Riley Francis has been very active in the agriculture industry and has had experiences most could only dream of, especially for her age. Riley took an internship in Russia working on a ranch and has brought back tales of her adventures.
Tell us about yourself.
My name is Riley Francis and I’m from North Dakota. I’m 21 years old and attend North Dakota State University where I am majoring in Animal Science Biomedical. I already have Bachelors degrees in Biology and Chemistry. My biggest win was a win for my family in 2002 when we won Supreme Champion Overall Bull at the World Beef Expo in Wisconsin.
Tell us about your time in Russia.
I left for Russia May 17, 2014 and was there for three and a half months. I worked for Stevenson-Sputnik, a ranch in Russia owned by Darrell Stevenson out of Montana. While I was over there, I was put in charge of the hormone injections as well as pulling CIDRS. I got to pregnancy check 200 cows and AI about 100 cows. On days that we weren’t working in the reproduction area, we were out on horseback working calves and bull dogging them to treat pink eye.
The beef market in Russia has never been a hot commodity until recently, and they have tons of land to raise cattle. I was in Shestakovo and to see people not being able to purchase beef that they raised themselves is crazy! Stevenson-Sputnik employs 90% of the village of Shestakovo.
To prepare for my internship I started studying Russian before I left. I also have a friend who is fluent in Russian and another who was born there. They were able to help as well. I could read well but getting the right accent was tough. I wouldn’t change a minute of it though. I would definitely recommend anyone who has an opportunity to go overseas to take it!
What is your favorite quote?
My favorite quote is from my Papa Gene. “No matter where you go in life, someone is always going to have conflict with you. It’s how you handle the conflict that determines the kind of person you are going to be in life.”
What is your favorite show to attend?
Denver and Louisville! I like them because I grew up as a ranch and show kid so I made friends from all over the United States. Those are the only two times a year we really get to reconnect and catch up!
What are your plans for the future?
I plan to get a PH.D in embryology and have a DVM as well. I want to specialize in embryology and eventually own my own practice.
What BioZyme products do you use, and which one is your favorite?
Sure Champ, Concept-Aid and Vita Charge. We really like Vita Charge paste (transitioned to Vita Charge® Gel July 2019). We had a couple cows that were pretty sick and it helped them out a lot.
Anything else you would like to add?
Hi Mom and Dad!
