Jackson resident Jeremie Nothdurft understands hard work. Jeremie is an agribusiness major who has lived and worked on the family farm in southeast Missouri his entire lifetime. And unlike many other persons his age, he has no plans to leave.
Jeremie’s interest in combining agriculture and business stems from his experiences in 4-H and FFA, both of which Jeremie has participated in for quite some time. “Starting in second grade, I was active in 4-H showing poultry, swine and horticulture products,” Jeremie said. “In high school, contest teams in FFA stimulated me to be more competitive in the agriculture world and expand my knowledge.” And that’s what brought Jeremie to Southeast Missouri State.
Jeremie is currently serving an internship at AgriGold Hybrids, where he helps with the overall growth and development of the company. He says one of his favorite things about his internship is the variety in his schedule.
“I do not have a normal day. It varies a lot from day to day,” Jeremie said. “One of my favorite aspects of my job is the freedom and trust that my supervisors show me. I have certain things to do, and it is my responsibility to get those things done on time. I also like the public relations part of my job and talking to farmers.”
When he’s not working, Jeremie enjoys spending time outdoors. Whether he’s catching a fish or catching a football, Jeremie loves to be outside. He spends most of spare time hunting, four-wheeling, and playing water sports such as wakeboarding, knee-boarding and boating.
Jeremie also stays busy in Delta Tau Alpha, the National Agricultural Honor Society, where he serves as the national vice president for the midwestern region and also vice president within his local chapter. He is also active in Farm Bureau, the National Angus Association and his church.
Jeremie is considering going to graduate school, but hasn’t decided for sure yet. He has plans to take over his family’s farm near Gordonville, Mo., which has been in the family for over 100 years.
“There’s nothing else I’d rather do,” said Jeremie.
However, if Jeremie isn’t able to earn a living by farming, he will always have his agribusiness degree as an added security, and that’s why Jeremie has decided to continue his education here at Southeast.
Jeremie’s advice for future high school graduates is to “stay in school, attend college and see it through to the end.” Jeremie says he feels getting a diploma is one of best investments students can make.
A diploma isn’t all Jeremie will take with him when he leaves, however.
Jeremie will leave Southeast with the knowledge and experiences he has gained as a student.
“Southeast has given me an education and understanding to prepare me for the relationships and jobs I will have in the future.”