Allyssa Berry

"Work, then play." This is a personal motto of agricultural journalism major Allyssa Berry, AgJ '08.

For this Pattonsburg native, a career in public relations at an international agriculture company will allow her to combine her journalism major with minors in agricultural economics and international agriculture.

Berry chose the Agricultural Journalism Program because of her passion for ag and the realization that many people are misinformed about the industry.

"With its continually changing landscape, even people involved in agriculture can have a tough time keeping up with the changes," Berry said. "I wanted to be a spokesperson for agriculture to keep people updated on the progress the industry makes as it overcomes its many challenges."

A member of Sigma Alpha professional sorority, Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow, CAFNR Week Steering Committee and CAFNR Student Council, Berry also serves as a study abroad ambassador for the college.

Her internship posts include the Missouri State Fair, Missouri Soybean Association and Pioneer Hi-Bred International.

Berry's advice for high school students: "Anyone interested in this program should realize that it takes a lot of commitment and be willing to take on 'real-world' responsibilities throughout their college years. However, it will give you an edge on the competition, namely through numerous opportunities to improve your writing skills."

Such opportunities "are hard to find in our field," she said.