Intern Spotlight: JD Smith
As the summer draws to an end, we bring recognition to our six incredible interns. Learn more about field services intern JD Smith and his experiences with Farm Credit.
“As an intern, you never know what you might expect, see, or encounter at Farm Credit,” says JD Smith, field services intern.
“When I get to the office in the morning, I check my emails and start calling farmers to come out and evaluate collateral they have listed down. While going to the farms, you often visit with the customers and really get to know them. I have learned many things from just listening to the farmers talk about the field of agriculture.”
JD Smith is a senior at the University of Arkansas, studying ag business and minoring in animal science. This summer, he joined Farm Credit of Western Arkansas as a field services intern covering Northwest Arkansas, visiting Farm Credit members across the region and conducting chattel evaluations. JD is from Berryville, AR and operated out of the Tontitown branch, covering the northwest Arkansas region.
JD grew up on his grandparents' farm, where he worked cattle, cut hay, and maintained their chickens alongside his family. Some of his hobbies include hunting, watching the hogs, going to concerts, and spending time with his friends.
One Farm Credit member that JD spent time with maintains acreage in far western Arkansas. While riding over creeks, along country roads, and through river bottoms, JD conversed with the member about everything from politics to the Razorbacks and cattle prices. As a field services intern, conversation is a valuable skill that JD exercises often.
When he graduates, JD plans to continue working within the field of agriculture. He notes that his internship has given him insight into professional and agricultural business, confirming his plan to work within the industry. Not only did his internship introduce JD to a variety of different policies and positions within the organization, but to valuable connections as well.
“The best part about the Farm Credit internship is hands down the people,” he said. “I have worked in many different offices and met many people within the Farm Credit family, and they have all been very kind and helpful. I’ve visited many farmers with vibrant personalities, and spending time with them has helped me gain a deeper understanding of the agricultural industry.”
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