In today's time, people have practically zero knowledge on where their food comes from. They expect for the apples to be ripe, the meat to be fresh, and the aisles to be organized for their convenience. As time progresses and farming becomes a novelty, the profession relies on a small group of young people that have a passion to continue making farming in America possible. An even more rare thought is that a girl could have the aspiration to work in an industry designed for the harshest kind of work. Here is a list of things that I have noticed, being a girl working in agriculture.
1. Life Isn't Fair
I will start with saying that this is not one of those crazy women rights articles that claims the world is cruel and evil because men are in it. So, ladies, please save the whining for someone who cares. I learned a long time ago that if you want something bad enough, which reproductive parts you were blessed with, doesn't matter. Agriculture is a man's industry, but if you are well versed in the subject matter at hand, then you will be confident on your stance.
2. People Will Not Understand
When I start telling people that I am studying Horticulture, while standing there in four inch heels, you cannot imagine the looks I receive. Yes, I am aware that I don't fit the "typical" look of someone interested in farming. But what is typical anymore? I would prefer to be in a cow pasture at 6:00 in the morning than in any office at 8:00 but that is something that you may not understand.
3. Facebook Is Irritating
I love a healthy dose of social media, but come on! As a person in agriculture, I find it offensive when articles are published about farmers hurting their animals. I do realize that some of that kind a cruelty may go on, but I promise, it is far and few between. Most farmers love their animals, they take pride in their facilities, and work hard to provide a quality product for you. The King of All Irritation is the No GMO movement. Maybe, do some actual research on GMOs (not another Facebook article), and you will learn that we have been genetically modifying our vegetables since the beginning of time, with no negative health effects. So overall, take what you read on social media with a grain of salt, you may be surprised by the truth.
The path that I have chosen is probably different from yours, but that is the beauty of it. As a girl in agriculture, I will continue to defeat stereo types with one high-heel shoe at a time.
