Farm to Freight: An Inside Look into Agriculture, Exporting, and Marketing
When I first started my job at Food Export, I had no idea how much that experience would change me. My very first day was October 15th, 2024. Six months flew by. Now I’m here, with one month to go.
Reflecting on this experience, I want to emphasize how little I knew about agriculture or exporting when I started this job. I’ll walk you through my experience, start to finish.
Who is Food Export?
Food Export USA is a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting companies looking to export to foreign markets. These companies can range anywhere from small businesses with five employees to medium-sized businesses with hundreds of employees. Food Export is made up of two different State Regional Trade Groups – Food Export Midwest & Food Export Northeast. Each region works in tandem, but is responsible for different regions -13 states in the Midwest, 10 states in the Northeast.
They offer multiple services for businesses: Exporter Education, Market Entry, and Market Promotion.
My Experience
I’ve said this since the start – I loved my time here! It was fun and engaging. It challenged me and supported me. When my family home burned down, they supported me and my family by donating clothes and other items. An action like that cost nothing at all but made me feel cared about.
The work is incredibly interesting. I’m always learning something new. Marketing is fast, you have to think fast and constantly be open to trying new things.
I used my previous experience with web design to redesign a few pages of our website. I made flyers, short form video content, and took charge on a social media project for #NationalFoodDay. Essentially, we have a large amount of clients and we wish to spotlight and celebrate them. We make short form videos highlighting a top product revolving around the day. If it’s “Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast” day, we’re highlighting one of our suppliers. Additionally, I worked across departments as support in my free time. No matter how small or big the project, I didn’t mind taking on anything. I embraced each task with enthusiasm and exist this internship just as enthusiastic.
If I could change anything…
I would be more determined to document and track my progress. Again, nothing is too big or small.
To any aspiring interns or incoming interns — take pictures! Save your work!
And more importantly, enjoy your time, remain curious, and positive.
