By now school is back in full swing. For many students that brings excitement, nerves and the promise of new beginnings. For students who come from dairy farming, it might mean feeding calves before the bus arrives, preparing for judging at World Dairy Expo, or deciding which college major best fits their dairy interests and skills. The dairy industry, and agriculture in general, has some of the best placement rates for recent graduates into a career immediately following college graduation. It's an industry hungry for young, driven employees with that strong work ethic found from growing up in and around the industry. As we continue to feed the world, jobs will remain secure for future generations.
Production agriculture, business, technology, sales and marketing, food processing, horticulture and communications are all areas for students to consider as they continue their schooling. Making yourself a marketable employee by taking classes in a few of your interest areas, double majoring or applying for internships outside of your major will all be appealing resume builders. In addition to classes, participating in extracurriculars outside of the classroom tend to lend equal amounts of insight, networking and knowledge. It's a great opportunity to build relationships with peers and industry professionals, glean advice and wisdom from those who have traveled the path before you, and teach consumers about the benefits of dairy.
You may consider buying the Dairy-related Careers book by Hoard's Dairyman for some additional insight and advice when looking into a future in the dairy industry. It also makes a great Christmas gift for a student in your family!
The author is the special publications editor, responsible for books, plans, distribution of the e-newsletter and various internal communication pieces. She grew up on a 60-cow dairy in northwest Wisconsin, and is a graduate of University of Wisconsin–Madison with a degree in life sciences communications.
