Final Reflections
November 2024

Before starting my apprenticeship earlier this March I had little to no expectations. I didn’t want to set any expectations for myself because I didn’t know what to expect. Whether that be the type of work I’d be doing, the town I’d be living in, or the people out in northeast Montana. I worried if I did set any expectations I would leave disappointed if it wasn’t all that I imagined it would be. But sure enough it definitely was, far more than what I could have imagined for myself, my dog, and the little barn cat I was given on my birthday even though my mentor didn’t know it at the time. 

During my time here I gained a variety of practical skills and experiences. I was lucky enough to work at such a diverse ranch where I worked with cows, horses, pigs, turkeys, and chickens. Although the work required for each animal varied it allowed me to diversify my skill set and learn so much from each one. Going in depth with what they required for care, feed, and health management. 

I was able to strengthen and build off past experiences when it came to crop management, irrigation systems, and sustainable farming practices that worked for the land out here. I was surprised to learn how different it compared from back home on the east coast. The growing days are shorter and the soil isn’t quite the same but it ended with the same result, crops and lots of it! Working with the wide selection of grains from start to finish was eye opening. I gained an even deeper appreciation for my food and where it came from. 

I was proud of myself when it came to operating all the heavy machinery on the ranch. I had little to no experience with it before getting here but now I can proudly say I’m pretty handy at stacking bales, busting hay, and maneuvering around in a skid steer as if I owned the place. I’m grateful for bale bed pick-ups that make hooking up trailers easier and back up cameras that allow me to park a trailer in a timely manner. 

I’m very appreciative of everything I was able to experience during my time at Sather Ranch. I grew a lot as a worker but more importantly as a person. I formed an unexpected community with the locals of the town, but also those that make the New Agrarian Program. I’m grateful for the effort and work put into making this all happen and allowing people like me a chance to fulfill their dreams of doing this kind of work. Even though the work can be tough and tiresome it’s an experience that will never be forgotten. 

After starting this program, I had no clue what I wanted to do next. I had thoughts of going back to Durham, NC because I knew it would be a safe bet. I had a basic idea of what I wanted in life but I wanted to make sure I would be satisfied. Luckily enough for me this program would lead me in the right direction. Of all the places I could call home little did I know I would consider Glasgow, MT it. 

I ended up meeting a wonderful person in town and finding a great next step for my career plans. Following this apprenticeship I will be serving a term with the Montana Conservation Corps and partnering with the local BLM field office where I hope to continue my education and passion in the management of public lands and resources. I hope to use what I learned in my apprenticeship to become a better steward of the land in both my personal and career goals. 

I’m very thankful for my mentors Jeff and Marisa, my co-workers, and this wonderful team for making this experience what it was. And to myself for learning to be uncomfortable and giving myself grace in this new way of life. 

What contributes to a meaningful life and how do you hope this apprenticeship will help you explore that?
May 2024

Factors contributing to a meaningful life can vary widely from person to person, shaped by individual experiences, beliefs, and values. Personally, I find purpose, passion, connection, personal growth, and making a difference to be essential components in fostering fulfillment and meaning.

Growing up, I often pondered what “my thing” would be—a passion or innate talent that would resonate with me. While I explored various interests, nothing quite captured my sustained enthusiasm. I fretted over the prospect of never finding true satisfaction. Fortunately, my journey led me to agriculture and its diverse realms. The boundless opportunities for learning and career development within this field offered me the chance to explore myriad paths. With each experience and lesson, my affection for agriculture deepened, affirming that this was indeed “my thing”—my calling.

The opportunities afforded by the New Agrarian Program filled me with excitement. This immersive opportunity came at a crucial juncture post-graduation, providing clarity on my next steps. Working alongside knowledgeable mentors instilled a sense of reassurance amidst the uncertainties. Witnessing their passion and dedication to this way of life fueled my own determination to follow suit.

Over the past two months, this program has afforded me invaluable insights into my life’s direction. It has instilled in me a profound sense of purpose. While the apprenticeship may span only eight months, I am confident that the lessons gleaned will endure. Beyond the immediate career prospects, I anticipate lifelong learning, meaningful connections, and opportunities to effect positive change within the agricultural sector.

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