Digital Overcast

Technology and the Future of Agriculture

Kien Lai | AG 101 | 06/06/02 | California State Polytechnic University, Pomona

Agriculture Technology

How will you apply what you have learned in this Agriculture class to your personal / professional life in the future?

Agriculture was portrayed as the stereotypical farmer in a field to me prior to taking this class. Now, at the end of the ninth week, the definition of agriculture has manifested into becoming so much more than my previous ignorant notions. As defined in class, agriculture encompasses the production, distribution, marketing, processing, advertising, financing, and consumption of food. The knowledge that I have acquired over the course of the quarter has become a vital tool by assisting me in gaining a competitive advantage within the field of marketing as I pursue my professional career goals in obtaining a degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing management and ultimately working for an advertising agency after graduation.

I strongly believe that what I have learned in class will be reflected in future agricultural promotional advertising campaigns that I may actively become involved in producing. Various projects may include the native Californian avocado, dairy products such as milk and cheese, and many other related agricultural products. Through my greater understanding of agriculture and how it is a part of our daily lives spanning from the farmer to the general consumer, I will be able to create a more effective advertising campaign through the application of what I have learned in class.

Concepts and ideas that have greatly influenced my perception of agriculture extend over several sections. An important concept that I truly felt was enlightening dealt with social structures having the potential of inhibiting the prosperity and productivity of a country. How a change in a political government can mean the difference between a nation in starvation and one that is self-sustaining. Another interesting concept is the possible reasons that contribute to overpopulation. Such motives may steam from a high value placed on children, the use of labor, and cultural and religious influences to name a few.

Given what I have learned about the severity of these issues and why they occur, I have gained a sense of cultural sensitivity and understanding, which will certainly be reflected in my approach in developing promotional advertising campaigns in both domestic and foreign markets. This will also aid in determining if the images and content are appropriate and may even be a determining factor in deciding wither or not to enter the market in the first place.

In terms of how I will be able to apply what I have learned to my personal life in the near future, I will wash all fruits and vegetables to ensure that they are free of any pesticides and other agricultural chemicals as a precaution in potentially becoming sick. Moreover, I can inform and educate family members and close friends of the proper methods of storing, handling, and preparing food. In addition, risk factors concerning food safety such as harmful bacteria and preventive actions that can be taken in reducing the chances of getting food poisoning based on the presentation given on food safety may be shared.