Spending spring break in Washington, D.C. with my ACE 291: Agricultural Policy & Leadership class was an eye-opening experience that deepened my understanding of the intersection between agriculture, policy, and leadership. While I expected to learn about how policies are shaped and implemented, what truly stood out to me was the dynamic nature of policymaking and the diverse career opportunities in this space.

Bridging Policy and Agriculture

One of the biggest takeaways from this trip was seeing firsthand how deeply agriculture is intertwined with policy decisions at the federal level. Whether it was hearing from leaders at the USDA, discussing trade policy at the Mexican Embassy, or meeting with industry groups like the Farm Credit Council, I gained a greater appreciation for the complexity of agricultural policy. The Farm Bill, for instance, isn’t just about farming—it influences food security, conservation efforts, rural development, and even global trade. This realization reinforced how important it is for policymakers, industry leaders, and consumers to work together to shape policies that support sustainable and equitable food systems.

A New Perspective on Leadership

Beyond the policy discussions, this trip also made me reflect on leadership—what it means, who embodies it, and how I see myself stepping into leadership roles. From the Agri-Pulse Summit to conversations with congressional staffers, I saw how effective leaders in this space are not just knowledgeable but also adaptable, collaborative, and deeply committed to their mission. It made me think about the type of leader I want to be—one who advocates for sustainable and informed policy decisions that benefit both people and the environment.

Considering a Future in D.C.

Before this trip, I had always envisioned myself working in Washington, D.C., or at least interning there. My passion for policy and politics has driven me for as long as I can remember, and I knew that D.C. was the heart of decision-making. However, visiting the city and experiencing it firsthand made me want to do all of that—and more. Walking through the halls where policies that shape millions of lives are debated and decided gave me an entirely new level of motivation. It’s one thing to read about policy in a classroom, but it’s another to stand in the spaces where those policies are actively being shaped. The conversations I had with policymakers, industry leaders, and advocacy groups solidified my desire to pursue a future in this space, whether through an internship, a full-time career, or a role that allows me to engage with policy on a broader scale.

Final Thoughts

This trip challenged me to think beyond the classroom and envision what a career in agricultural policy could look like. It reaffirmed my passion for sustainability and policy while showing me new career pathways I hadn’t fully considered before. Whether or not I end up in D.C. long-term, one thing is certain: the insights I gained from this experience will continue to shape my academic and professional journey in profound ways.

A special thank you to Professor Coppess, Meredith, and Chaya for making this trip possible, and to my classmates for making it such a memorable experience!