It has truly been such a privilege to work as NASDA’s summer policy intern. Throughout my childhood and my current undergraduate career, I have maintained a deep interest in all aspects of the food system ranging from production to food security. NASDA’s outstanding policy team covers every aspect of the American food system through unwavering engagement with its membership to ensure their voices are heard in Washington, D.C. I couldn’t be more grateful to gain insight and mentorship from every member of NASDA’s community.
Looking back on my summer, I am appreciative of the sheer variety of experiences I participated in alongside the extensive professional development that I witnessed in myself. At the beginning of the summer, I had the opportunity to attend NASDA’s agricultural attache tour alongside the Maryland Department of Agriculture. Through this event, I immediately gained exposure to the stunning connections NASDA maintains with key international trade partners. I also deeply appreciate the opportunity that I had to assist with testimony development, question preparation and press release drafting for Missouri Agriculture Director Chris Chinn’s testimony before the House Committee on Agriculture during the “Examining the Consequences of EPA’s Actions on American Agriculture” hearing. I finished my last week of my internship with an inspiring tour of NASA’s Earth Information Center to learn about the Administration’s Harvest Agriculture Mission. I also enjoyed every engagement with NASDA’s federal partners through Capitol Hill visits, online meetings and policy analysis.
My experience with NASDA was truly unforgettable thanks to the welcoming team that always made me feel appreciated and supported. I look forward to continuing my work in agricultural policy in my future career, and I thank NASDA for pushing me forward in such a rewarding and remarkable field.
