Podcast tells Adam Ingrao’s unique path to study entomology and serve fellow veterans

Adam Ingrao was recently interview by Spartan Podcast about his varied experiences that led him to be a doctoral entomology student and founder of a new outreach program for veterans.

Adam Ingrao was recently interview by Spartan Podcast about his varied experiences that led him to be a doctoral entomology student and founder of a new outreach program for veterans. Ingrao arrived at MSU with a Plant Science Recruitment Fellowship. During his first year of study, he identified Zsofia Szendrei’s Vegetable Entomology Lab as the best fit for his interest in sustainable agriculture. Prior to coming to MSU, he served in the Army and remains dedicated to his “brothers” in the service. As a disabled vet, Ingrao felt compelled to find a way to bridge his entomology studies with a means to help other vets transition from active duty to new careers. He says many veterans have a viable career option in agriculture and that it is a natural fit for them.  “Transitioning from active military personnel to a farmer is not that big of a stretch.”

Now Ingrao balances his doctoral studies with his veteran outreach coalition, which has become part of the Michigan Food and Farming Systems organization based at MSU. He helps veterans understand why agriculture is a good option and how they can explore their options.

Listen to the 26-minute podcast to hear why MSU entomology, why the military and how he rolled it all together to be happy and productive preparing for his future in sustainable agriculture research: “In the field: Fighting for veterans with Adam Ingrao.”

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