The Transition From a Graduate Student to Extension Agronomist.

Beginning as an extension agronomist has specific challenges and surprises for those coming directly from graduate school. The objective of this presentation is to highlight the experiences and challenges adjusting to extension work in Southwest Kansas. Many graduate students see the daily routines of research and teaching faculty, but do not interact as often with extension personnel. This creates a disconnect between what the students anticipate and what is actually waiting for them in extension. Alternatively, there are some distinct benefits of extension that are not realized by students. This presentation is focused toward graduate students that are moving into extension as well as to those currently in extension that have forgotten the challenges. The many factors that draw people into extension and retain faculty long-term will also be discussed.