Student Profile
Katie Jarboe, MU Ag Econ Club President
When I came to the University of Missouri in Fall 2006 from Gallatin, Mo., I declared Agribusiness Management as my major.
After taking an Ag Econ policy course with Dr. Abner Womack, I changed my major. I switched to Agricultural Economics with an emphasis in policy, an option offered through this degree. The class helped me become interested in applied economics and how it affects agricultural policy.
My involvement with the Ag Econ Club began by attending my first meeting. I found a very valuable network of students who had similar interests—a network has proven to be more valuable every day!
The friendly and fun environment doesn't stop us from getting involved in interesting professional activities.
As a freshman, I decided to run for office to become more involved. I first became the Student Council Representative—a position that let me become part of the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Student Council. Then, after a year of active participation, I decided to run for president.
Being the Ag Econ President has benefited me greatly. I've met many interesting people including new members, students from other clubs, faculty from our department, and professionals from outside campus.
Being an officer is not an easy task, but it is definitely rewarding. As president, I have improved my leadership skills. These skills will help me in my career.
Being involved requires time management, which is another skill I have learned to master and which prospective employers seek strongly.
Involvement provides many networking and career preparation opportunities. For example, the Ag Econ Club sponsors the Industry Round Table after the Fall Career Fair.
We also bring speakers from the industry and government. One of our speakers was a representative from the USDA. After giving her my resume, I got an interview for a position. As a result, I currently work at the USDA-Missouri Farm Service Agency.
I honestly believe I would not have gotten this job without the exposure the Ag Econ Club provided me.
