Hi everyone! My name is Macy Grove, and I am a current Senior student at the Pennsylvania State University, University Park Campus. I am studying Agbusiness Management with minors in Horticulture and International Agriculture. I wanted to take a moment to highlight the research side of agriculture, as I have had the opportunity to get involved both on and off main campus. My internship last summer was one of those wonderful opportunities. I worked at an extension center of Penn State called the Southeast Agricultural Research and Extension Center. This is an extension center dedicated to agricultural research that takes interns each summer. There are different sectors of research that they focused on, but I focused on their horticultural research. In that, there were both tomato studies and pumpkin studies. The tomato studies had two parts: a field study and a high tunnel study. The high tunnel study had grafted tomato varieties meaning that the plants had root stalks of a different variety attached. The field, on the other hand, had new varieties of tomato plants sent not only from Penn State but also other researchers. I learned more than I could have ever imagined doing this study. I learned about the research process, the growing process, the data entry process, and so on for both studies. The growing process included learning about how to mix fertilizer, how to run an irrigation system on a timer, how to implement an irrigation system, how to tie the plants correctly, how to stake the plants, how to check soil moisture, how to check water pH, how to look for disease and pests (scouting), and more. The research process included learning about the plant's biomass (some got to 10ft tall in the high tunnel!!) and how to "grade" the ripe tomatoes based on look: redness, cracking, damage, size, weight. The research process included taking down all the data collected and inputting it on tables and charts that would be used to create the final reports.

While this was my main focus over the summer, I also helped to start the pumpkin study at the end of the summer as well as got the chance to look at the other projects, help with events on site, and show guests the facility. The pumpkin study consisted of hand planting and irrigating a variety of pumpkin seeds treated with different chemicals to prevent disease or pests. Our goal was to create a wall of foliage as soon as they grew to encourage disease to see how they resisted against it. The other projects I got to look at were the flower study's, bug collection study, and soybean and corn studies. Fun fact: growers and companies from all over the world send their seeds here to be planted and tested for quality assurance! I even saw some from places like Japan. Finally, getting to work on other tasks for my personal development was key in this internship. I learned how to work machinery like a tractor and woods mower, a zero-turn lawn mower, a weedwhacker, and a skid steer. I learned how to effectively communicate about research and our findings. Finally, I learned how to help host events for industry professionals.

Luckily, this job transitioned from the research farm to an on-campus position. I now work in the Dr. Paul Esker Plant Pathology Research Laboratory. Here, I get to work less in the field, and more in the lab setting looking at plant diseases. I process seed samples by grinding and counting them. I get to practice PCR and qPCR on DNA samples. I get to take subsamples of fungus being grown in our incubators. I have learned how to use laboratory equipment like a centrifuge, an autoclave, and pipettes. You will see more in the photos below! Overall, even as a business major, taking all of these opportunities to research agriculture through Penn State has given me quite the scope and experience I have always searched for. I could not recommend research more!!

Agricultural Sciences Teacher
Nicole Hall
 
The Dynamic World of Agricultural Sciences Teaching: A Career Rooted in Hands-On Learning
In the evolving landscape of education, few careers are as dynamic and impactful as that of an agricultural sciences teacher. This profession blends the rigor of science with the practicalities of agriculture, creating a unique teaching environment where no two days are the same. If you have a passion for agriculture, science, and education, a career in agriculture education might be your ideal path.
The Role of an Agricultural Sciences TeacherAn agricultural sciences teacher is responsible for educating students about the principles and practices of agriculture. This includes everything from crop management and soil science to animal husbandry and sustainable farming practices. The role requires a deep understanding of both scientific concepts and their real-world applications, making it a field where knowledge meets practical skill.
One of the most exciting aspects of this career is the emphasis on hands-on learning. Unlike traditional classroom settings where theoretical knowledge often takes precedence, agricultural sciences teaching prioritizes experiential education. Students engage in activities like planting and harvesting crops, caring for livestock, and operating machinery. This experiential approach not only reinforces theoretical concepts but also equips students with practical skills they can use in real-world scenarios.
An agricultural science teacher also has many of the same responsibilities as a regular classroom teacher. These tasks may include writing lesson plans, grading papers, meeting with parents, serving as a mentor and role model for students, and attending to students' social-emotional needs.
The most well-known role of the agricultural sciences teacher is that they also wear the hat of FFA Advisor. The National FFA Organization is a youth leadership organization. The agricultural sciences teacher works with a team of Chapter Officers to organize events, activities, and competitions for students throughout the year.
Hands-On Learning: The Core of Agricultural Sciences EducationHands-on learning is at the heart of agriculture education. In a typical lesson, students might start with a classroom discussion on soil composition or crop rotation strategies. However, the real learning happens when they head outside to apply these concepts. Whether it's testing soil samples, planting a vegetable garden, or caring for animals, students gain invaluable experience by doing rather than just reading or listening.
For instance, when teaching soil science, students might analyze different soil types in the lab and then compare their findings with field samples. This dual approach reinforces their understanding and makes the learning process more engaging. Similarly, lessons on plant biology might be complemented by students planting and observing crops, allowing them to see firsthand how variables like sunlight and water affect growth.
This method of learning by doing not only enhances students' grasp of agriculture science but also builds critical thinking and problem-solving skills. By tackling real-life challenges and working through practical problems, students develop a deeper appreciation for the complexity and beauty of agriculture.
The Variety of Each Day
No two days are the same for an agricultural sciences teacher. The diversity of tasks and responsibilities is part of what makes this career so interesting. A teacher might spend one day leading a field trip to a local farm, the next day setting up an experiment to test irrigation techniques, and another day working with students on a community garden project.
The variety extends beyond classroom activities. Agricultural sciences teachers often collaborate with local farmers, industry professionals, and community organizations to bring real-world insights into the classroom. They are also involved in organizing agricultural fairs, judging competitions, supervising students’ work-based learning projects, and working on grant-funded projects that support innovative agriculture practices.
Here is just one example of a day in the life of an agricultural sciences teacher:

