Penn State Hosts “Plant Yourself in Ag” Career Day

By Blake Jackson

“Plant Yourself in Ag” Day returned to Penn State this fall with new enhancements aimed at connecting more students to agricultural science. Now in its second year, the event serves as both a learning lab for agricultural education undergraduates and an introduction for high school students to careers and research in agriculture. It was held at Penn State’s Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center at Rock Springs, a hub for innovative research and education.

The immersive, hands-on event highlights Pennsylvania secondary students to diverse agricultural careers while acting as a capstone for agricultural and extension education (AEE) students, who work alongside researchers to deliver programming. The date aligns with National Teach Ag Day, the third Thursday in September.

“This initiative meets the shared priorities of Penn State, agricultural industry stakeholders, sponsors and secondary educators,” said Rita Graef, director of Penn State’s Pasto Agricultural Museum.

“It supports teacher training and workforce development by creating connections between high schools, undergraduates, researchers and industry professionals, while fostering excitement for agriculture as a modern, STEM-rich career field.”

This year, the program doubled the number of high school participants and quadrupled workshops, featuring 11 principal investigators and 29 graduate student presenters. Students engaged in activities such as robotic orchard technology, pollinator and pest identification, and exploring the micronutrients of microgreens.

“We organize our students into cohorts, providing a support system and learning community for them as they move through their education major and into their professional careers," Bethany Mathie, education program specialist. "This event really helped them build a community and get to know each other beyond the classroom.”

The event also included a college and career expo, giving students the chance to explore majors, speak with advisers, and connect with industry sponsors.

“We want students to see that agriculture is dynamic, modern and full of opportunities, no matter their interest,” Graef said. “The day is an opportunity for high school students to see firsthand that there’s a place in the college to meet their passions and interests.”

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