5 answers
Amanda
Student
Oak Grove, Minnesota
5
Questions
Asked
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How can I try out farming?
I am in high school and I don't know if I want to go into farming yet so I would like to have a bit of experience in it before I peruse it as my career. I am wondering if there are places that hire kids for a summer job, just to help them get experience.
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5 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6451
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Amanda,
Exploring Farming as a High School Student
As a high school student interested in exploring farming as a potential career path, there are several avenues you can pursue to gain hands-on experience and insight into the agricultural industry. Here are some steps you can take to try out farming:
1. Research Local Farms and Agricultural Programs: Begin by researching local farms and agricultural programs in your area. Many farms offer summer internships or part-time positions for students who are interested in gaining practical experience in farming. Contact these farms directly to inquire about any available opportunities for high school students.
2. Volunteer at Community Gardens or Urban Farms: If you’re unable to find paid positions, consider volunteering at community gardens or urban farms. These settings provide valuable exposure to various aspects of farming, such as planting, harvesting, and tending to crops. Additionally, community gardens often offer educational workshops and events that can further enrich your understanding of agriculture.
3. Participate in 4-H or FFA Programs: Joining organizations like 4-H (Head, Heart, Hands, Health) or FFA (Future Farmers of America) can provide you with access to agricultural education, mentorship, and hands-on learning opportunities. These programs often include activities such as raising livestock, cultivating crops, and participating in agricultural competitions.
4. Seek Mentorship from Local Farmers: Reach out to local farmers and agricultural professionals to express your interest in gaining practical experience. Building relationships with experienced individuals in the industry can open doors to shadowing opportunities, mentorship, and valuable insights into the daily realities of farming.
5. Enroll in Agricultural Courses or Workshops: Consider enrolling in agricultural courses offered by your school or local community colleges. These courses can provide foundational knowledge about farming practices, soil management, crop production, and animal husbandry. Additionally, attending workshops or seminars related to sustainable agriculture and agribusiness can broaden your understanding of the field.
6. Attend Agricultural Events and Expos: Take advantage of agricultural events, fairs, and expos in your area. These gatherings often feature demonstrations, workshops, and networking opportunities that can expose you to different facets of the farming industry while connecting you with professionals and experts.
By actively engaging in these activities and seeking out opportunities to immerse yourself in the world of farming, you can gain valuable insights and practical experience that will help you make informed decisions about pursuing a career in agriculture.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. United States Department of Agriculture (USDA): The USDA provides comprehensive information on agricultural programs, internships, and resources for students interested in exploring farming as a career path. Their website offers valuable insights into educational initiatives and practical experiences within the agricultural sector.
2. National FFA Organization: The National FFA Organization is a leading source of information on youth development programs related to agriculture. Their resources include guidance on finding hands-on experiences, mentorship opportunities, and educational pathways for high school students interested in farming.
3. Cooperative Extension System: The Cooperative Extension System, established by the USDA and state land-grant universities, offers a wealth of resources for individuals seeking practical knowledge about agriculture. Their programs often include youth development initiatives and experiential learning opportunities tailored to high school students exploring farming.
These sources were selected for their authority in providing accurate and reliable information related to agricultural education, hands-on experiences for students, and mentorship opportunities within the farming industry.
GOD BLESS!
James.
Exploring Farming as a High School Student
As a high school student interested in exploring farming as a potential career path, there are several avenues you can pursue to gain hands-on experience and insight into the agricultural industry. Here are some steps you can take to try out farming:
1. Research Local Farms and Agricultural Programs: Begin by researching local farms and agricultural programs in your area. Many farms offer summer internships or part-time positions for students who are interested in gaining practical experience in farming. Contact these farms directly to inquire about any available opportunities for high school students.
2. Volunteer at Community Gardens or Urban Farms: If you’re unable to find paid positions, consider volunteering at community gardens or urban farms. These settings provide valuable exposure to various aspects of farming, such as planting, harvesting, and tending to crops. Additionally, community gardens often offer educational workshops and events that can further enrich your understanding of agriculture.
3. Participate in 4-H or FFA Programs: Joining organizations like 4-H (Head, Heart, Hands, Health) or FFA (Future Farmers of America) can provide you with access to agricultural education, mentorship, and hands-on learning opportunities. These programs often include activities such as raising livestock, cultivating crops, and participating in agricultural competitions.
