Kylie Harlan, a Texas Tech University student with a bachelor’s in agricultural communications and current master’s degree pursuant, realized her passion during her academic career and put it to action through her internships and communications work. 

Harlan is originally from Sherman, Texas, where she was involved in her local FFA chapter. Through competitive events like showing livestock and LDE and CDE contests, Harlan found a passion for the agriculture industry. 

“I kind of found a little bit of a place and a passion within the industry,” Harlan said.

Harlan settled her sites on Texas Tech, the Davis College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, and the agricultural communications degree program. Through her time here, Harlan wanted a challenge that would stretch her skillset and decided to participate in the Davis College government internship. Harlan interned with then-Congressman and Ranking Member of the Committee on Ways and Means, Kevin Brady. 

“[Brady] exposed me to some great stuff, him and his staff, and some issues that I really didn’t have much experience with prior,” Harlan said. “I was then able to see these issues on the federal level.” 

Harlan was also the marketing and communications intern for the Texas Peanut Producers. Her role in this position consisted of managing the website, attending trade show conventions, managing the social media accounts and creating original content for the company. Another large part of her duties was writing and distributing the organization’s newsletters. 

“The executive director,  Shelley [Nutt] is phenomenal and was super supportive, and really gave me creative rein over everything that I wanted to do,” Harlan said. 

Harlan said that these experiences have led her to find a passion in communications. After completing her master’s degree, she plans to work in advocacy, promoting the work of American agriculturists. 

“I just think it’s really rewarding to help and support those who are feeding and clothing the whole world,” Harlan said.