Interns experience agriculture on the job

The 2020 group of MFA Ag Experience interns began their 12-week program May 18 with a slightly modified orientation to accommodate social-distancing guidelines at the home office in Columbia. Seated at desks about six feet apart, the students learned about company standards and became acquainted with MFA executives and fellow interns.

To be eligible for the pro­gram, applicants must be pur­suing a bachelor’s degree at an accredited college or university, be a full-time student in good standing with a grade point average above 2.75 and have completed their sophomore year of college.

The program, ending on Aug. 7, pairs each intern with a mentor from MFA Incorporated based on individual career objectives. Throughout the summer, the students learn about various sectors of agriculture by working with MFA and its members. As trusted employees, the students have access to the same technology resources, events and programs as other full-time employees in similar positions.

Students are challenged to stretch themselves beyond com­pletion of the job and use the opportunity to apply their class­room knowledge and previous work experience to real-world situations in the field. Upon conclusion of the program, the interns give presentations about their summer’s work to senior-level managers. Those who perform well throughout the program may be considered for future Ag Experience internship positions, part-time work during the school year or full-time employment after graduation.

MFA Ag Experience interns are, front row, from left: Larna Schnitker and Blake Elsberry. Middle row, from left: Graeson Bullington, Sara Gholson, Dallas Kleiboeker, Ryan Talkington, Mason Hunter and Paxton Dahmer. Back row, from left: Lillie Hegeman, Erik Eickhoff, Cash Hartley and Caleb Kindle.