Join us in welcoming our summer intern, Madison Honkomp!
Major: Agricultural Communications and Political Science
University/Year in School: Sophomore at Iowa State University
What do you love about agriculture?
"I absolutely love the community within the agriculture industry. The people that make up this industry are not only willing to sit down over a cup of joe and chat about everything under the sun, but also, farmers, ranchers, and so many others are always willing to lend a helping hand to their neighbors. May that be planting, harvesting, or getting the cattle back in the pasture, everyone is always working towards one goal: providing for our society."
Tell us about your family/farming background:
"I grew up on a small acreage outside of Winterset, Iowa. As a family, we focused on raising cattle for showing through FFA and 4-H, as well as having horses and various different species including goats and rabbits. My brother, Jacob, and I began showing bottle calves at 5 years old and each continued showing through high school."
Favorite sector to learn/discuss in agriculture:
"My all-time favorite topic to learn and discuss in agriculture is policy and how we, as an industry, can agvocate to consumers and lawmakers in order to improve the industry and how we are viewed by society."
What are you most looking forward to this summer as the Ag News Daily/Global Ag Network Intern?
"I am most excited to learn more about what it takes to be an agricultural journalist and develop interview and professional skills. In addition, I hope to improve my skills in graphic design and marketing as well as learning what it takes to run a small, growing business."
What made you decide to intern for AND/GAN?
"To be completely honest, I had very little understanding what the Ag News Daily Podcast was, but I needed a job during the 2018-2019 school year. On a whim I applied, got an interview, and loved the dynamic between Mike and Delaney, and ultimately, listening to the podcast became a daily occurrence on my way to class."
What else should our listeners know about you?
"I did a complete 180 on my decision for school and my major. Until my senior year of high school, I wanted to go to Benedictine College, a private Catholic college in Kansas, and major in Spanish Teaching. But, I couldn’t be happier I changed my mind."