By Morgan Oliveira, Past State Officer
After concluding my year of service as the California FFA State Sentinel, I turned to the Agricultural Council of California to embark on a summer internship, eager for the challenges and opportunities it promised in advocating for agriculture. However, as I reflect on that experience now, I am filled with gratitude for the abundant learning opportunities and personal growth it brought.
Throughout the summer, I immersed myself in the work of the Agriculture Council of California, delving into the intricacies of agricultural policy and advocacy. Traveling from my hometown of Hilmar, California, twice a week to actively participate in the Council’s efforts at the state Capitol became a routine. Each time I walked into work and caught sight of the Capitol, I was reminded of the significant impact of the Council’s work on the agriculture industry in our state.
Growing up in the heart of California’s Central Valley and being raised in a dairy and almond farming family has allowed me to not only grow an appreciation and love for agriculture but also hold an awareness of the policies that shape the industry. However, this internship provided me with a fresh perspective on the policies that shape the industry. Being an active part of the initiatives that the Ag Council enacts challenged me in ways that fostered personal growth. Whether it was conducting research, attending legislative hearings, or preparing content for Council events, each experience pushed me to expand my understanding and skills.
Ag Council works tirelessly in the effort to protect the agriculture industry and consistently prioritizes their members' interests and needs. I am profoundly thankful to have honed my background and experiences to contribute to Ag Council’s advocacy efforts that represent farmers, agriculture cooperatives, and farmer-owned businesses throughout our state. Reflecting on my experience as an FFA member and state officer, I am certain that my involvement with California FFA has profoundly influenced my post-jacket journey. The tenacity, hard work, and unconditional desire for personal growth have undoubtedly sprouted from the experiences FFA has given me.
My journey from FFA State Sentinel to summer intern with the Agricultural Council of California has underscored the immense value of agricultural internships. They offer practical experiences, insights into policy advocacy, and personal growth opportunities that are invaluable for anyone passionate about the industry. I encourage fellow FFA alumni and those interested in agriculture to explore such internships as they can truly pave the way for a rewarding and impactful career in agriculture.
Morgan Oliveira, hailing from Hilmar, California, served as the California FFA State Sentinel from 2023 to 2024. Currently pursuing a degree in Agricultural Communications at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, she emanates a profound dedication to advocating for agriculture. Raised in a family deeply entrenched in dairy and almond farming in Hilmar, Morgan's commitment to championing the cause of agriculture permeates through her educational endeavors, professional pursuits, and personal experiences.
