How to Get an Internship in Agriculture

Quick answer: To get an internship in agriculture, decide which part of the field interests you (research, production or something else), build a tailored resume, research companies, institutions and nonprofits that take interns, and network. Southeast Asia, especially Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia, has a large agriculture sector. Be ready to apply to many places, and stay persistent.

The agriculture industry is one of the most interesting industries. It is constantly evolving and it's an industry that will provide numerous opportunities for the future. If this is an industry you are particularly interested in, we encourage you to read further. If you are not, we still encourage you to read further as it could potentially change your mind!

If you are looking for a new challenge and a new experience, an internship in agriculture could be it. This post covers what agriculture is, why it matters, and the steps you can take to get an agricultural internship. So without further ado, let’s get down to business.

What is agriculture?

Before we get into the wonderful world of agriculture, we first have to explore what it actually is. Agriculture refers cultivation of soil, crop plantations, and the raising livestock for food, fuel, and other products. In the world of agriculture, the soils are prepared especially for planting, the sowing and growing of crops as well as the raising of livestock.

Your famous examples of major crops grown across the globe include cereals, legumes, and root vegetables. Regarding livestock, you must be familiar with the likes of cattle, chickens, pigs, and sheep.

Nowadays, there are a variety of types of agriculture available from small-scale subsistence farming to large-scale commercial farming. However, with the constant advancement of technology, the agricultural sector has looked drastically different in the last decade.

To cope with the demand of an increasing population, the industry needs to be more efficient and productive than ever before. Thankfully, the industry is constantly evolving and new technologies and techniques are being developed to meet the growing demand and population.

Why does agriculture matter?

Agriculture plays a massive role in our world. Many countries around the world rely on their agricultural sector, the industry is crucial to economic growth and it accounts for roughly 4% of the global gross domestic product (GDP). This share can reach roughly 25% for some of the least developed countries.

While agriculture is necessary for the survival of humanity, it does have a huge impact on the environment. The agriculture industry is responsible for roughly 18% of the global greenhouse gas emissions by sector, which is more than all transportation combined. This has therefore raised numerous environmental issues within the industry as it is a significant contributor to climate change.

As the world’s population is projected to reach 9.7 billion people by the year 2050, the role of agriculture in feeding the world has never been more important. The industry is constantly evolving and the demand for new technologies and practices will be needed in the future.

Internship in Agriculture (Source: Jamie Fenn on Unsplash)

How do you get an agricultural internship?

If you have decided that this is an industry you would like to gain more experience then that is great! As we mentioned, the impact of agriculture cannot be understated and the industry is in need of the next generation of talents to come up with the development of new practices and technologies for maximum productivity and efficiency.

So here is a step-by-step guide to how you can get an internship in agriculture:

1. Determine your interests and goals. The agriculture industry is a big industry and you can go in many directions. You, therefore, have to ask about the type of internship you want to pursue. Are you interested in the research, production or another aspect of the industry? Determining your specific interest within the field can help you find the right opportunity.
2. Build your resume. In order to apply for positions, you will need to have a resume. It is important that you tailor your resume to the position you are applying for as well as the company. Include relevant experiences if you have any relevant coursework and other extracurricular activities. If you lack experience, then you can do some voluntary work or part-time job as it will be something you can put down on your resume.
3. Research companies. Research companies that you would be interested in working for and look if they are open to having interns. Depending on what specific area of agriculture you want to focus on, places you should consider include: agricultural companies and organizations, government agencies and nonprofits as well as the likes of research institutions and universities.
4. Network. Nowadays, networking has become more important than ever before. Take the chance to reach out to people in the industry, people you look up to perhaps. Connecting with industry professionals, professors or even alumni can open the door to opportunities you didn't know even existed!
5. Don’t give up! You have to be persistent in your search. You will likely go through a lot of rejections before a company is willing to accept you. It is important to not get discouraged during this time and that you keep searching and applying. Eventually, you will find a company that will be the right fit. Just because one door closes, does not mean another will too!

Where are the best places for agriculture internships?

When it comes to doing an agriculture internship, there are some areas in the world that stand out more than others. Countries that are known for their agriculture are those that have a lot of space to grow crops and raise livestock.

In Southeast Asia, popular countries that have a reputable agriculture industry include the likes of Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia. In Thailand for example, the agriculture industry is responsible for about 8.5% of the country’s total GDP, whereas in Vietnam and Indonesia it is roughly 12.5% and 13% respectively. These shares change from year to year, so check the latest figures at the sources linked here.

So if you are looking to do an internship in this particular sector, those three countries will offer you the best opportunities to gain valuable experience.

Closing remarks

So there you have it! An internship in the agricultural sector is a great way to gain valuable experience in this ever-growing industry. There are plenty of opportunities especially in Southeast Asia to partake in an agriculture internship.

If you are looking to do an internship in the agricultural sector, you can apply with AIP here.

FAQs

Do I need a degree to get an internship in agriculture?

Not always. Many agricultural internships suit students, graduates and career changers. A relevant course helps, and so does any volunteer or part-time experience you can put on your resume.

Where can I find agriculture internships?

Look at agricultural companies and organizations, government agencies, nonprofits, research institutions and universities. Networking with professionals, professors and alumni can also open doors you did not know existed.

Which countries are good for agriculture internships in Asia?

Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia all have a sizeable agriculture sector. With AIP, agriculture and food is a listed field in the Philippines; for other destinations, check our industries page and tell us your goals so we can look for a fit.

Are agriculture internships paid?

Most international internships are unpaid, so plan your budget for food, local transport and living costs.

How early should I start applying?

Finding your placement takes about 8 weeks from your deposit, so apply with a start date at least 12 weeks away. If your start date is less than 12 weeks away, you need AIPx Fast Track, as finding a placement with AIP takes about 8 weeks from your deposit. If you search on your own, expect several rejections and keep applying.

Want to see what an internship in Asia could look like? Browse our internship industries or destinations.