On September 5, College of Menominee Nation met with visiting USDA representatives Stephanie Koziski and Lavina (Vinnie) Panizo to learn about student opportunities for internships and employment in the public sector. The USDA offers both a Pathways and Tribal Scholars program for enrolled Tribal members or students in Tribal colleges."We need indigenous knowledge in the USDA," said Koziski.
Koziski suggested that although many programs have a math and sciences focus, students with any background of study are encouraged to apply. She encouraged students to "follow your hearts" and apply for anything that sounds interesting. "You don't know what you're missing until you've tried," noted Panizo, "You get to see it and bring it back to your community."
Alongside job experience, the programs offer extensive leadership training. "Many students find their voice," said Koziski. The programs offer opportunities for real-life experience with the potential to carry on to full-time jobs anywhere in the United States. Students have many options to do short-term or long-term commitments with various programs. "There's a lot of stuff you don't know till you throw your name in the hat," said Panizo.
Students are encouraged to send Stephanie Koziski an "I'm Interested" e-mail at stephanie.koziski@osc.usda.gov. As Koziski noted, "You have nothing to loose!"
More information can be found on the USDA's website. Check out www.usda.gov and click around the "Mission Areas" for opportunities.
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