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High school students from across the state stepped out of the classroom and into the fields during the 2025 Supervised Agricultural Education Experience Institute program, which took place during the second week of July.
The camp provided an in-depth introduction to the agricultural industry, highlighting the essential role it plays in North Carolina’s economy. Hosted by the University of Mount Olive and supported by the NC Tobacco Trust Fund Commission, the program allowed students to gain firsthand knowledge of modern agriculture through direct exposure to farms, agribusinesses and industry professionals.
Instead of traditional classroom learning, participants engaged in experiential learning by touring active farms and agribusiness operations. These included crop fields, dairy farms, swine production facilities, and a veteran-owned meat ranch.
“What makes SAE Camp so special is that it doesn’t just teach students about agriculture — it shows them where they belong in it,” said Edward Croom, UMO president.
Students had the opportunity to see firsthand how agricultural products are cultivated, processed, and brought to market. Each location served as a case study for a specific sector of agriculture, allowing students to observe various production methods, technologies and business models.
The camp also focused on agricultural literacy and career awareness. Through workshops and discussions led by advisors, students explored how skills in science, technology and business directly apply to agriculture.
“It’s about showing young people the breadth of opportunity in this industry and helping them find their place in it,” said Edward Olive, UMO’s Lois G. Agribusiness Center director.
Students learned how to document their experiences using the Agricultural Experience Tracker, an essential tool for those pursuing agricultural education and FFA projects. Advisors received professional development training on how to guide students through these experiences following the camp.
“I came from a rural area, but I had never seen the diversity of agriculture like this,” said Leah Canada, a middle school advisor. “The kids light up when they see it all — and I do too.”
The program highlighted the variety of career paths available in agriculture, including farming, animal science, marketing, education and agribusiness management.
“Whether they go on to be farmers, agribusiness professionals, educators, or advocates, this experience plants a seed of purpose that will grow for years to come,” Croom explained.
Croom expressed his appreciation to the NC Tobacco Trust Fund Commission for supporting the week-long overnight camp, which was free for students and teachers.
