Montana State Farm Girl Shines in Northern Ag Internship

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Political Science Major Sheridan Johnson Tries her Voice on Northern Ag Network during the Pandemic Summer

by Courtney Kibblewhite

Billings – In a year marked by chaos and cancellations, Northern Ag Network was blessed to have an energetic college student join the Northern Ag Network team for a summer internship. Sheridan Johnson studies Political Science at Montana State University in Bozeman and is the daughter of Ken and Cyndi Johnson of Conrad, Montana. The Johnson’s farm wheat and pulses and are active community members in Farm Bureau.

Despite her young age, Johnson came to Northern Ag Network with a long list of leadership and personal achievements. Johnson was the Montana State FCCLA President 2016-2017, Montana State FFA President 2017-2018, and has been active in student government and the College of Ag while at university.

Through the internship, Johnson says she learned all about broadcasting and gained skills she couldn’t get in a classroom. “As I progressed through this summer, I was able to produce all of the programs, get comfortable behind the mic and camera, and gain a lot of confidence in my ability to communicate in a way that delivered something to the industry, rather than just for a grade.”

Johnson says college students face a number of challenges in today’s world and it’s tough to find your place with so many opportunities available and aspects to consider. “I think that’s why internships like this are so valuable. I have a lot of interests, but I’m still not sure what I’m going to do after I graduate! I’ve loved learning and while I was here I was able to become familiar with ag broadcasting and felt encouraged to grow. No matter what happens, I know I have support here and a skill set I can lean on for whatever career I end up in.”

Colter Brown, Farm Director remarked that Ms. Johnson exceeded all expectations, “Sheridan did a fantastic job. She really hit the ground running and helped us develop a formal intern program. She was producing radio programs within her first week and her internship culminated with her anchoring a television program. Sheridan is already an asset to the Ag industry and I’m excited to see what the future holds for her.”

Friday July 31, Sheridan Johnson television debut on Wake Up Montana’s Northern Ag Right Now

Since 1975, Northern Ag Network has invited several early career and college students to help out and hone their communication and marketing skills. Owner Taylor Brown says, “In our 45-year history starting with Conrad Burns, I think the Northern Ag Network has employed a total of 20 different Farm Broadcasters, and many of them started just like Sheridan, while they were still in college.  We think it is extremely important to help grow tomorrow’s communicators for Agriculture!”

For those who might be interested in pursuing an internship with Northern Ag Network, Johnson recommends working on your writing and speaking skills and be willing to grow. “I originally was interested in this position because I love to talk. I learned that speaking is important, but it’s even more about serving the farmers and ranchers who listen to our programs and always improving your craft.”

Colter Brown says that any young person who is passionate about agriculture and has a good attitude and willingness to learn would be welcome to reach out. “If you have an ag background and were in 4-H or FFA, you’ve got the experience we’re looking for. It’s never too early to reach out. Sheridan first discussed an internship with me when she was State FFA President 3 years ago.”

To learn more about future Northern Ag Network internships and career opportunities, email your resume and interests to info@northernbroadcasting.com or colter@northernbroadcasting.com or give us a call at 406-252-6661.

 

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