5:30 am - Wake Up
6:30 am - Drive to school
7:00 am - Check email, make copies, and prepare my lessons for the day
7:40 am - Morning Hall Duty
7:50 am - Homeroom
8:00 am - 1st Period Small Animal Care
Today we are learning about avian reproduction and waiting for the last of our chicks to hatch! (find photos in the attached collage!)
8:40 am - 2nd Period Introduction to Agriculture
Today we are learning about the anatomy of a pig!
9:20 am - 3rd Period Prep Period
Check email, make copies, and prepare my lessons for the next week
10:00 am - 4th Period 8th Grade Exploring Agriculture
Today we are learning about how to make butter from heavy whipping cream!
10:40 am - 5th Period Horticulture
Today we are learning about floral design and making corsages for prom!
11:20 - 6th Period Building Trades
Today we are learning proper woodworking techniques and building a birdhouse!
12:00 pm Lunch
12:40 pm - 7th Period Natural Resources
Today we are learning about biodiversity and pond habitats.
1:20 pm - 8th Period Food Science
Today we are learning about fortification and nutrients found in cereal, which makes it magnetic!
2:00 pm - Activity Period FFA
Today we are working on our educational display about grain-fed vs. grass-fed beef for the county fair!
2:40 pm - Students are dismissed
3:00 pm - After school FFA Activity
7:00 pm Ag Teacher Meeting
…And do it all again tomorrow!

The Impact of Teaching Agricultural SciencesTeaching agricultural sciences is not just about imparting knowledge; it's about shaping the future of agriculture. Students who engage in hands-on learning and practical experiences are better prepared for careers in agriculture, whether they're interested in farming, agribusiness, environmental science, the trades, or food technology.
Agriculture science teachers also play a crucial role in promoting sustainability and innovation in agriculture. By educating students about sustainable practices, conservation efforts, and new technologies, teachers help foster a new generation of agricultural professionals who are equipped to address the challenges of food security, environmental stewardship, and climate change. Agriculture science teachers are also shaping the next generation of consumers. Whether students choose to pursue a career in the agriculture industry, or not, we all need agriculture to eat our beloved three meals a day!
ConclusionA career as an agricultural sciences teacher is both challenging and immensely rewarding. It offers the opportunity to inspire students through hands-on learning and practical experiences, ensuring that no two days are ever the same. By integrating theoretical knowledge with real-world application, agricultural sciences teachers prepare students for successful careers while making a tangible impact on the future of agriculture.
For those passionate about agriculture, science, and education, this profession provides a fulfilling and dynamic career path. The blend of classroom instruction, fieldwork, and community involvement ensures that every day brings new opportunities for discovery and growth. If you’re looking to cultivate a career where you can make a difference and keep things exciting, teaching agricultural sciences might just be your perfect field!
For more information and FAQs visit the National Association of Agriculture Educator’s website https://www.naae.org/teach-ag/why-teach-ag/overview/.
For more information about agriculture education teacher openings and job postings visit the Center for Professional Personnel Development’s website:https://aese.psu.edu/teachag/agriculture-education-teaching-career-opportunities.