4. Seek Mentorship from Local Farmers: Reach out to local farmers and agricultural professionals to express your interest in gaining practical experience. Building relationships with experienced individuals in the industry can open doors to shadowing opportunities, mentorship, and valuable insights into the daily realities of farming.
5. Enroll in Agricultural Courses or Workshops: Consider enrolling in agricultural courses offered by your school or local community colleges. These courses can provide foundational knowledge about farming practices, soil management, crop production, and animal husbandry. Additionally, attending workshops or seminars related to sustainable agriculture and agribusiness can broaden your understanding of the field.
6. Attend Agricultural Events and Expos: Take advantage of agricultural events, fairs, and expos in your area. These gatherings often feature demonstrations, workshops, and networking opportunities that can expose you to different facets of the farming industry while connecting you with professionals and experts.
By actively engaging in these activities and seeking out opportunities to immerse yourself in the world of farming, you can gain valuable insights and practical experience that will help you make informed decisions about pursuing a career in agriculture.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. United States Department of Agriculture (USDA): The USDA provides comprehensive information on agricultural programs, internships, and resources for students interested in exploring farming as a career path. Their website offers valuable insights into educational initiatives and practical experiences within the agricultural sector.
2. National FFA Organization: The National FFA Organization is a leading source of information on youth development programs related to agriculture. Their resources include guidance on finding hands-on experiences, mentorship opportunities, and educational pathways for high school students interested in farming.
3. Cooperative Extension System: The Cooperative Extension System, established by the USDA and state land-grant universities, offers a wealth of resources for individuals seeking practical knowledge about agriculture. Their programs often include youth development initiatives and experiential learning opportunities tailored to high school students exploring farming.
These sources were selected for their authority in providing accurate and reliable information related to agricultural education, hands-on experiences for students, and mentorship opportunities within the farming industry.
GOD BLESS!
James.
Thank you so much!
This really helps. I will look into talking with local farmers and possibly volunteering to get hands on experience.
Amanda
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
354
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
Hi, Amanda - it is a great idea to get some experience in farming before committing to it as a career. A few thoughts:
- Some high schools have agricultural programs (one in my town does) so see if you could join the program or at least take one of its courses
- Contact local farms or greenhouses to see if they could use seasonal workers
- Do a targeted search on such job search sites as Indeed.com. I searched "farm work for high schooler, minnesota" and got ads for a season worker at Green Valley Greenhouse" and technician at Floral Greenhouse. You could also search for "farm hand" or "agricultural". I also got unrelated results so you may have to play with the search criteria. That is why this is my 3rd suggestion. :-)
Good luck!
- Some high schools have agricultural programs (one in my town does) so see if you could join the program or at least take one of its courses
- Contact local farms or greenhouses to see if they could use seasonal workers
- Do a targeted search on such job search sites as Indeed.com. I searched "farm work for high schooler, minnesota" and got ads for a season worker at Green Valley Greenhouse" and technician at Floral Greenhouse. You could also search for "farm hand" or "agricultural". I also got unrelated results so you may have to play with the search criteria. That is why this is my 3rd suggestion. :-)
Good luck!
Thank you so much!
I will definitely look into that.
Amanda
You're welcome!
Martha Kramer
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
780
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Amanda, I want to first thank you for reaching out and asking your questions regarding your interest in gaining experience in farming before potentially pursuing it as a career. I hope the information that I have below provides you with some insight and/or help.
Your proactive approach to seeking hands-on farming experience is admirable. Luckily, there are numerous ways for you to get a taste of farming, even as a high school student. Many farms, especially smaller, family-run ones, often employ seasonal workers, including students, for various tasks during the summer. These tasks could range from planting and harvesting to livestock care and general farm upkeep. Moreover, some farms offer internships or apprenticeships specifically tailored for individuals like you, who are keen to understand farming better before committing to it as a career.
To find these opportunities, I suggest contacting local farms in your vicinity and asking about summer jobs or internships for students. Use online directories (https://www.pickyourown.org/jobsonfarms.htm or https://caff.org/jobs/ ), connect with agricultural organizations or cooperatives (https://www.usda.gov/youth/career or https://www.nps.gov/subjects/youthprograms/jobs-and-internships.htm), or even drop by farmers' markets or agricultural events in your community to network and gather information about potential opportunities. Show your enthusiasm and readiness to learn, as many farmers value individuals who are keen to gain experience and contribute to their farms.
Additionally, think about joining clubs or organizations related to agriculture or getting involved in school programs that offer practical learning experiences in farming or gardening. These can equip you with valuable skills and insights that will aid you in your quest to gain farming experience.
