Internship opportunities are an important component of a student’s education and professional growth; they help UI students become better prepared for the workforce, while at the same time giving the student intern a glimpse at potential career paths. This can certainly be said of Amanda Kent’s internship with the Idaho Cattle Association during the 2002 spring semester. Amanda worked with Lloyd Knight and Sara Braasch at the ICA on various projects.

The ICA has looked at the possibility of hiring an intern for some time, according to Knight, Feeder Council Coordinator at the ICA. “The internship experience has been beneficial for both Amanda and ICA,” stated Knight. “Having a student in the office brings a new dynamic to the work we do, and has been a unique opportunity for ICA volunteer leaders and staff to involve future members of our industry in a different segment of our business environment—including policies affecting our industry and producer outreach and education. Amanda has played a key role in helping us accomplish our goals this spring.” The following is a snapshot of the ICA internship opportunity from Amanda’s viewpoint.

It has been said, “Opportunity is like the last hair on a bald man’s head, you better grab it before it’s gone forever!”

When I was given the chance to be a part of the Idaho Cattle Association, I knew it was an opportunity that I needed to grab, but I soon found out that I had better grab fast, hang on tight, and ask questions whenever Sara and Lloyd had a moment to spare if I was going to keep up with the herd at the ICA.

Since arriving in December 2001, I’ve been given various tasks - everything from picking up lunches for meetings, designing plaques for business members, and sending out mailings for membership renewals (boy, you have no idea how long it took me to lick all those envelopes!). Sara has taken me to the Capitol for many meetings, and Lloyd has taken me around to several beef schools in the area. I’ve been able to sit in at meetings with the food producers, the beef council, the Environmental Enhancement Program Advisory Group, fish and game, and even the University of Idaho. I’ve met ICA board members, and state legislators and lobbyists, and have found a welcoming handshake and smile from all.

This has been, for me, an unparalleled experience. I’ve been able to attend our state board meeting, have dinner with the dean of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, and I even got to go to the Governor’s Ball, where I had my picture taken with George Bush Jr. (OK so it was a cardboard cutout, details, details.)

Though this first month has come and gone so quickly, I still can’t believe all of the unique experiences I’ve had. I’ve found that the ICA covers many facets, and that there is a lot to learn and little time. I’m really looking forward to becoming a part of the ICA family.

Through UI internships employers gain assistance with special projects, well-prepared short-term employees, cost effective recruitment, and economical productivity. If you’d like more information about establishing an internship program at your company or organization please contact Dianna Gibney at Cooperative Education, UI Boise Center, 800 Park Blvd., Ste. 200, Boise, ID 83712; phone 208-364-4022; email dgibney@uidaho.edu

© 2002 University of Idaho, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences.