Nila Johnson - December 2018
This month we are pleased to feature Nila Johnson of Indiana. Nila joined the DCI Team in 2018. Nila graduated from Purdue University in May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in International Agronomy and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in International Political Relations. Nila is passionate about the agriculture industry on a global level. While at Purdue, Nila had opportunity to study agriculture abroad, leading her to such far off places such as Australia and Cuba. We appreciate Nila and the positive impact she brings to the DCI Contractor Team. Please enjoy reading more about Nila in this month's Contractor Spotlight!
How did you get involved with DCI?
After receiving an email from the Purdue Agronomy Department regarding DCI contractor opportunities, I sent in my resume and references to Sarah Burtch. It's funny, when Sarah called and asked if I could schedule an interview, I told her I was vacationing in Reno, NV at the time - I was celebrating my birthday with my best friend by climbing a mountain. After a wonderful talk with Sarah and hike with my friend, I accepted the position with DCI and began a project with Monsanto!
Tell us about your background:
I recently graduated from Purdue University, while a student there I worked at the Black Cultural Center and Rally Line Call Center to help pay for my education.
What is the best thing about being a DCI Contractor?
I enjoy the flexibility in my schedule and the amazing opportunities to network with various people that being an independent contractor allows.
What would you like to share about your home and family life?
I'm the youngest daughter of two amazing parents who've always pushed me to chase my dreams, no matter the path I may take. My passion for agriculture started early in life, growing up on a tobacco farm and being in active in the FFA through middle and high school.
When I am performing contract work, I am driving:
I currently drive a 2018 Ford Focus. (It was a graduation present to myself!)
What was your first job?
This is my first job out of college, however I started early on by babysitting and being a lifeguard in high school.
What do you do the first hour of the morning?
The first hour of the morning, I check my phone and email, while making a hot cup of tea.
What are your hobbies and interests?
Hobby doesn't do this justice, it's rather a passion of mine. I love to travel, it does not matter the distance! I've been all over the world. I have seen a decent portion of the US, Cuba and Australia!Hobby doesn't do this justice, it's rather a passion of mine. I love to travel, it does not matter the distance! I've been all over the world. I have seen a decent portion of the US, Cuba and Australia!
What is your greatest achievement?
I am extremely independent and being able to say that I've stayed independent after college is a big deal for me. I am extremely independent and being able to say that I've stayed independent after college is a big deal for me.
What are you ordering for your favorite meal?
Sushi or Pho
What is your favorite sports team?
Purdue Boilermakers! Boiler Up, Hammer Down!
What is the happiest memory of your life?
Going to Wilstem Ranch in French Lick, IN and petting a couple of friendly giraffes with my mom!
Tell us about your favorite pet:
I had a cat as a kid, Dixie.
What three people (living or not) would you invite to a dinner party?
My father, Anthony Bourdain, Michelle Obama
Who did you see at the first concert you attended?
Kenny Chesney and Eric Church
What historical figure do you admire most?
Oh, Norman Borlaug!
Do you have a guilty pleasure?
Chinese Food/Crab Ragoons
Tell us something about yourself that most people do not know:
... I am a bit of an open book, I think many people will tell you that.
Where in the world are you dying to visit?
Cape Town, Kenya, and well, just about anywhere in Africa!
What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
"It'll work out, one way or another, it'll all work out. Stop stressing about it"- Diana and Dale Johnson (my parents).
