Hello again! 

This summer, I have had the privilege of interning with the OSU Extension Service in Douglas County. Since my last blog post, we have been busy preparing for the fair and making sure that everything ran smoothly throughout the week!

For the past several weeks, I have been working out of the fairgrounds to help get everything ready for fair week. From putting together materials for each species exhibited at the fair to setting up spaces for our 4-H Static Exhibit Day, I have been involved in many of the behind-the-scenes tasks that go into preparing for the fair. 

Once fair arrived, I helped check 4-H members’ record books, staff the 4-H office at the fairgrounds, run supplies between barns and assist with anything else that was needed. Every day of this internship has brought a new adventure and a new opportunity to learn. Being able to see the direct impact that 4-H has on kids has been one of the most rewarding parts of this internship. 

A few weeks ago, I also had the opportunity to judge the Cloverbud 4-H exhibitors and learn more about their static projects. Although Cloverbud projects are judged on participation rather than competition, I had a great time interacting directly with the kids and seeing the amazing projects they had worked so hard on. From LEGO structures to quilts to floral arrangements, I was so impressed by the creativity and effort that each Cloverbud member put into their project. 

As my internship comes to a close, I have been reflecting on what a great summer it has been! I have had so many opportunities to gain hands-on experience, develop new skills and see the impact that 4-H has on our community. I am especially grateful for the opportunity to spend my summer giving back to my home county and being part of such a meaningful program. I can’t wait to take the skills and experiences I have gained this summer into my future career. Thank you to the Douglas County staff for making this such a memorable and rewarding summer!