British student one step closer to his dream job after KDA internship

Together with other students from the University of Kentucky and other colleges in Kentucky, Groth spent the summer gaining first-hand experience and knowledge about the role of the KDA in the agricultural industry.

During her internship, Groth worked in the Kentucky Office of Agricultural Policy, which supports efforts to provide grants, incentives and low-interest loans to encourage the growth of farmers and agribusinesses. Much of her work involved traveling around the state to attend county-level meetings and other events.

Groth recently completed her year as FFA president, a role that took her all over Kentucky. Her internship with the KDA has exposed her to even more places and experiences across the state.

“Commissioner Shell let us travel so much, it was my favorite part of the job,” said Groth. “I love networking, I love talking to people, and I feel like I get to do that a lot at KDA.”

The daughter of two Martin Gatton CAFE graduates, Groth is pursuing a double degree in agricultural education and agricultural economics. Last year, she took an introductory agricultural economics course with Professor Allison Davis, which proved very helpful for her internship.

“We learned a lot about everything from the supply limits of cities to our current economy and its impact on agriculture,” said Groth. “All of these things have helped me in my day-to-day life.”

All Martin-Gatton CAFE students are required to complete some form of experiential learning. Internships, one of the options, are a great way to supplement what is learned in the classroom.

“KDA's internship program provides college students with the opportunity to work alongside our staff and the agriculture community for a unique one-on-one experience,” said Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell in a KDA press release. “This mentorship program provides a great benefit to those who want to continue in the agricultural field and helps them launch careers in agriculture-related fields.”

The internship at KDA was crucial for Groth's contacts and her resume and pointed her in the right direction for her future goals.

“I learned so much and am very fortunate to have had this opportunity this summer,” Groth said. “I know no matter where I go in my future career, I want to make an impact on agriculture in Kentucky.”

KDA's six UK summer interns were Jackson Baird, Wade Carrington, Caroline Groth, Karissa Hamilton, Jack Matthews and Angelina Sonoqui.

To learn more about student success and programs at Martin-Gatton CAFE, visit https://students.ca.uky.edu.

–University of Kentucky