The Talon internship program gives college-aged students a rare opportunity to spend the summer immersed in a working Angus operation, gaining hands-on experience while building real-world skills. Participants develop practical ranching knowledge and strengthen their ability to serve as advocates for the beef industry. 

Applications are currently open for the Angus/Talon Youth Educational Learning Program. Host ranch applications are due Oct. 31, while student intern applications must be submitted by Nov. 18. 

“We are thankful for the vision of Cam Cooper in preparing the next generation of leaders for Angus and the cattle industry,” said Jaclyn Boester, executive director of the Angus Foundation. 

The program was established through the Angus/Talon Youth Educational Learning Program Endowment Fund, created in 2009 by the late Camron “Cam” Cooper of Talon Ranch in Twin Bridges, Montana. Her goal was to provide students with a truly unique educational and leadership experience. 

“It’s exciting to watch our interns grow and flourish each year through the hands-on experiences and mentorship provided by their host ranches,” Boester said. 

Eligible applicants include college sophomores, juniors, seniors and graduate students under the age of 25 who are pursuing an agriculture-related field of study. 

One former participant, Bryan Farkas, completed his internship at Audley Farm in Berryville, Virginia. Entering the program with limited cattle experience, Farkas embraced the challenge and, under the mentorship of Matthew Deacon and Turner Kobayashi, gained valuable experience in cattle management and a deeper appreciation for the beef industry. 

“I go into big things like this kind of nervous, kind of anxious, a little bit scared,” Farkas said. “Just try and shake off the nervousness and just be optimistic, know you’re going to leave that place with a lot more than you came with.” 

Farkas says the internship helped him build lasting friendships, increase his confidence and gain practical knowledge that simply can't be replicated in a classroom environment. 

“Tell me and I forget; teach me and I may remember; involve me and I learn,” Kobayashi said, quoting Chinese philosopher Xun Kuang. “That’s exactly what the Talon program is all about, providing experience to these young people.” 

Funding for Talon intern compensation is provided by the Angus Foundation through the Angus/Talon Youth Educational Learning Program Endowment Fund. 

Angus breeders and students interested in participating in the program can learn more and apply at www.angus.org/foundation/our-mission/youth/talon-youth, or contact Boester at JBoester@Angus.org.