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Crissa Fruechte

FFA alumna learns the value of an internship

Crissa Fruechte

Crissa Fruechte tests a field of corn during her summer internship.



September 2008

While an FFA member at South Dakota’s Webster High School, Crissa Zenk Fruechte found a career interest in agronomy. For her supervised agricultural experience program (SAE), Fruechte owned and operated her own grass, forb, corn and soybean dealership. On a competitive level, she enjoyed a seventh-place finish in the National FFA Agronomy Career Development Event.

As a student at South Dakota State University, she soon realized that education wasn’t enough. In 2006 and 2007, she interned at Monsanto, where she conducted grower visits and interviews to determine customer satisfaction. Because of her internships, Fruechte is now a local field advisor associate for Monsanto, building relationships with farmers and helping them decide what crops to plant.

Q How does your new job relate to your FFA SAE?

A I definitely feel that my SAE sparked an interest in agronomy and agribusiness. My SAE focused on building relationships. In order to make a sale, I needed to have trust and empathy with the local farmers. The relationship-building skills that I learned through FFA are directly related to my career today. It’s again my turn to “be there” for the farmer.

Q Why do you think it’s important for FFA members to gain career experience?

A When you’re looking at your résumé, the education section is only one line. The majority of your résumé is filled with leadership and work experience. That’s why it’s very important to start building your résumé early, even in high school.

Q How have your FFA experiences translated into your career?

A FFA has been a great foundation for beginning my career. It opened my eyes to the global agriculture market and importance of relocating to get a broader experience. Yes, moving away from home is often necessary for the best opportunities! I’m very fortunate that Monsanto appreciates what I have gained from my experiences with FFA. It’s a perfect fit.




Web Extra


Q
Do you have any tips for FFA members who might be interviewing for summer positions?
A
First impressions are very crucial. Look your best, speak clearly and have a firm handshake. Those are definitely “must do’s” in my book. Don’t forget about your résumé. It also needs to be eye appealing, well structured and clean. I also think it’s equally important to know something about the company you’re interviewing with. Check out their website and do some research. 

Q
What college activities do you think prepared you for a career in agriculture?
A
A personal passion for agriculture is first needed. Then join any team environment that challenges you to develop professionally and personally. I’ve enjoyed my experiences with Sigma Alpha Professional Agriculture Sorority, my university’s Little International Ag Exposition, Agriculture Future of America (AFA) and I’ve served as an ambassador for the College of Agriculture and Biological Science. There are so many more organizations to choose from on any campus; the key is to pick some you like and get involved!



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The National FFA Organization is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. Visit ffa.org