opportunities beyond the classroom. I’m on track to graduate from Michigan State University in May of this year!
At Michigan Farm Bureau I interned with the Young Farmer program, working mostly with Megan Sprague and Katie Eisenberger to coordinate contests, events and track program records. I also assisted Alexis Feldpausch and Michelle Blodgett with Michigan Ag in the Classroom duties. I wrote articles, created social media posts and interviewed members active with the Young Farmer and Promotion & Education committees.
My work at Farm Bureau confirmed that agriculture is the industry I want to be part of. It fits my personality well and I’m grateful for the chance to intern at MFB; I would not have gotten the experience and reassurance without that experience.
I was mentored by industry professionals who guided me with amazing advice and knowledge I expect to use for years to come. Beyond their guidance, I also gained the network of individuals who, even after my internship, I still regularly connect with.
Currently I’m interning with GreenStone Farm Credit Services and still showing animals at my county fair, although this will be my last year in 4-H. Looking forward it’s been suggested I take over our 4-H club as a leader, in charge of guiding 30+ young members along their 4-H journey.
I’m also an active member of the Webberville FFA Alumni. After my internship with GreenStone and graduating from MSU, I hope to find full-time employment in agricultural communications.
I would love to return to Michigan Farm Bureau again someday, or at least find somewhere to work with them in my career. Regardless of where I land, I look forward to contributing to agricultural education and outreach as a professional ag communicator.