Fink Interns at Stockyards Ag Experience – Gabby Fink, a South Dakota State University senior, spent her summer interning in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Fink is a student member of NAFB.
Fink grew up on a cow-calf operation north of Plankinton, South Dakota, where she was introduced to agriculture at a young age.
“I helped out on the cattle operation by working calves and checking cattle out in the pasture,” Fink said. “I also showed Hereford cattle and crossbred lambs in 4-H. I also rode horses for ranch work and leisure.”
She was introduced to the idea of agricultural communications as a senior in high school.
“I shadowed a cattle ultrasound technician in my area, and I decided to write about my experience,” Fink said. “My piece was published in the Tri-State Neighbor, and that’s how I got my start in ag communications.”
Her interest led to her majoring in agricultural communications at South Dakota State University. During the summer of 2024, she interned for the Stockyards Ag Experience as an education and marketing intern.
“One of my main duties was social media. I created content that promoted the stockyards experience, advocated for agriculture, and educated the public about the agricultural industry,” Fink said. “The social media posts would coincide with different themes throughout the summer like the Olympics.”
She also worked on a social media campaign promoting the dairy industry during June, which is National Dairy Month.
“We hosted the ‘Create-a-Cone Contest,’ where kids could create a flavor of ice cream,” Fink said.
Fink also attended events throughout the summer that revolved around agriculture and educating people about the industry.
“I got to attend the Ag PhD Field Day as a representative for the Stockyards Ag Experience,” Fink said. “Much of my internship was spent talking to stockyard visitors about their history, their impact on South Dakota’s agricultural industry, and answering any questions they might have. My favorite part of the internship was educating the public about agriculture and watching those educational events become a reality after assisting with planning them.”
