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- Agent’s career path began with hands-on experience in extension
Dani Percle earned the nickname, “The Little Agent,” during her internship with the St. James Parish Extension office. She embraced responsibilities from leading youth programs, managing budgets and handling critical communications with parents.
Percle studied agricultural education and evaluation at the LSU College of Agriculture. She said she considered becoming a teacher, but the internship made her appreciate how much teaching is done in extension.
“It really just made me realize that I can do this. I want to do this for the rest of my life, and I enjoyed every minute,” Percle said of her internship.
This internship, part of the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Internship Program, proved to be a stepping stone in Percle’s career path. “The Little Agent” is now a 4-H agent in Acadia Parish, a role she was able to dive right into following her internships.
“When I started, I didn't have to spend so much time learning because I kind of already knew what to expect,” Percle said. “Every program is different but being able to see how other parishes do things and it's allowed me to take some things that worked well for that parish and try to influence it here.”
During the internship, Percle embraced responsibilities similar to those of a full-time agent. From leading youth programs and handling challenging situations at camps to organizing trips and managing budgets, she gained a well-rounded view of the work.
Reflecting on how the internship prepared her, Percle noted that it gave her a sense of confidence and ease in her work. When she officially started as a 4-H agent, she could seamlessly transition into her duties, building on the insights she gained from observing and participating in various programs.
Percle said the work so far has been fulfilling and fun.
“If you like what you do, you don’t work a day in your life,” Percle said.
Dani Percle served as an intern in the LSU AgCenter St. James Parish Extension office. During her time, she received hands-on training and learned what AgCenter agents do. Photo provided by Percle
While interning in the St. James Parish Extension office, Percle attended 4-H Camp as a chaperone. Photo provided by Percle