Intern Insider: My experience as an intern
My Summer with Farm Bureau: A Recap of an Incredible Internship
Melinda Patterson and Kassandra Simmons
Melinda Patterson and Kassandra Simmons

This summer, I had the absolute blessing of interning with Farm Bureau, and I truly can’t express how grateful I am for the opportunity. A huge thank-you goes to Melinda Lee for believing in me and giving me the chance to learn and grow in such a meaningful way. Over the past few months, I’ve developed so many valuable skills, made incredible connections, and had experiences that I’ll never forget.

Favorite Events from the Summer

Throughout the internship, I had the chance to work at several events—and while each one was special in its own way, a few really stood out to me.

COSI Farm Days

COSI Farm Days was such a fun and eye-opening event. It gave me the chance to talk with so many people and share what Farm Bureau is all about. One of my favorite parts was seeing kids—many of whom had never stepped foot on a farm or been around livestock—get excited about agriculture. Their curiosity and eagerness to learn made every conversation so worth it.

Franklin County Fair

Spending a whole week at the Franklin County Fair was another highlight. Franklin County is a very urban area, so being able to answer questions and educate people about agriculture felt incredibly important. The best part? Definitely the Country Olympics. Kids and adults alike dove into the games, got messy, and had a blast. It was fun watching everyone let loose and enjoy a break from the busyness of fair week.

Ice Cream with a Farmer – Plain City

This event was pure joy. From the delicious ice cream to the interactive stations, tractors and animals—it was a hit with all ages, especially the kids. Watching young children fall in love with agriculture and light up with excitement was such a fulfilling experience. It reminded me why I’m so passionate about this field.

Memorable Experiences

Aside from the events, some of the most impactful moments came from the day-to-day work. I handled everything from social media posts to filming and editing membership spotlights, which meant I got to visit local farms and interview farmers about their work and connection to Farm Bureau. That hands-on experience was incredibly rewarding. I met so many inspiring people, heard their stories, and learned about the unique challenges farmers face every day.

I also picked up some new technology skills that I know will help me down the line. I’ve never been much of a social media person, but learning how to use these platforms to promote a business has taught me a lot.

Lessons and Thank-Yous

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned through this internship is how to be comfortable with the uncomfortable. I used to be so nervous about approaching new people, but this experience showed me that building connections is where opportunity begins. Every conversation, every handshake—it all helped me grow.

To Melinda: Thank you for your constant support and guidance. You’ve taught me so much and inspired me with your work ethic and dedication. I’m so thankful for the chance to learn from you.

To Georgeann: Thank you for always being there to help—and for the laughs along the way. I’ll truly miss working with both of you!

As I look back on this summer, I just feel so grateful. I’ve gained knowledge, confidence, friendships, and a deeper appreciation for agriculture and the people who make it all happen. Farm Bureau has made such an impact on me, and I can’t wait to take everything I’ve learned into the next chapter of my journey.

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Kassandra Simmons has just finished up serving as the Intern for Central OH Farm Bureaus.

New and beginning farmers
My first recommendation in your journey is to start out with a local farming friend or mentor along with joining an organization like Ohio Farm Bureau.
Greg McGlinch's avatar
Greg McGlinch

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Nathan and Jill Parriman

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I could not have done it without the resources I have found through Farm Bureau.
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Gretchan Francis

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It wasn’t until I joined the Wilmington College Collegiate Farm Bureau that I truly saw how my passion could translate into leadership, advocacy and a career.
Wyatt Morrow's avatar
Wyatt Morrow

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The issue of property taxation remains as one of the biggest challenges our members face today. Ensuring agricultural property is valued for its agricultural potential and not development is critical to the continued success of Ohio agriculture.
Matt Aultman's avatar
Matt Aultman

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Chad Ruhl's avatar
Chad Ruhl

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Advocacy
So many of the issues that OFBF and its members are advocating for are important to all Ohioans. I look at OFBF as an agricultural watchdog advocating for farmers and rural communities across Ohio.
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Mary Smallsreed

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