Shared Values Bring Emily Freese to Paulsen for Summer Internship Program

As she explored summer internship possibilities, Iowa State University senior Emily Freese viewed a role at Paulsen as a natural fit. "When you find a company that shares the same values as you, why wouldn't you pursue it?" says Emily, who is set to graduate next spring with a double major in agricultural communications and animal science.

She joined the Account Service team earlier this month and looks forward to further developing her skillset within the summer internship program at Paulsen. "I want to become a more well-rounded individual when it comes to agricultural communications," she explains. 

"Emily has really hit the ground running," says Alicia Heun, Director of Engagement at Paulsen and a fellow Iowa State alumna. "She has already demonstrated strong initiative backed by a high level of knowledge and experience. We're excited to have her on our team this summer."

Emily grew up on a sheep operation in Carroll, Iowa, as the oldest among four children. She also spent a good portion of her childhood participating in 4-H and FFA activities, two educational organizations that laid the foundation for a potential career in agricultural communications. "I was super involved in 4-H and FFA and did a lot of volunteering," she says. "I learned that I enjoy telling the stories (of agriculture) and getting to meet people."

She has already put that flair for storytelling to work: Emily started a photography and videography venture, Open Fields Media, which places a strong focus on agriculture and life in rural America.

Her experiences at Iowa State have been enriched by the deep connections the school has with the agricultural community in Ames and across the state. "They have a lot of opportunities to get out in the real world," she explains.

Last summer, Emily interned in a communications role for Empirical Foods, a beef processor located just north of Sioux City in Dakota Dunes. She is looking forward to building upon that experience in an agency environment where she will interact with a broad range of agricultural products and services.

"Obviously, the networking experiences are valuable," she says, reflecting on the strong connections Paulsen possesses across the ag industry. "I also hope to become more confident making strategic recommendations."