What does an Agricultural Economist do? Dr. Maryfrances Miller NMSU

Summary

Frannie Miller, an assistant professor in agricultural economics, shares her journey from wanting to be a veterinarian to exploring the fascinating world of agriculture policy. She highlights the diverse nature of her job, from working with crops and dairy farmers to studying natural resource systems. Miller emphasizes the importance of flexibility in agricultural economics and advises students to grow intellectually by mastering statistics and math. She encourages young professionals to focus on their own career vision rather than societal expectations and reminds them that the future job market is constantly evolving.

Takeaways

• 😀 Frannie Miller is an assistant professor in agricultural economics and agriculture business.
• 😀 She became interested in agriculture after working for the Department of Agriculture and learning about agricultural issues.
• 😀 Frannie initially thought of becoming a veterinarian but found a passion for the economic aspects of agriculture.
• 😀 One of the best parts of her job is the diversity of activities, from research to field visits with farmers.
• 😀 Agricultural economics is not just about data and models—it's also about real-world aspects like crop growth, dairy farming, and natural resource systems.
• 😀 The degree in agricultural economics offers a lot of flexibility, with opportunities to engage in various agricultural fields.
• 😀 Real-world issues tackled by agricultural economists include water conservation, feral swine damage, and animal disease management.
• 😀 Frannie's first piece of advice to students is to relax and realize that most career paths are flexible and will evolve over time.
• 😀 She encourages students to grow intellectually, emphasizing the importance of developing skills in statistics, math, and reading.
• 😀 Frannie advises students to consider marketable skills when choosing a career and to not focus on traditional stereotypes of what an economist should look like.
• 😀 The key to success in agricultural economics is picturing yourself in your ideal job and envisioning what aspects of that job excite you.

Q & A

What initially sparked Frannie Miller's interest in agricultural economics?

Frannie Miller's interest in agricultural economics began when she was a student and initially wanted to be a veterinarian. However, after working for the Department of Agriculture and learning about current agricultural issues, she became fascinated by how agricultural policies impact farmers.

What is Frannie Miller's favorite part of her job?

Frannie Miller's favorite part of her job is the lack of a typical day. The combination of agriculture and economics means that her work is varied, involving research, field visits, and diverse tasks like observing crop growth, talking to dairy farmers, and studying natural resource systems.

How does agricultural economics combine research with practical agriculture?

Agricultural economics combines research on economic data with practical agriculture through activities such as observing crops, visiting farms, and analyzing issues like animal feed or environmental concerns. This diversity provides flexibility in the degree and career options.

What are some unique research topics Frannie Miller has explored?

Frannie Miller has explored several interesting research topics, including the potential of feeding guar to dairy heifers, conserving water by changing crops, the damage caused by feral swine on golf courses, and composting dead animals to study animal diseases.

What advice does Frannie Miller offer to students considering a career in agriculture economics?

Frannie Miller advises students to relax and not feel pressured to have everything figured out. She emphasizes the importance of growing intellectually, learning statistics, reading, and improving math skills. These abilities will provide flexibility in career choices.

What is Frannie Miller's perspective on the changing job market?

Frannie Miller points out that many of the jobs in today's workforce didn't exist when current professionals were in school. She stresses that the job market is dynamic, and there are many opportunities to explore as industries evolve.

How does Frannie Miller suggest students should approach the workforce after school?

Frannie Miller suggests that students should look at what skills are valued in the marketplace. Understanding the demand for certain skills can help guide career choices and ensure they are well-prepared for the workforce.

What gender-related advice does Frannie Miller give for those entering the field of economics?

Frannie Miller notes that there are not many women in economics departments, but she encourages women to pursue careers in the field. She advises focusing on personal goals and imagining one's own life as an economist, rather than conforming to traditional perceptions of the profession.

What advice did Frannie Miller receive that she considers valuable?

Frannie Miller shares the valuable advice she received, which is to imagine what kind of life you want to have, rather than thinking about what others expect from you. This approach helps shape a more fulfilling career vision, particularly for those interested in economics.

How does Frannie Miller view the connection between intellectual growth and career flexibility?

Frannie Miller believes that intellectual growth is essential for career flexibility. The more students can strengthen their intellectual abilities—whether through statistics, reading, or math—the more flexible and adaptable they will be in their careers.