Local individual Dylan Foster, a student at Morehead State University, is among the 12 participating as summer interns at the Kentucky Department of Agriculture.
## Kentucky Department of Agriculture Summer Internship Program: A Valuable Experience for Students
The Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA) is offering a summer internship program that provides college students with a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the agricultural sector. This program not only supports the state's leading industry but also offers students a chance to work alongside KDA employees and the broader agriculture community.
### Diverse Career Paths
The KDA internship program offers students a chance to explore various career paths within the agricultural industry. These paths include policy and regulation, agricultural production and management, community engagement and outreach, and research and development.
Interns may find themselves involved in policy development and implementation, understanding the regulatory framework that supports agriculture in Kentucky. They can also gain insights into the various aspects of agricultural production, including crop management, livestock care, and farm operations.
Moreover, students may participate in programs aimed at promoting agricultural awareness and education within local communities. Opportunities may exist for them to assist in research projects focusing on improving agricultural practices and technology.
### Eligibility and Requirements
Typically, the program is open to undergraduate students who are pursuing degrees in agriculture or related fields. Students must submit an application, which may include a resume, cover letter, and academic transcripts. While prior experience in agriculture can be beneficial, it is not always required.
Internships are typically full-time during the summer, lasting several months. They are paid, providing students with financial support during their participation.
### Benefits and Opportunities
The benefits of the KDA internship program are numerous. Students gain practical skills and knowledge in various aspects of agriculture. They can also connect with professionals in the field, potentially leading to future career opportunities.
Participants understand the role of state government in supporting agriculture, which can be valuable for those interested in policy or government careers. The mentorship program can help launch careers in ag-related fields.
### Meet the Interns
This year, twelve college students are interning at the Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA). They include:
- Mary Brooke Stith, from Brandenburg, attending Murray State University - Emily Tabor, from Garfield, attending Western Kentucky University - Taylor Bishop, from Springfield and Greensburg, attending Morehead State University - Callie Hudson, from Versailles, attending the University of Tennessee - Rachel Cowherd, from Campbellsville, attending the University of Kentucky - The mentorship program can help launch careers in ag-related fields. - Dylan Foster, from Florence, attending Morehead State University - Leslie Monhollen, from Williamsburg, attending the University of Kentucky - Abigail Barrett, from Lexington, attending the University of Kentucky - Sayde Lowe, from Murray, attending Murray State University - Emily Chunglo, from Harrodsburg, attending Western Kentucky University - Shelby Butler, from Mount Washington, attending the University of Kentucky - Davis Miller, from Lexington, attending Wofford College
The interns have worked closely with employees to develop social media promotions, assisted KDA employees and Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell, and have been involved in the senior's market and the junior chef programs.
The KDA's internship program provides college students with an opportunity to work alongside employees and the agriculture community, gaining valuable experience and insights into considering a future career within the ag industry and with KDA.
- The KDA's internship program offers college students a chance to explore diverse career paths within the agricultural industry, such as policy and regulation, agricultural production and management, community engagement, and research and development.
- Students participating in the Kentucky Department of Agriculture's internship program may assist in programs aimed at promoting agricultural awareness and education within local communities, as well as research projects focusing on improving agricultural practices and technology.
- Eligible students for the KDA internship program are typically undergraduate students pursuing degrees in agriculture or related fields, and must submit an application that may include a resume, cover letter, and academic transcripts.
- Interns in the Kentucky Department of Agriculture's program gain practical skills and knowledge in various aspects of agriculture, connect with professionals in the field, and learn about the role of state government in supporting agriculture, which can benefit those interested in policy or government careers.
