IL Corn Helps Intern to Grow

Over the past 16 weeks Peter Metivier has been an intern for IL Corn while still attending. Here is a little bit about his growth with IL Corn.

Unlike other FFA members, Peter didn't grow up on a farm. He got involved with FFA because of his previous 4-H experiences. Currently the IL FFA Section 9 President, he coordinates over 13 highschool ag programs in central Illinois. Through FFA, he was able to travel with IL Corn alongside the rest of the Illinois Association FFA State Officer Team to Washington D.C. for Corn Congress. This life changing experience introduced him to IL Corn and his soon to be mentor Lindsay Mitchell (Director of Communications & Marketing for IL Corn).

"This experience has been eye-opening to see how a small professional staff can make such a huge difference for farmers and the world," says Peter. "From sitting in on board meetings to having one-on-one conversations with the incredible people that make up the IL Corn team, I have not only grown in my agricultural knowledge, but also understand the importance of advocating for farmers."

As the communication and marketing intern, he gained a new perspective into a field he was interested in. Completing press releases, designing graphics, and writing articles were a small part of his two projects while at IL Corn. "These tasks often pushed me to venture out of my comfort zone, but the skills I have gained from these experiences are ones that will absolutely help me in my future endeavors. I am incredibly appreciative of all the opportunities and experiences that IL Corn has given me," said Peter.

What's next?

Peter is applying to colleges in Illinois and hopes to enroll at the University of Illinois to major in Agriculture Communication with a minor in Spanish. He hopes to use both his knowledge from FFA and IL Corn for future internships or even to travel internationally.