University of Idaho Agricultural Education, Leadership, and Communications

The University of Idaho offers multiple opportunities for students to study and travel abroad throughout their college career, one of these opportunities is the Czech Republic trip. This travel abroad program took place from May 19 th through May 30 th of 2018. Four undergraduates and one faculty member from the Department of Agricultural and Extension Education attended the program; Bishal Thapa, Maggie Elliot, Annie Bass, Bethany Newtson and Dr. Jeremy Falk.  The activity log for the trip was very diverse and offered a unique look into the agriculture industry within the Czech Republic. Throughout the trip, students were able to reflect and make connections with fellow undergraduates from Kansas State University. The first day allowed for interactions with the USDA FSA office and representatives from the Czech Agrarian Chamber. Both committees offered an insight into US policy and Agriculture within that area. Students were also provided the opportunity to tour the la...

Spring semester has been a busy time for Collegiate FFA. From packaging aroma kits for their annual fundraiser, assisting with State Leadership Conference in Twin Falls, and conducting various community service events, CFFA members have immersed themselves in serving their community, the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, and Idaho FFA.   All of their passion and enthusiasm was displayed last night, April 23 rd , at the annual CALS Awards Banquet where CFFA was named the 2018 Club of the Year. This award is given to clubs who demonstrate excellence in mission, intent and service to its members, the college, and community. CFFA is honored to receive this prestigious award for the second year in a row. “We have many leaders in this organization who work hard to create valuable opportunities for our members,” said CFFA past-president Maggie Elliot.   “It means so much for CALS to recognize these investments two years in a row.” Club President, Liz Bumstead, a...

Midterms are next week! This point of the semester can be a stressful time. Here are some tips from AEE department seniors, veterans of midterm week, to help you stay on track and excel in your studies. Campus is stunning this time of year! Make time to take a break from your studies and explore the scenery!   Gabby Munson Although it is in my nature to procrastinate, through my college experience I have realized that setting time aside early to commit to studying for different classes reduces much of the anxiety associated with a big midterm exam. Another habit I’ve found helpful that   decreases stress is to compile a list of questions about lecture material.   And ask them! Approach your professors during their office hours and learn more about the subject matter. The material becomes easier to remember on the test when you have had personal interaction with the instructor. RyAnna Carter   My advice is to find a group of people to ...

Just because class is out doesn't mean AEE student's don't continue to learn. Check out four examples of internships our students experienced. Molly Sparrow Class Standing:  Junior  Major:  Agricultural Education Position:  Latah County Extension Intern 
 I was attracted to this position because it creates a great avenue to network with the local 4-H and FFA students in the area. I enjoy working with kids of all ages and experiencing the diversity of extension education as well as agricultural education. I taught a safe sitter class, instructed at horse camp, and prepared many things for the Latah County Fair.  I never did the same thing twice and I got to get out and be involved with the community. The most important concept I walked away with was that every student matters. Whether they are showing their cat, steer, working on rockets or just attending a safe sitter class. Everyone is an individual and brings something new...

by Maggie Elliot Each year the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences recognizes a student organization providing outstanding professional development, leadership, and service opportunities to members.   Monday, April 23 rd Collegiate FFA received the honor of being Club of the Year at the College of Agricultural and Life Science Awards Banquet. From touring high school programs across the Pacific Northwest to the Teach Ag Championship, members have a diverse array of channels to grow as professionals. Service projects are a priority for the organization, which seeks to maintain a presence in the community by donating blankets to Gritman Medical Center, raising money for Heifer International, and routinely cleaning up a section of Highway 8. “Collegiate FFA is a fun learning lab for students at the University of Idaho because members plan and implement events as part of CFFA that build skills they’ll use in their personal and professional lives.” said advisor...

By Maggie Elliot Visiting the universitiy's botanical garden  Eight students and 2 faculty members from the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences undertook a study abroad trip to Guadalajara, Mexico over spring break. I had the pleasure of joining the team of Vandals to explore agriculture in the region surrounding the city of Guadalajara.  Guadalajara is a city in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. Agriculture is a primary source of employment in Jalisco, as the state produces a fifth of the entire nation’s dairy, poultry, and eggs, and is at the heart of the tequila industry. The trip was operated in conjunction with the Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara, and we interacted with students daily as they drove us to our locations. We visited food processing plants, a dairy, research facilities, a hydroponic nursery, and a tequila distillery. A recurring theme of our visit was the adaption of regional agriculturists to climate change, as Jalisco’s pr...