Capitol News

Michigan State University (MSU) has received a grant exceeding $700,000 to offer undergraduate students research opportunities in agricultural economics. The program, led by Assistant Professor Jeta Rudi Polloshka from MSU's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, focuses on data analytics related to agricultural finance, food safety, and food insecurity.

Students selected for the program will collaborate with peers and faculty on research projects. They will present their findings at the Agricultural and Applied Economics Association’s annual summer conference. The initiative aims to equip students with skills applicable in the workforce.

The project is supported by the Research and Extension Experiences for Undergraduates grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture. It is part of 17 projects totaling $11.6 million aimed at enhancing undergraduate research experiences.

Polloshka is collaborating with Auburn University, Oregon State University, and the University of Georgia to establish this exchange program model. "This program offers undergraduate students the opportunity to work in groups with peers and faculty at other academic institutions to research important, industry-relevant, and policy-relevant topics," Polloshka stated.

The selection process invites applications each fall. Sixty students will be accepted into five cohorts over five years, starting January 2025 through January 2029. Recruitment targets underrepresented and economically disadvantaged students, including those transferring from community colleges.

Participants will be paired with faculty advisors matching their interests and have access to mentors from the food and agriculture industry for career guidance. The curriculum includes lectures, group projects, data analytics training, and national conference presentations.

An example project involves developing partial budgets for alternative livestock management practices focused on disease management, housing options, and feeding routines. Students assess cost-benefit differences between practices.

Throughout the program duration until 2029, participants receive feedback via surveys and evaluations aimed at preparing them for careers addressing significant challenges in agriculture and food industries.

Polloshka emphasized that "this experience will help students strengthen their communication, data analytics, problem-solving and stakeholder-engagement skills." She expressed hope that it would lead to more undergraduate research opportunities.