SEMO Agriculture Graduate Turns Internship Experience into Full-Time Marketing Career

Canning, from southern Illinois, graduated this spring with degrees in agribusiness: animal science and agricultural communications from SEMO's Department of Agriculture.

Raised on her family's cow-calf and row crop operation, Canning said agriculture has always been a central part of her life. At SEMO, she combined that background with opportunities in leadership, communications and student involvement.

During an internship with Wehmeyer Seed Company, Canning coordinated large-scale events, managed social media and public relations efforts, and helped create marketing materials for agricultural brands. The experience ultimately led to a full-time job offer.

At SEMO, Canning also served as a student worker for the Department of Agriculture and College of STEM, where she created social media content and supported departmental events. She held leadership roles in the Collegiate Cattlemen's Association and SEMO Marching Band, serving as both a section leader and senior assistant.

Canning said the relationships she built with faculty mentors helped shape both her college experience and career path.

"I've had some of the best professors and mentors who truly care about their students' success," she said. "They want to help you grow and connect you with opportunities that can take you far. My journey has been shaped by the people who made SEMO feel like home."

As she prepares to begin her career in agricultural marketing and communications, Canning said SEMO helped her build the confidence and experience needed for what comes next.

"Without SEMO, I wouldn't have been able to build the experience and connections needed to flourish both academically and professionally," she said.

At SEMO, students in agriculture gain hands-on industry experience, leadership opportunities and professional connections that prepare them for careers across the agricultural industry. Learn more at semo.edu/agriculture.

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