By Andi Anderson
A groundbreaking initiative led by Michigan State University (MSU) aims to equip undergraduate students with research skills in agricultural finance, food safety, and food insecurity. Assistant Professor Jeta Rudi Polloshka has secured over $700,000 in funding to provide hands-on research and extension opportunities focused on data analytics.
Participants in the program will collaborate with peers and faculty across multiple universities to undertake impactful research projects. Their work will culminate in presentations at the Agricultural and Applied Economics Association’s annual summer conference, providing a platform to share their findings with industry professionals. The program is part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Research and Extension Experiences for Undergraduates initiative, which has allocated $11.6 million across 17 similar projects.
In addition to MSU, Auburn University, Oregon State University, and the University of Georgia are also part of this collaborative effort. “This program offers undergraduate students the opportunity to work in groups with peers and faculty at other academic institutions to research important, industry-relevant, and policy-relevant topics,” said Polloshka.
Program Structure and Recruitment
The program runs from 2025 to 2029, accepting 60 students across five cohorts. Recruitment prioritizes underrepresented and economically disadvantaged students, including community college transfers. Participating students will be paired with faculty mentors based on their research interests and will also connect with professionals in the agriculture and food industries for guidance on career and academic paths.
Students will engage in lectures, group projects, and extension activities, gaining experience in data collection and analysis. One example project involves developing budgets for alternative livestock management practices, analyzing costs and benefits to improve industry practices.
Throughout the program, students will receive constructive feedback through assessments and evaluations. These experiences are designed to enhance their problem-solving, communication, and stakeholder-engagement skills, preparing them for careers in industry or further academic pursuits.
Impact and Vision
This program not only aims to prepare students for successful careers but also seeks to address critical challenges in the agricultural and food industries. By fostering research opportunities and experiential learning, Polloshka and her team hope to inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders and problem-solvers. “This experience will help students strengthen their communication, data analytics, problem-solving and stakeholder-engagement skills. Whether students decide to pursue a graduate degree or start their careers in industry after graduating from college, they will be better prepared to succeed and make an impact in their chosen field after participating in this program,” said Polloshka.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu
Categories: Michigan, Education