Meet Laura Jimenez

A woman sits on the back of a horse.

FAS: Tell me a little about yourself, where you are attending graduate school, and what you are studying.

Laura: I completed my Bachelor of Animal Science at Texas Tech University and am now working on my Master of Agricultural Economics at Texas A&M University. My agricultural passion stems from my family’s dairy and cattle background and my experiences in FFA, where I raised goats and explored policy. This interest grew into a focus on international agricultural trade, particularly during a trade show internship where I helped small businesses develop export strategies, and understanding the impact of trade on agriculture. My family legacy and these experiences have shaped my focus on international trade and policy in agricultural economics.

FAS: Why did you apply for the USDA International Agricultural Fellowship Program (IAFP)?

Laura: Through the IAFP, I want to significantly contribute to agriculture by advocating for farmers and ranchers. I intend to influence policy and enhance export opportunities, using this fellowship to shape initiatives that globally benefit agriculture. I aspire to merge my agricultural passion with international diplomacy, fostering industry-wide positive change, and sustainable growth for the global agricultural community.

FAS: As part of IAFP you’ve completed one of your two internships with FAS, what did your internship entail and what was your greatest takeaway?

Laura: The most significant takeaway from my first internship was understanding the critical role of market exploration for cooperators and agricultural businesses, the need for diversifying export markets, and the importance of establishing direct connections for effective export growth. During my FAS Trade Mission and Shows internship, I promoted trade missions and analyzed demographics, notably supporting Under Secretary Tayor during the Chile Agribusiness Trade Mission in Santiago. There, I interviewed Chilean buyers, U.S. exhibitors, and participants, producing testimonials and partnership videos highlighting U.S.-Chile relations. I learned about the Chilean agricultural industry, from processing to APHIS-supported port inspections. Collaborating with videographers, I created promotional content to showcase U.S. export diversity and encourage future trade. 

FAS: What are you looking forward to with your next FAS internship and what do you hope to learn or experience?

Laura: I’m anticipating my FAS internship in Lima, Peru. I’m excited to explore Peruvian culture and its agricultural sector. This opportunity will allow me to understand the collaboration between the United States and Peru, focusing on enhancing agricultural exports and mutual growth. I’m keen to learn about FAS programs in Peru and their local impact. I look forward to field visits and experiencing Peruvian agricultural practices firsthand from farmers. This immersion will deepen my understanding of Peru’s agricultural dynamics and its significance in Latin American development.

FAS: Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years and 20 years?

Laura: In 5 years, I aspire to complete my first assignment as a Foreign Service Officer, focusing on growing trade relations and specializing in agricultural trade promotion. Leveraging my experiences abroad, I plan to continue working internationally, enhancing global trade networks. Twenty years from now, I envision myself being a Senior Foreign Service Officer, leading agricultural market opportunities worldwide and traveling with my family. My career will have allowed me to travel, learn new languages, build lifelong friendships, and understand diverse agricultural practices globally.