10 Things on “Interning”

Corn is at full growth. Calves are about to be weaned. And everyone is starting to say the words, “Are you ready for your senior year?” I’m only making observations (through telephone calls and snapchats because being surrounded by the city of D.C. doesn’t yield those things I might add), but I think my summer internship is ending...

We, as interns in every aspect, are wrapping up our summers reflecting and thinking about our experience these past couple months, and even more about our future. Working for the U.S. Grains Council this summer was a totally different summer I have been used to, and I wouldn’t have had it any other way. To wrap it up, I’m compelled to make a straightforward guide to what are great things to know and learn from in any internship, tailored to students who may not have had an internship before and may want some expectations. They rest of us can relate:

1. Don’t make assumptions
Sure, we all read up on the company, or talk to past interns. But when the rubber meets the road, the internship programming is changing on the company's end to tailor the needs of that specific moment. Be ready for changes and open to any experience we get exposed to.

2. We are there to learn
Believe me, coming from a man that is used to being outside all day with ranching responsibilities, it’s expected to be a learning curve when taking an internship that is completely different than what we are used to. Plus, we wouldn’t apply for college credits for the internship if this wasn’t the case.

3. Show up to work (as a verb)
Want a job? A reference? Or work that is more meaningful? Prove that you deserve those things.

4. It’s okay to ask for time off...for experiences
I was new to this one. Understand that the employers probably have made an internship position at their place of work because they believe in the learning objective. This is more inclusive to DC internships, as I can’t express enough on how many lunches and social networking events there are for interns in the Capitol City.

5. Take advantage of new locations
There is no better time to travel than when we are young. Experiencing another culture and geographic location, while having the time and energy to explore is perfect. The Nebraska Corn Board is a great example of a way to make this happen with their internships they facilitate in places like Central America, Mexico, Colorado, St. Louis, and Washington, D.C.!

6. With that...be involved socially
Yes, I know Netflix just bolstered their series lineup, but it will still be there when we return. How often in our lives do we get the opportunity to start a new original friend group that can allow our minds to think differently and grow our network of friends across the country? Take advantage of that ability.

7. Be ready to eat a lot of ham sandwiches
Nothing is more appetizing than eating a sandwich you made early that same morning, knowing it cost you about 50 cents for the whole thing. Especially when you are living in the district that is known for any prepared meal costing an arm and a leg.

8. Don’t get caught going through the motions
If we find ourselves in a stage of being comfortable or not learning anything, what is the credit? It’s good to settle in and be productive, but we shouldn’t settle for the “past” to be only place we learn.

9. Quality over Quantity on professional relationships 
Jack of all trades, master of none. Finding those meaningful and genuine relationships that we can lean on for our careers and advice goes a long ways. Yes, it’s good to broaden the scope of choices, but when it comes down to it, and if we know what path we want to take in our lives and careers, appreciate the quality of a few.





10. Be thankful 
Think about it. A majority of companies, when supplying an internship experience, put time and effort in training for the experience. In return, they get an employee they invested in leaving after ten weeks. Let’s say the internship was good, they would hope that we will return later down the road or give a return in some aspect on the investment. Being thankful for the opportunity, working hard on the job, and providing some sort of return on their investment is the least we can do.

I have an immense appreciation for the company and staff of the U.S. Grains Council. They gave this Rancher their trust, insights, and friendship, while allowing me to work alongside the global programs staff in planning and marketing U.S. Commodities. Planning and escorting the Japanese trade team through my home state of Nebraska may of been a highlight (and once in a lifetime internship experience), but it was only one of the many neat things I was able to be a part of, here at the world headquarters.

And to Nebraska Corn, I can’t think of another opportunity that is as genuine or perfect for an agriculturalist wanting to explore and grow themselves. Thank you. If you have interest in international agricultural policy and trade, and want to spend the summer in our nation’s capitol. Contact Nebraska Corn this coming fall!



David Schuler
Global Programs Intern
U.S. Grains Council
dschuler@grains.org
(202) 789-0789 Ext. 711