The Part-Time Summer Intern at the Southeast Agricultural Research and Extension Center will primarily assist with various research and production tasks involving ornamental, vegetable, and agronomic crops. Responsibilities include planting, harvesting, and maintaining fields, as well as data collection and entry. Additionally, the intern will participate in events like field days and contribute to specific projects under the guidance of a supervising researcher.

While specific qualifications may vary, the Part-Time Summer Intern position at Penn State is generally open to students who are interested in agriculture and willing to learn. Ideal candidates should have a strong work ethic, be comfortable with manual labor, and demonstrate an eagerness to engage in agricultural research activities. Being a current Penn State student or employee is a prerequisite for this opportunity.

The Part-Time Summer Intern at the Southeast Agricultural Research and Extension Center will have numerous learning opportunities. Interns will participate in lunch-and-learn sessions where researchers share their insights during breaks. Moreover, interns will attend summer field days focused on diverse topics within agriculture, enhancing their understanding of real-world agricultural practices and research.

The Part-Time Summer Intern position at the Southeast Agricultural Research and Extension Center does not guarantee remote or hybrid work options. As this role is heavily hands-on and involves working in the field, the position requires interns to be physically present at the Center in Manheim, PA to effectively assist with research and production tasks.

Interning at the Southeast Agricultural Research and Extension Center offers significant career development benefits. It provides hands-on experience in agricultural research and production, exposure to interdisciplinary fields, and networking opportunities with industry professionals, all of which can enhance your resume and better prepare you for future career endeavors in agriculture and related fields.

When answering this question, focus on your genuine interest in agriculture and research. Discuss how the opportunity fits into your career goals, how you wish to gain substantial hands-on experience, and your eagerness to learn from industry experts at the Southeast Agricultural Research and Extension Center.

In your response, highlight any relevant experiences you might have had, such as working on farms, conducting research projects, or participating in related courses. Be specific about your roles, what you learned, and how those experiences have prepared you for this internship.

Share honest experiences with manual labor or physically intensive activities, emphasizing your strong work ethic and determination. Highlight examples where you successfully completed physically challenging tasks, showcasing your resilience and commitment to getting the job done.

Discuss a specific team project, detailing your contributions and how you collaborated with others. Highlight your communication skills, ability to work in a team setting, and any outcomes achieved, as this will showcase your teamwork ability relevant to the internship.

Before the interview, take time to research the types of agricultural research carried out at the Center. Explain your understanding of key themes like crop production, pest management, or sustainability. Show enthusiasm for contributing to these areas during your internship.

Describe your approach to managing multiple tasks, such as creating to-do lists, setting deadlines, or leveraging technology for organization. Provide an example of a situation where your prioritization skills were key to your successful completion of projects.

Discuss relevant skills such as teamwork, communication, organization, and a willingness to learn. Provide examples demonstrating how you have applied these skills in past work or academic experiences, emphasizing their relevance to the internship's responsibilities.

Talk about your flexibility and adaptability in different work environments. Share a previous experience where you successfully adjusted to a change or challenge, emphasizing your ability to stay positive and productive even when facing uncertainty.

Express your enthusiasm for gaining practical experience in agricultural research. Outline specific goals you hope to achieve, whether it's mastering certain skills, gaining insights into agricultural practices, or forming meaningful connections in the field.

Articulate your understanding of how diverse perspectives enhance creativity and problem-solving in agriculture. Discuss the importance of inclusion for fostering innovation and community engagement, and how these values align with Penn State’s mission.