Shelby Basham – National Corn Growers Association – Washington, D.C.

June Update

Eager, informed, and impacted are three words that I have frequently used when describing these past three weeks in Washington, D.C. with the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA). Three weeks ago, I made the over 700-mile move to our nation’s capital with three large suitcases, a cup of coffee, and a smile on my face. As someone who grew up in a community with a population of less than a thousand, I knew this would be a step outside of my comfort zone but I was ready to jump right in.

Speaking of jumping right in, I have learned fairly quickly that there is no other way to learn more about agricultural policy than to truly immerse yourself in the field. The National Corn Growers Association’s Public Policy team pushes you to do just that. Since hopping off the metro on my very first day to today, where I can now get to the office without using any form of navigation, the team has welcomed me in with open arms seeking opportunities to invest in my professional growth and goals. Not only have I been eager to get to know this team through one-on-one interactions and meetings discussing their specific passions and interests but I also learned how eager they are to help a young professional like me navigate my specific passions within the agricultural industry. Through this, I have been able to actively participate in projects with many different team members ranging from data analysis to grassroots activation to our upcoming Corn Congress event in July.

Since the first day, I have continued to feel more and more informed. I have always had this genuine craving to explore policies that impact growers and producers around the nation and in this role, I constantly am informed of new policies that shape what the future outlook of the agricultural industry could look like. Whether we are exploring market development, biotechnology, or farm bill policies, I consistently am feeling more and more informed on not only these specific policies but also the relevance of the work NCGA does and how these policies continue to impact growers.

My last and favorite part of these past three weeks that has been more impactful than words can even describe are the interactions I have had with the people that surround me. I have learned very quickly that DC revolves around building relationships. I have been able to build relationships at many events whether it was the congressional baseball game the DC ag intern network or my personal favorite, eating ice cream on Capitol Hill to celebrate our dairy farmers. For a girl like me who loves learning about agriculture and meeting new people, DC has treated me very well.

I am excited to continue this summer feeling eager, informed, and impacted by the opportunities and relationships that will continue to ensue. Three weeks, three suitcases, three words, countless experiences!