My Intern Experience

When I first started at the Farmer’s Market  I was unsure of my duties and unaware of the depth of my local agricultural community. I wasn’t sure what to expect with my internship. I had rarely been to farmer’s markets before, and it was my very first job as an intern. To say the least, I was nervous. My supervisor, Les, was a kind, laid back man, which left me with the challenges and graces of managing his papers, time schedules, and produce. In the beginning, I did a lot of paperwork such as advertisements and member information processing. I slowly integrated myself into the actual market, hauling watermelons, driving trailers, and selling produce. Both sides of my internship helped me grow as a future businesswoman. I learned how to manage insurance papers, membership papers, and federal monetary documents as well. I was thoroughly impressed by the depth and flexibility of the Farmer’s Market’s payment options. One interesting project that the Maid-Plains Farmer’s Market completed was the WIC and Double Back program. Although many individuals believe that farmer’s markets take only cash, I was proud to tell others that our farmer’s market took every type of payment available. We accepted WIC and SNAP cards, checks, credit/debit cards, and food stamps. WIC and SNAP were a huge hit at our markets. It brought a smile to my face to think that we were helping out our community. Because we accepted WIC and SNAP payments, I was able to view a side of Plainview that I wasn’t too familiar with. I was able to see and acknowledge that my small town was not two-dimensional. All sorts of individuals were attracted to the market. From the president of the local bank to a single mother of four, working at a local grocery store, I greeted and served them all. I feel that this internship has helped me realize that although Plainview and Tulia may be small compared to Tokyo, that doesn’t mean that their individuals and communities lack depth. I have sharpened my people skills by learning how to bargain with other farmers and sell produce to customers. I have also learned how blessed I am to be fortunate to have so many opportunities presented to me and how I can best help others who aren’t as blessed as I have been. What I’ve learned from the market will undoubtedly follow me along my career path as I strive to make this world a better place.