ARLINGTON, VA – Rice was a staple at nearly every meal growing up. But even though I was raised on a farm, I never imagined that one day, this seemingly simple grain would open the door to my first experience in agricultural policy in Washington, D.C. This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to intern with USA Rice through Texas A&M University's Agricultural and Natural Resources Policy (ANRP) Internship Program. I started with limited knowledge of the rice industry, but I’m leaving with a genuine appreciation for the producers, advocates, and professionals who work to support the U.S. rice industry every single day.
Interning during America's 250th anniversary celebration and at a pivotal time for Farm Bill discussions made this experience especially memorable. It gave me the opportunity to see how agricultural priorities move from conversations among producers and industry leaders to policy discussions in Washington. As part of the USA Rice Government Affairs team, I experienced that advocacy firsthand.
Work looked different every week, and I was grateful for the opportunity to contribute in a variety of ways. In the office, I helped draft the weekly Capitol Update newsletter, authored several USA Rice Daily news stories, and researched the history of U.S. rice tariffs. Outside the office, I had the chance to attend meetings on Capitol Hill, networking receptions, industry events, and fundraisers, where I met professionals from across the agricultural industry. Being part of these different settings showed me that government affairs involves more than legislative work – it is also about understanding the issues, building relationships, and advocating for people and industries.
One of my favorite experiences was volunteering at the Ag250 event at George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate in July alongside fellow interns. It was rewarding to see our work come to life together with so many organizations gathered to celebrate the history and impact of American agriculture. Leaders from across government and industry, including Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman, and House Agriculture Committee Chairman “GT” Thompson made remarks at the event, all touching on a shared commitment to strengthening the future of agriculture in our country.
During the event, I also had the opportunity to meet Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz, a fellow Texan and member of the House Agriculture Committee. It was exciting to speak with someone whose work directly influences the agricultural policy that impacts issues I saw firsthand growing up in an agricultural community, particularly the challenges facing the workforce.
As I prepare to return to Texas A&M University to pursue a Master of Public Service and Administration, I am incredibly grateful to USA Rice and the ANRP Program for introducing me to agricultural policy through the lens of a trade association I have grown to love. This internship strengthened my desire to one day return to Washington and pursue a career in agricultural policy.
While I’ve learned so much that I will carry with me after the summer ends, one lesson from USA Rice Vice President of Communications and Strategic Development Michael Klein might stick with me the longest: at any restaurant, be sure to ask, “Is your rice U.S.-grown?” It’s a simple question, one that now reminds me that behind something as seemingly familiar as rice is an entire industry of producers, advocates, and professionals dedicated to supporting American agriculture.