Looking back: A Q&A with CAFES marketing and communications intern Emilie Strahm
Hello! My name is Emilie Strahm. I grew up on a generational farm outside of Sabetha, Kansas. I was recruited to the equestrian team at SDSU, which is what brought me here. I decided to step away from the team this year, so I could fully dive into freelance photography! I was an intern for the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences marketing and communications team during the spring 2026 semester.
What was your favorite project you completed this semester?
Strahm: My favorite project was definitely getting to shoot the Jackrabbit Stampede Rodeo and then creating a recap video! Growing up in the industry, rodeo has always been close to my heart, so covering it for CAFES was an incredible opportunity!
What advice would you give to the next intern?
Strahm: Have fun and work hard! You will have some pretty amazing co-workers that make work fun and enjoyable. Also be willing to try new things and software programs. You have great mentors there to help!
What’s next for you in life?
Strahm: I’m moving back to the town I went to high school in, Seneca, Kansas, and then I am going to be a freelance photographer and videographer! I am shooing content for lots of horse shows, livestock shows, weddings and whatever else I may come across!
If aliens landed on campus and you were selected to explain the college to them in under five minutes, what would you say and which staff and faculty members would you bring to the meeting?
Strahm: I would say that it’s a college focused on the importance of feeding people, protecting the environment, and improving others' lives through science, agriculture and innovation. CAFES gives its students hands-on experience in areas like animal science, crops, communications, business and environmental sustainability while preparing them for their careers. I’d say the best part of CAFES is the supportive community and staff, as well as students that work together really well to solve problems and create new ideas. I would bring a mix of research professors, student success staff, agriculture communications faculty and student leaders to represent all aspects of the college.
From the team:
Thank you for your contributions to our team, Emilie! Congratulations on your graduation and good luck in what’s next for you. We are rooting you on!
If you are an SDSU student and have an interest in working for the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences marketing and communications team, please email Carter Schmidt for more information.
