My Summer with the Minnesota Beef Council

As a mountain dweller with a background in raising sheep, I recognize that I am probably what some may refer to as a “non-traditional” intern for the Minnesota Beef Council. That being said, I hope to offer a unique perspective and look forward to collaborating with the rest of the council as I immerse myself in industry relevant issues in order to promote the long-term viability of the beef industry as a whole.

I grew up in Yampa Colorado, where my family and I run a flock of primarily purebred Southdown ewes, equipping me with a strong livestock background. In addition to being actively involved in both 4-H and FFA and my participation in activities such as showing (pigs and sheep) and livestock judging, being from the mountains meant that I could also be found outside enjoying hobbies like skiing, paddle boarding, or fishing. 

Upon graduating from Soroco High School, I was certain that my career path was to become a high school agriculture teacher, so in accordance with that, I began to pursue my degree in agriculture education at Northeastern Junior College where I was also a member of the livestock judging team.

Now, three years later, as a student at South Dakota State University, my career goals have evolved and are maybe as unrefined as ever. That being said, my Ag Ed coursework continues to supplement my desire to be involved ineducation, while my animal science focused coursework and travelling across the country with a collegiate livestock judging team has allowed me to explore career opportunities beyond the classroom, opportunities such as the Minnesota Beef Council Summer Communications Internship. It is positions like this, that in my opinion, offer the best of both worlds by combining industry and educational experiences.

Once again, I am greatly looking forward to the opportunity while being extremely grateful for the experiences ahead and knowledge to be gained this summer!

-Grace