Sep 13, 2024
Summer break flew by, and students are back in classrooms. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) cheers them on every step of the way.
The USDA Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE) connects communities with USDA educational resources, empowering K-12 and college students.
USDA’s Agriculture in the Classroom Program boosts agricultural literacy for over 60,000 teachers and nearly 5 million students. The 4-H program develops leadership in youth, while AgDiscovery introduces teens to careers in agricultural sciences.
USDA provides numerous scholarships and internships, such as the Pathways Program, for high-school, undergraduate, and graduate students.
OPPE’s dedicated staff connect communities with USDA resources. Ruby De La Garza (University of Texas – Rio Grande Valley) advises students to network for mentorship and career opportunities by attending events and joining organizations.
Willette Squire, OPPE executive assistant, encourages students to set realistic goals and stay positive amid challenges.
USDA collaborates with student organizations to exceed youth potential in agriculture, science, nutrition, and more. Learn more at www.usda.gov/youth.
