Summer Intern Learns Relationships are Key in Washington DC

WASHINGTON, DC — Growing up around agriculture, I always knew I wanted a career where I could help farmers and have an impact on farm policy.  Studying agricultural economics at Texas A&M University (TAMU) has only strengthened that interest, especially in understanding how decisions made in Washington, DC, affect producers back home.  This summer, I had the chance to experience that world firsthand as a policy intern with USA Rice through TAMU’s Agriculture and Natural Resources Policy (ANRP) Internship Program.

Throughout the summer, I worked with the USA Rice Government Affairs team and gained a behind-the-scenes look at how trade associations advocate for producers.  I supported their work however I could, and these experiences gave me an understanding of how issues affecting producers are discussed and approached in a trade association setting. 

While I learned a lot from day-to-day activities, the highlight of my internship was attending USA Rice Political Action Committee (PAC) fundraisers and networking events where I got to meet Members of Congress, their staff, and professionals in the agriculture and trade policy space.  Having real conversations with the people shaping farm policy was an incredible experience, and it helped me see how the work happening in Washington connects directly back to the farmers and rural communities I grew up around.

Besides PAC fundraisers and networking events, a few moments really stuck with me.  The first was attending the Senate nomination hearing for Richard Fordyce, the new undersecretary for farm production and conservation, and the second was getting to go to Congressman Glenn “GT” Thompson’s birthday party.  As Thompson is the chair of the House Agriculture Committee, the party showed how tight-knit the agriculture community is here.  Being invited made me feel like I was part of that community, even as an intern.

Living and working in Washington was a great experience on its own.  Outside the office, I explored the city, visited historic sites, and learned how to navigate life in a fast-paced professional environment.  I also connected with other interns and young professionals who share my passion for agricultural policy.  One of my biggest takeaways from the summer is just how important networking and building relationships are here – every conversation has the potential to teach you something new, open a door, or inspire a future career path.

This internship confirmed my passion for agricultural policy and gave me a clearer picture of the many ways I can make an impact, whether through advocacy, trade associations, or government work.  It also opened my eyes to career paths I hadn’t considered before and showed me the value of stepping outside my comfort zone.  

I am incredibly grateful to USA Rice and the ANRP Program for giving me the chance to learn, grow, and contribute this summer in our nation’s capital.  It’s an experience I will carry with me into my future career in agricultural policy.