June has been filled with checking out of school, wrapping up projects and getting things started. The experience with Ogallala Commons started off in Texas with the intern orientation. Ironically, I find myself back in Texas while posting this blog! The orientation was a great opportunity for interns to get together, learn about the OC and share stories. After retreat we left with a renewed purpose and direction for the summer.
My first “job” as an intern was to attend the Rural Grocery Summit in Manhattan, Kansas. This was an educational experience as I once again traveled with an individual that is well
versed in the organization that I am interning with. The summit was focused on rural grocery stores, the do’s and don’ts and local food policy. The area that the HCI asked me to pay particular attention to was the food policy discussion. I attended workshops and keynotes about all areas and was able to connect with several individuals that are facing similar experiences.
When I returned from Manhattan I was able to be a part of the HCI leadership call and talk with my sponsor about what my job will be this summer. Being a busy young teacher that is focused on summer professional development, I have been running around doing workshops and personal trips. Ultimately they all tie back into the concepts and themes of the OC and HCI; rural culture, water conservation and education. Once I return from Texas I will be settling into my internship and putting in the hours to accomplish the goals that have been set. I will be working to help survey the seniors in my community and creating a business plan for the local greenhouse that is currently not in production.
