What should I know about agriculture colleges?

I'm really interested in agriculture and considering going to a college that specializes in this field. Are there particular schools I should look into, and what factors should I consider when choosing an agriculture college?

When choosing an agricultural college, there are several factors you should take into consideration. One key factor is the school's curriculum and the quality of its agriculture program. Different schools might emphasize different sub-fields within agriculture, such as agricultural science, agribusiness, agricultural engineering, or sustainable agriculture. Look into what kind of courses, labs, and field work are included in the program to see if they align with your interests.

You may also want to consider the school's facilities and resources. Many agriculture programs offer hands-on experience in the form of farm or greenhouse work. Does the school have its own farm or partnerships with local farms where you could gain practical experience? Other resources could be research opportunities, extension programs, or connections with industry for internships and job placements.

Location is another thing to contemplate. Do you want to be in a rural, urban, or suburban setting? Each will offer different advantages and disadvantages. For example, an agricultural college in a rural setting might have more land for hands-on farming or livestock experience, while a urban or suburban college might have more access to organizations involved in urban agriculture or policy-making.

As for specific colleges to look into, a few that are known for their agriculture programs include University of California--Davis, Cornell University, Iowa State University, University of Illinois--Urbana-Champaign, and University of Wisconsin--Madison.

Lastly, remember rest of your college experience is important too. Consider the school's overall culture, size, cost, financial aid, extracurricular activities, and other factors that will affect your overall college experience. Be sure to also look into post-graduation support and alumni connections in the industry.