AGEC Junior Spends Summer as ASTA intern in D.C.
Written by Jo Thomas, Academic Advisor, Agricultural Economics
Lauren Schreck (Junior; AGEC; Fishers) has always had a strong passion for policy and agriculture. To her, agriculture has a global impact on the basis of a strong economy and civilization. During her time as a student, Lauren has worked towards an internship that would combine both of these interests. This summer, Lauren served as a Communications and Policy Intern for the American Seed Trade Association in Alexandria, VA.
During her time as an intern, Lauren lived in Washington D.C. at George Washington University. Through her position, Lauren wrote the new student newsletter, led a session on professional development through networking at the annual policy conference in Denver, CO, and helped prepare for briefings, hearings, and other meetings with Congressional staffers on Capitol Hill.
This experience far exceeded expectations and strengthened professional skill sets. “Working in a federal policy environment is unlike any other experience. The pace of information was unexpected but pushed me to stay ahead of topics or learn quickly. It was also intriguing to see the strategies behind various policy and communications conversations, especially when it came to addressing controversial issues.”
Lauren is grateful to have had this internship experience while also being part of the Purdue College of Ag Public Policy Internship Program. She would encourage anyone interested in policy to spend time working in D.C. through this program or through organizations like ASTA because it's a great opportunity to grow quickly in a city that is constantly at the heart of headlines.