Jadyn Taylor – U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council – Washington, D.C.
Intern Updates
Journal 1
Hello, my name is Jadyn Taylor. And I am entering my junior year at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, majoring in Hospitality, Restaurant, and Tourism Management with an emphasis on event planning. Minoring in Leadership and Communications, and Business.
This summer I am interning with the U.S Grains and BioProducts Council in Washington D.C through the Nebraska Corn Board. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity to represent the state of Nebraska at one of the highest levels!
Throughout the course of May I had the opportunity to become involved in the community, culture, and workplace dynamics of USGBC. One event that I would love to highlight is the Board of Directors meeting held on June 4, 2026. During this event USGBC’s directors from all over the nation collectively sat down and had a meeting.
I know what you might be thinking, just a meeting? What’s so exciting about that? Well, though it indeed was just a meeting. I had the opportunity to introduce myself to the directors, network with professionals, and see how an organization run by delegates functions. On a more surreal note, this meeting put into perspective the level of coordination, effort, and collaboration that USGBC must have to be as successful as they are.
My time with USGBC has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have had. Even though it has only been three short weeks, it has flown. I am lucky enough to have a team of professionals who answer the questions, understand the complexities, and allow me to have the space to learn.
As my time with USGBC continues, I am excited to dive deeper into the behind the scenes of upcoming conferences such as the 66th Board of Delegates meeting hosted in Milwaukee, WI. I am also excited to continue to work with industry professionals and partners throughout the organization.
See you then,
Jadyn
Journal 2
Reflecting on my month in Washington, D.C. with USGBC, I am so incredibly grateful for this opportunity to represent the state of Nebraska. I am also grateful to be learning from an organization that plays such an important role in developing markets, enabling trade, and improving lives.
As exciting as this opportunity has been, I would be lying if I said I walked into it feeling completely confident. One thing I have learned about myself this summer is that imposter syndrome can show up even in the moments you are most grateful for. There have been times when I have looked around a room filled with professionals, industry leaders, and people who have spent years building their careers and thought, “How did I get here?” At first, that feeling was intimidating.
But the more time I have spent with USGBC, the more I have realized that feeling unsure does not mean I am incapable. It means I am growing. I have been surrounded by people who have answered my questions, encouraged me to observe, and allowed me to learn without expecting me to know everything right away. That kind of mentorship has meant more to me than I can fully explain. It has reminded me that confidence is not something you have to arrive with; sometimes, it is something that is built through experience, support, and the willingness to keep showing up.
Moving into a new workplace, especially one in Washington, D.C., can feel overwhelming at first. However, the culture at USGBC has shown me how powerful it is when people make the effort to include others. Whether it has been through small conversations, introductions, meetings, or simply having someone take the time to explain the background behind a project, I have felt welcomed into a space that could have easily felt intimidating.
At USGBC, I have been able to watch professionals navigate conversations with respect, confidence, and purpose. I have seen how much coordination and care goes into representing farmers, members, partners, and international relationships. Those moments have taught me that professionalism is built through consistency, humility, and a willingness to learn from the people around you.
My time with USGBC has challenged me in the best way. It has pushed me outside of my comfort zone while also surrounding me with people who make that growth feel possible. I have learned that imposter syndrome does not disappear overnight, but it becomes easier to manage when you are part of a community that believes in you and gives you the space to become more confident in yourself.
As my internship continues, I am excited to keep learning, asking questions, and stepping into opportunities that once felt intimidating. I am grateful for the mentorship, professionalism, and community I have experienced so far. I know these lessons will stay with me long after this summer ends.
From Washington, D.C.,
Jadyn
Journal 3
I have now officially concluded my internship with the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council. I know I say it every time, but I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have spent this summer in D.C. This experience has provided me with invaluable lessons, both professionally and personally. I will carry these lessons with me throughout my career.
Throughout the summer, I dived deep into the complexities of event planning and logistics for the 66th Annual Board of Delegates meeting hosted in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Beyond the technical knowledge, the most significant professional takeaway was the importance of adaptability. In the fast-paced environment of Washington D.C., priorities can shift rapidly. Learning to navigate those changes with grace was a masterclass in professional development.
As my final week wrapped up, I felt a profound sense of community that I had been craving since I arrived. I had the chance to have final meetings with colleagues who have become mentors and friends. There is a unique comradery that forms when you are working together on meaningful projects. Saying goodbye to the team was bittersweet.
Walking through the city during my last few days, I realized how much D.C. had started to feel like home. The networking events, the late nights at the office, and the weekend explorations all contributed to a summer I will never forget. I am leaving the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council with a sharper focus on my goals and a heart full of gratitude for the people who made this journey possible.
Thank you,
Jadyn Taylor
