Making an Impact: Opening Doors for Rural Scholars in D.C.

Gracie Grimes is a third-year Rural Scholar  at the University of Georgia studying Animal and Dairy Science with a minor in Agribusiness and Management who had the opportunity to work this summer in Washington, D.C. 

Unlike other D.C. internships, Gracie was chosen by the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences to be one of the exclusive Congressional Agricultural Fellows. While living in Delta Hall with other CAES Congressional Agricultural Fellows and UGA students working this summer, she was able to grow not only in her professional skills, but strengthen her Bulldawg community as well.

Here are just a few of the ways a Congressional Agricultural Fellowship can be a life-changing opportunity for a student:

1. Policy Engagement: Fellows serve as agricultural liaisons in Washington, D.C., engaging with congressional offices. They attend agriculture committee hearings, prepare briefs, and conduct agricultural research.
2. Networking and Advocacy: Fellows meet with constituents, gaining first-hand experience in advocating for agricultural issues. This exposure helps build a strong network and enhances their understanding of policy dynamics.
3. Academic Credit: All Fellows fulfill the University’s experiential learning requirement through participation in this fellowship. Additionally, Fellows have the option to earn academic credit hours toward their undergraduate degree recognizing their commitment to applying their learning outside the classroom.
4. Career Preparation: Living and working in D.C. exposes students to the fast-paced environment of congressional offices. It prepares them for future careers in agriculture, policy, and related fields.
5. Lifelong Impact: Former fellows describe the experience as rewarding and a source of lifelong friendships. It’s an opportunity to contribute to Georgia’s leading industry and make a difference.

Supporting this program ensures that students receive valuable experiential learning, fostering the next generation of agricultural leaders. If you want to support CAES students wishing to do the Ag Fellows program you can give to the Congressional Agricultural Fellowship Support Fund.