Best agricultural science colleges?

I love working with plants and am looking into agriculture as a major. I'm searching for top-notch schools for agricultural science—any recommendations? I'd also like to hear about opportunities they offer outside the classroom, like internships.

Certainly, there are several great options for studying agricultural science. Three schools known for their strong programs are:

1. University of California, Davis (UC Davis): UC Davis' College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences is well-regarded nationally, offering a broad range of studies in agricultural science. Outside the classroom, the university's location in California’s Central Valley gives students access to numerous internships and experiential opportunities in the surrounding agriculture-focused industries. Furthermore, the student farms and gardens provide hands-on learning experiences on-campus.

2. University of Florida: The College of Agricultural and Life Sciences at the University of Florida offers a variety of programs and has a strong research component. The university boasts extension offices across the state, which can provide further hands-on experiences.

3. Purdue University: Purdue's College of Agriculture is also recognized for its quality programs. It offers experiential learning opportunities such as the "Dean's Scholars" program, a competitive program designed for students interested in scientific research.

To gain a better insight into which schools might be a good fit, consider factors like the school's size, location, and the culture of the campus community. Additionally, take into account the specific area of agricultural science you're interested in, as different schools might specialize in different sub-disciplines. For example, a school located in the Midwest might focus more on traditional agriculture, while a school located in California might have more courses related to sustainable agriculture or wine making.

Lastly, to look for internship opportunities, carefully examine each school's career center resources and alumni network. Schools with strong agriculture programs will also likely have strong connections to the industry, meaning plentiful opportunities for internships and employment after graduation.