Many college undergraduate students in animal sciences and related agricultural fields do not come from a large animal or farming background. As such, they are inherently less familiar with how concepts discussed in foundation and management classes actually are applied on farm.  The course and regional competition for “Dairy Challenge” helps undergraduate students bridge this gap and develop skills needed to prioritize recommendations based on a farmer’s goals. These skills are necessary for success after graduation irrespective of a student’s chosen career.

Through classroom lectures and discussions and visits to 3 to 8 dairy farms per semester, students learn how to evaluate various aspects and management of a dairy operation and develop practical recommendations. Undergraduates then can participate in the Southern or National Dairy Challenge or Academy competitions. This program truly represents the integration of extension and instruction in training future dairy and agricultural leaders. During the farm visits, dairy farmers take pride in training these students and are an integral part of its success. For these undergraduates, they see first hand the application of concepts discussed in courses and learn how to set priorities for practical recommendations based on a producer’s goals and financial situation. 

Many of these students have become veterinarians, pursued graduate degrees related to dairy and are employed in the dairy industry, returned to the farm to manage dairy operations, or have positions within allied dairy industries. The most rewarding part of this program is stepping back and listening to the dialog between students and dairy producers as the students explain concepts to the farmers they visit and the subsequent dialog. This program is truly an excellent way to train the next generation of industry leaders and extends our ability to deliver extension programing to our cliental base.