Earning an associate degree in plant science and technology is a great first step. But do you know you can start on your resume before you even graduate? If you want to work in agriculture, horticulture, environmental science, or research, real-world experiences and technical skills can help you amplify your resume.
This article will walk you through practical ways to strengthen your plant science and technology degree so you’re ready for your next step.
Work as an Intern or Volunteer
One of the best ways to stand out with an associate degree is by getting practical work experience as an intern or volunteer. Internships aren’t just for four-year students; many employers and programs welcome every kind of student for real work in the field or lab.
Working as an intern or a volunteer, you’ll get to show employers that you:
- Are motivated and take initiative
- Have on-the-job experience
- Know how to use tools and equipment
- Can take on more responsibility faster
An internship or volunteer work can get your foot in the door into the field of plant science and technology, but finding these opportunities can be a little difficult. At BYU-Idaho, the Internship and Career Services help students find the right internship for them.
Participate in Research and Projects
Even if your program doesn’t require it, getting involved directly in research or plant science projects can look really good on your resume. Any sort of experience you have in the lab or on the field will help you stand out in a pool of applicants.
Research and projects can help you:
- Learn how to problem solve
- Develop technical and lab skills
- Find opportunities to present your ideas
- Improve your communication skills
According to US News, research participation is an asset for undergraduate students. Even if it’s just part of a class or you sign up to join a research team at school, this experience can boost your resume.
Join Clubs and Academic Societies
Getting involved in your school’s clubs and academic societies related to plant science or agriculture can help you make connections, build teamwork skills, and show your passion to future employers or schools.
Here at BYU-Idaho, plant science and technology students have plenty of academic societies to choose from. Here’s just a few:
- Metus Topiara Gardening Society: This organization provides a place where students and community members can learn about plant and garden care. They sponsor workshops and service projects for students to gain more experience.
- Ag Tech Society: This student-led organization is dedicated to promoting innovation and technology in agriculture. Join other students in workshops, events, and industry partnerships.
- Agronomy Society: This society is focused on agronomy and its application to sustainable crop production. With networking opportunities, educational programs, and hands-on experiences, students can prepare for their future careers.
Take Advantage of Career Services
A lot of colleges and universities offer services designed to help students prepare for their careers, even if you’re earning a two-year degree. These services can connect you to potential employers, alumni, and professors who know the field.
If you already have a pretty good idea of what you want to do for work, you can attend career service events like:
- Career Fairs: Employers come to campus to recruit students for jobs, internships, and apprenticeships.
- Resume Workshops: Career services employees teach you how to frame your experiences to stand out to employers.
- Networking Events: You can connect to alumni and professionals in horticulture, agriculture, and environmental science.
The career services at your school might offer something different, but you’ll be able to build a better resume, prepare for interviews, and identify employers that you might want to work for. To find out more about the career services at BYU-Idaho, check out the Career Center website.
Earn Certifications
Many employers want their applicants to have industry certifications. Job requirements will vary from employer to employer, and some might ask for certifications that aren’t even related to plant science.
If you want something that will stand out on your resume, try earning certifications like:
- Certified Crop Advisor: You’ll need at least three years of experience before earning this certification, but it’s a great one to have if you’re interested in conserving natural resources in agriculture.
- GIS Certificate: Geographic Information Systems is an emerging technology that allows you to build environmental maps for agriculture. BYU-Idaho and many other universities offer this certificate.
- Project Management: While unrelated to agriculture, this certificate can show your employer that you can take on more responsibility and that you’re fit for management roles.
Get Started Today
Graduating with an associate degree in plant science and technology might feel like the first step to finding a career, but, in reality, you can get started right away. While you’re in school, be sure to find internships, participate in research, join academic societies, utilize your career services, and earn certifications. All of these can give you a head start in the job market before you even graduate.
Citations
BYU–Idaho — Internships
U.S. News & World Report — How Undergraduates Benefit From Doing Research
BYU–Idaho — Applied Plant Science Societies
BYU–Idaho — Career Center
Science Societies — Become a Certified Crop Adviser (CCA)
GISDegree.org — Is a GIS Certificate Worth It?
BYU–Idaho — GIS (Geographic Information Systems) Program
BYU–Idaho — Project Management Program