All in all, acquiring hands-on experience through summer jobs, internships, or volunteering on local farms can be an effective way to explore your interest in farming and determine if it's a career path you'd like to delve deeper into. I urge you to explore these avenues and connect with local farmers or agricultural organizations to find out about opportunities in your area.
Your proactive approach to seeking hands-on farming experience is admirable. Luckily, there are numerous ways for you to get a taste of farming, even as a high school student. Many farms, especially smaller, family-run ones, often employ seasonal workers, including students, for various tasks during the summer. These tasks could range from planting and harvesting to livestock care and general farm upkeep. Moreover, some farms offer internships or apprenticeships specifically tailored for individuals like you, who are keen to understand farming better before committing to it as a career.
To find these opportunities, I suggest contacting local farms in your vicinity and asking about summer jobs or internships for students. Use online directories (https://www.pickyourown.org/jobsonfarms.htm or https://caff.org/jobs/ ), connect with agricultural organizations or cooperatives (https://www.usda.gov/youth/career or https://www.nps.gov/subjects/youthprograms/jobs-and-internships.htm), or even drop by farmers' markets or agricultural events in your community to network and gather information about potential opportunities. Show your enthusiasm and readiness to learn, as many farmers value individuals who are keen to gain experience and contribute to their farms.
Additionally, think about joining clubs or organizations related to agriculture or getting involved in school programs that offer practical learning experiences in farming or gardening. These can equip you with valuable skills and insights that will aid you in your quest to gain farming experience.
All in all, acquiring hands-on experience through summer jobs, internships, or volunteering on local farms can be an effective way to explore your interest in farming and determine if it's a career path you'd like to delve deeper into. I urge you to explore these avenues and connect with local farmers or agricultural organizations to find out about opportunities in your area.
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Amanda
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1921
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Amanda !
You can try for employment opportunities and in addition I would highly advise joining the 4-H Club. There is a 4-H Club in every county in your state. You can meet with the club after school and on the weekends and work it around any work schedule you may have. As a member, you will gain learning and experience that will be wonderful for your resume.
I would also suggest that you begin a garden at your home and see how things go. You can explore both outdoor and indoor planting. I have left a link to videos on that below.
As for employment opportunities, work on your resume and have it ready to send out with cover letters to job openings that you find. Linked In and Indeed along with many other websites will list employment opportunities for you. By reading the employment notices, you will get an idea of the positions, salary and job qualifications. The employment website, Simply Hired has some farm jobs at this link : https://www.simplyhired.com/search?q=farm+hand&l=minnesota.
I hope that this was a bit of help and I wish you well with your plans !
THE 4-H CLUB https://extension.umn.edu/about-4-h/4-h-clubs
DISCOVER MINNESOTA 4-H (VIDEO) https://youtu.be/xkWePdO42TI?si=1MzZ-WxKi1m0_AFz
VIDEOS ABOUT INDOOR PLANTING https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=indoor+planting+for+beginners
AG CAREERS - AGRICULTURAL JOBS IN MINNESOTA https://www.agcareers.com/minnesota-jobs.cfm
JOBS HQ AGRICULTURE JOBS IN MINNESOTA https://www.jobshq.com/jobs/agriculture/minnesota/
You can try for employment opportunities and in addition I would highly advise joining the 4-H Club. There is a 4-H Club in every county in your state. You can meet with the club after school and on the weekends and work it around any work schedule you may have. As a member, you will gain learning and experience that will be wonderful for your resume.
I would also suggest that you begin a garden at your home and see how things go. You can explore both outdoor and indoor planting. I have left a link to videos on that below.
As for employment opportunities, work on your resume and have it ready to send out with cover letters to job openings that you find. Linked In and Indeed along with many other websites will list employment opportunities for you. By reading the employment notices, you will get an idea of the positions, salary and job qualifications. The employment website, Simply Hired has some farm jobs at this link : https://www.simplyhired.com/search?q=farm+hand&l=minnesota.
I hope that this was a bit of help and I wish you well with your plans !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Thank you so much for the feedback and advice. I already participate in 4-H and it takes up most of my free time, but I will definitely look into the other things.
Amanda
You are very welcome, Amanda !
Michelle M.
James SARGENT
Machine opt
54
Answers
Lawrenceburg, Kentucky
Updated
James’s Answer
Start looking for an opening for help on a person farm especially in the summer months. Try this for a summer and see how you like it before you make it your career.