Lillian Corbett is graduating from Penn State University with a bachelor’s in animal science at the end of the summer. She had some ag exposure in high school and spent time in college doing research on the University’s dairy farm. While finishing her degree over the summer, she wanted to get direct, farm-level experience and exposure to the dairy industry. Lilly is completing an on-farm internship on Canon Dairy in West Middlesex, Pennsylvania.
“I think it’s just a perfect match overall. I was interested in the food side of things and marketing, but also in getting hands-on experience with the cattle,” Lillian shares. “I think they were looking for an intern to jump around and who was willing to learn everything, so it worked out really well for both of us.”
As an intern, Lillian spends her days helping with every area of the farm. On top of daily chores and coursework, she helps with genomic testing, dairy processing, working at the on-farm store, and promoting the farm’s social events.
“I like doing everything. I love working with the cows and helping to manage their health, but I also like making ice cream, processing milk, and helping run events,” Lillian adds. “Being in the store and interacting with the public has been great. I love connecting with people and being able to be a representative for this farm.”
On top of her daily responsibilities, each intern completes their own research project. Lillian has been experimenting with genomic testing on the farm’s youngstock. She has done two rounds of testing over the summer, looking at the data and expected performance. Additionally, she is working on creating standard operating procedures for the creamery and has helped to promote and organize the store and summer events.
Looking towards the future, Lillian plans to start her master’s degree in supply chain management this fall. After graduation she hopes to stay within the dairy industry and is interested in exploring beef on dairy genetics. She is grateful for the exposure to the industry and on-farm experience, recommending this internship to all students.
“Don’t be afraid of moving away and working with people you don’t know,” Lillian shares. “It forces you to come out of your shell, to work hard, and focus on your work and interests for a summer.”
The Dairy Excellence Foundation, the Professional Dairy Managers of Pennsylvania, and the Pennsylvania Dairymen’s Association provide $3,000 grants to support the on-farm internship program each summer. Learn more.