By Blake Jackson
The Cornell Animal Science Department's Dairy Fellows program is a renowned initiative that has been shaping the future of the dairy industry for over four decades.
This comprehensive program provides students with a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience, develop critical thinking skills, and forge valuable connections within the industry.
The program's core objective is to expose students to every facet of the dairy industry. Through a combination of classroom learning, practical experiences, and international travel, Fellows gain a deep understanding of dairy cattle management, nutrition, reproduction, business operations, and global market dynamics.
A key component of the Dairy Fellows experience is the farm case study. Students work directly with dairy farmers to assess their operations, identify challenges, and develop actionable solutions. This hands-on approach fosters problem-solving skills and prepares students for real-world challenges.
“The case studies are what makes the Fellows experience as valuable as it is,” said Meghan Matt, a former Dairy Fellow, Class of ’15, and owner of Vaill Brothers Farm in Vernon, New York.
“As a student, you’re able to look at the whole business and really analyze it on an owner level. It teaches you extreme professionalism because you’re being trusted with the knowledge of everything about the farm’s business. It teaches you public speaking and communication skills, and really high-level, critical thinking and problem solving. That’s exactly what I use now every day as a farmer.”
The program also emphasizes international exposure. Fellows have the opportunity to travel to countries like Italy to learn about different dairy production systems and cultural practices. These experiences broaden their perspectives and equip them with a global understanding of the industry.
"Faculty and dairy producers recognized there was a need to integrate undergraduate training among those disciplines to ensure that more modern aspects of dairy cattle biology and management were also incorporated in the program," said Michael Van Amburgh, director of the program.
“They created Dairy Fellows to teach students modern-day management principles in dairy, which includes the biology of the cow but also the practical, economic decision-making that’s needed to run a successful business.”
The program's success can be attributed to its strong partnerships with dairy producers, agribusinesses, and faculty members.
By fostering these connections, the Dairy Fellows program continues to be a vital resource for the dairy industry, producing well-rounded graduates who are ready to make a significant impact.
Photo Credit: cornell-university
Categories: New York, Education