Junior, Iowa State University
Iowa Dairy Sales Intern with Alltech
Based in Ames, Iowa

Background
Q. What is your agricultural background?
My dairy background is quite unique. I did not grow up on a dairy farm, however, I have had a passion for showing dairy cattle since I was a clover kid.

In about 7th grade I started working on my uncle’s dairy farm: feeding calves, painting buildings, cleaning pens and relief milking. I also pursued dairy judging in high school through the FFA. It was these programs that allowed me to fall in love with the industry.

One project that I think is commendable is Alltech’s Sustainable Haiti Project. Following the earthquake in 2010, Alltech created the project to help Haiti, but more than just giving them money, the project is about creating sustainable economic growth. One example of that is Alltech’s Café Citadelle coffee.

All of the beans are purchased directly from a  co-op in Haiti to help support and build that economy. There are exponential opportunities to be explored through Alltech whether it is in research, marketing, sales, or something completely different.

Q. What can you do to make a meaningful impact during your internship?
I do my best to exceed every expectation given to me during this internship. Like every dairyman, I work hard to do the job right the first time.

Q. What do you think will be the most challenging aspect of your internship duties?
Learning all of Alltech’s products and how they work is definitely a challenge. I’m grateful for all of the support from the rest of the sales team. They are always a phone call away if I have any questions. Visiting new dairies is also somewhat challenging, because you never know what to expect. Thankfully, all dairies have been very gracious and welcoming.

Future plans
Q. What do you hope to do after graduation?
I hope to graduate in 2014, depending upon how strenuous my credit load is. I have definitely developed a passion for sales this summer. I think this new found passion has a lot to do with meeting new people and touring dairy farms. I still have a few years to nail down something more concrete.

Q. Why do you want to remain a part of the dairy industry?
Dairy farmers are some of the nicest, hardest working people in the world. They are a joy to work with.  PD

Do you know of a 2012 dairy or agricultural intern who would like to be featured? This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to email Editor Emily Caldwell.

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