Hello everyone, my name is Chidera. I am a part of Penn State’s class of 2025, and I am majoring in agricultural science with a minor in horticulture. As a college senior, my journey into the world of agriculture is has been nothing short of transformative. With a passion for sustainability and a desire to make a tangible impact in my community, I was able to embark on an internship at Penn State’s Student Farm for the 2024 cohort. Here, I was immersed in hands-on learning, meaningful work, and a vibrant community of like-minded individuals. Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, Penn State’s Student Farm is more than just a place to grow crops, it’s a hub of innovation, education, and collaboration. For me, it has became a second home, a place where students can apply classroom knowledge to real-world agricultural challenges, while also expanding their horizons and exploring new interests.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this internship has been the opportunity to work closely with faculty, staff, and fellow students who share a passion for sustainable agriculture. On a related note, I’ve been able to network and build more connections with people in my dream field, crop consulting.
Based on what I learned from the AgEco 495 class, this internship experience has extended far beyond the field of the Student Farm. Through workshops, seminars, and community outreach events, my peers and I had the opportunity to engage with a diverse array of topics, from food justice and nutrition to soil health and agroecology. These experiences not only deepened our understanding of sustainable agriculture but also inspired us to become advocates for positive change in our own community.
One of the most eye-opening experiences for me in my journey was learning about the intersectionality of food systems and social justice. Through conversations with my peers and mentors, I have come to understand the ways in which food access, affordability, and quality are deeply intertwined with issues of race, class, and privilege. Armed with this knowledge, I will be committed to using my voice and platform to advocate for food equity and justice, both on campus and beyond. For reference, I am Nigerian American. Part of what I plan on doing in the future is going back to Nigeria to help support local growers and to educate the local youth about food systems. Considering how my country struggles to profit from many agricultural exports, I want to help ignite a change and keep Nigeria’s agricultural industry strong. Looking ahead to my senior year and beyond, I am excited to continue my exploration of sustainable agriculture and food systems. Whether I’m conducting research, volunteering in my community, or advocating for policy change, I am determined to make a difference in the world around me.