Month: May 2025

Summer Experience Highlight: Emma Lowe Interns with Ashland Soil and Water Conservation District

Emma Lowe, a recent graduate, is the natural resource intern with Ashland Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) this summer. Lowe will transition to the Columbus campus this fall and continue studying agriscience education. 

For her, this internship isn’t just about soil profiles and conservation strategies; it’s a full-circle moment rooted in childhood curiosity. “Growing up, I was very interested in natural resources,” she shared, “being the daughter of someone who works for ODNR.” Now, she’s getting firsthand experience and exploring educational outreach by creating curriculum boxes for teachers and leading school activities.  

She credits Ohio State ATI for giving her the tools and the confidence to chase this opportunity. “When I first arrived at ATI, I committed myself to being more than I was before,” she said. “It took a lot to believe in myself and step into the uncomfortable.” With encouragement from faculty and mentors like Mrs. Rachael Ramsier, associated faculty and program coordinator of agriscience education and community leadership, she made the leap into her first summer away from home. “Mrs. Ramsier pushed me to go out of my comfort zone and try something I’ve always wanted to.”  

As she started the internship, Lowe set three goals for herself: embrace the uncomfortable, speak her mind with new ideas, and take up space, without intimidation.  

One project she’s super proud of? Helping lead a Loudonville outdoor education event. “It felt overwhelming at first, but I saw myself push a student to step up as a leader. I saw the educator I’m meant to be.” 

Learning from mentors to discovering her voice, Emma’s summer experience shows the power of saying “yes” to growth and the difference one internship can make.  

Seeding Success: Night for Young Professionals

By Gracie Sprague

A seed doesn’t grow overnight. It needs the right conditions—good soil, steady care, and a little patience—to take root and flourish. As students preparing for careers in agriculture, our journey mirrors this process. Real growth takes opportunity, mentorship, and the courage to step outside our comfort zones. 

That’s why events like Night for Young Professionals (NYP) hold value. NYP is an annual professional development event hosted by the Agricultural Communicators, Educators, and Leaders of Tomorrow (ACELT) Club at Ohio State ATI, designed to connect students with industry leaders to cultivate networking and career skills.  

In addition to classroom lectures and hands-on lab experiences, an event like NYP takes it one step further. It provides students with real experience, real connections, and real confidence. Planning this event involved navigating logistics, collaborating with industry professionals, and seeing firsthand what it takes to bring an idea to life. For attendees, it was an opportunity to step forward, introduce ourselves to leaders in the field, and start building a future beyond college.

The best part of the event? The advice from professionals who have been where we are now. Here are ten standout takeaways from the NYP presentations: 

  1. “How do you differentiate yourself?” – Phillip Farmer, Tennessee Farmers Cooperative
    → Own what makes you unique. 
  2. “Raise your hand. Rise to the top by raising your hand and be willing to do one more push-up than everyone else.” – Phillip Farmer, Tennessee Farmers Cooperative
    → Initiative and effort set you apart. 
  3. “You interview them as much as they interview you.” – Karen Alsop, Centerra Co-op
    → The right job is about fit, not just an offer.
  4. “Every opportunity to meet someone new: take advantage of it. Put yourself out there, even if it feels uncomfortable.” – Karen Alsop, Centerra Co-op
    → Say yes, shake hands, and start conversations. 
  5. “There is nothing wrong with admitting ‘I don’t know.’ What matters is how you respond to that statement.” – Karen Alsop, Centerra Co-op
    → Be willing to learn; that’s what truly matters.  
  6. “You are exactly where you are supposed to be for a reason. It may not seem exciting, but foundational skills are essential.” – Micah Mensing, Farm Credit Mid-America
    → Every experience builds toward something bigger. 
  7. “Genuine always outweighs perfection.” – Micah Mensing, Farm Credit Mid-America
    → People connect with authenticity. 
  8. “I can’t teach you to be a good person. Show up, be personable, and work hard.” – David Marrison, OSU Extension
    → Hard work and kindness will take you far. 
  9. “Be present in all you do. When you are present, you will be successful.” – David Marrison, OSU Extension
    → Focus on the moment; give it your best effort. 
  10. “Bet on yourself. No one else can get you where you want to be.” – Todd Pugh, Enviroscapes
    → Confidence is the first crucial step to success.