Every day graduation is one step
closer. As my last semester races by, I think of all the people that have
changed my life over these four years. That list is long, but the men and women
at Iowa Corn are certainly near the top. Here are some of the best memories
we've made together.
There's just something about that Hilton Magic! All Iowa State students should experience the thrill of a CyHawk game! |
Meeting Marco Andretti was one of the biggest highlights of the Ethanol Powered Weekend, but there were so many cool parts! |
I've had such a good time serving as an officer of ISU Corn Growers with these ladies. |
3. Network - Iowa Corn has given me an incredible network that I'll keep in touch with for years to come. Because of them, I know people who are passionate about agriculture, just like me, across the country. I've had the opportunity to work next to some of the most passionate agvocates (like Carrie and Janelle) while at Iowa Corn. Everyone in the organization inspires me with their work ethic and dedication to Iowa's farmers.
Meeting these Iowa bloggers at #AgChat Conference was truly life changing! I can't wait to see where this blog takes me after all their advice. |
4. ISU Corn Growers - For the last four years, when I wasn't in class, chances are I was at a club activity. Iowa State University Corn Growers Association (ISUCGA) has given me a chance to grow my friendships and leadership skills. With my fellow members, I've put on large events, cleaned up the local highway and traveled around the state. Serving as this group's secretary challenged me to grow creatively and as a teammate. Together, we made many memories that will last a lifetime.
Pump promotions with Iowa Corn were such a fun way to travel the state and talk to people about ethanol. |
During my internship I went on some really neat farm tours with foreign teams. It was awesome to see them learn about American agriculture. |
Last year our ISUCGA group went on an industry tour to Pioneer in Johnston, Iowa. I learned so much! |
7. Twitter Takeover - Anyone who knows me, even just a little, knows I'm passionate about sharing the stories of agriculture, especially on social media. That's why I was so giddy when Iowa Corn asked me to take over their Twitter account for a day last semester. It was so much fun to share how the organization and ag community have impacted my life with all their followers.
8. Wardrobe - This is one of those unintended benefits of involvement with Iowa Corn. I lost track of how many Iowa Corn shirts I've collected a long time ago, but I'm confident I could get through a week or two without repeating a one.
9. Farmland - Last spring, ISUCGA pulled off a wonderful Farmland Screening and Panel event. That night, guests watched the documentary Farmland, and had the opportunity to ask questions of six local Iowa farmers. Organizing this event is one of my biggest accomplishments of the last four years, but it wouldn't have been possible without the support of Iowa Corn. They lent us Captain Corn and the 8 foot farmers, plus donated cups (made from corn) so everyone could enjoy popcorn and drinks with the movie. The experience just wouldn't have been complete without popcorn!!
10. Industry Visits - The Market Development internship and ISUCGA opened doors to visit many ag businesses. I've learned more about livestock and seed corn production thanks to Iowa Corn related trips. You can read more of what I learned at a cattle feedlot, dairy days, egg facility and Pioneer in their individual blog posts.
It's safe to say college wouldn't
have been the same without Iowa Corn. I'm so thankful they've been part of my
agricultural journey so far, and I can't wait to see where the future leads. To
learn more about their organization and how it can change your life go to
www.iowacorn.org. To keep up with all they're doing with farmers and college
students like me around the state follow them on Facebook, Twitter and
Instagram. Thanks for reading!
Your passion for agriculture is inspiring, Natalina! I value your friendship and can't wait to see and be part of your next chapter! We've definitely shared many great memories and I look forward to many more! Kudos to you and thank you for helping farmers tell our story!
ReplyDeleteWhat an inspiring post! Good luck in your future!!
ReplyDeleteSounds like you have had a great time with lasting memories!
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