It is hard to believe that my summer with OSU Extension is already coming to an end. When I first started this internship, everything was new to me. I was entering a world of food preservation that I knew very little about, and there was so much I had yet to learn. Now that I have reached the end, I can look back and see how much I have grown. My confidence, collaboration skills and understanding of community education have all developed throughout the summer. I can attribute that growth to the new experiences I was able to take part in, the patience everyone I met showed me, and the incredible passion of the MFP volunteers, demonstrating how much can be accomplished when people work together.

Throughout the summer, I have had the opportunity to work in both Benton and Linn counties and take part in a variety of projects and events. From preparing workshop supplies and organizing resources to attending farmers’ markets and creating educational activities, no two weeks looked exactly the same. Seeing the amount of preparation that happens behind the scenes has given me a new appreciation for the work that goes into creating a successful community program. 

One of the biggest surprises of my internship was discovering how much I enjoy creating digital displays and hands-on activities. Whether I was creating a display about canning equipment or helping develop an activity for a farmers’ market, I found that I really enjoy taking information and thinking about how it can be presented in a way that catches someone’s attention. There is something rewarding about creating an activity that makes someone stop, interact and learn something new. This experience has also shown me that communication is a major part of public health. Having good information is important, but finding ways to effectively reach people with that information is just as impactful.

I also learned to become more comfortable when I did not know something. There were plenty of times when I had questions or was learning something for the first time, especially in the world of preservation. Instead of feeling like I needed to have every answer, I learned to ask questions, listen and use the people around me as resources. Getting comfortable with feeling uncomfortable was one of the biggest drivers of my personal growth and confidence. 

As I finish my internship, I am grateful for everyone who welcomed me, taught me and gave me the opportunity to be involved. If I could give future interns one piece of advice, it would be to say yes to new experiences. You may start an internship thinking you know what you want to get out of it, only to discover something completely different that you enjoy. I am leaving this internship with new skills, new interests and a better understanding of the kind of work I want to be a part of in the future.
– Callie Bradshaw 

Hi everyone! 

My name is Callie Bradshaw, and I am entering my third year at Oregon State University studying public health with a minor in communication. After earning my degree, I hope to pursue a career in healthcare administration, where I can help improve patient experiences and make healthcare more accessible and effective. This summer, I am thrilled to be interning with Oregon State University Extension’s Master Food Preserver (MFP) program, working with both the Benton and Linn County communities. 

 I’ll admit that before this internship, my knowledge of food preservation extended little beyond basic food safety. I quickly learned that there is so much science, planning, education and outreach involved in helping people preserve food safely. One of the biggest surprises has been discovering just how many ways OSU Extension Master Food Preservers serve Oregon communities. Whether answering food preservation questions, teaching workshops, supporting volunteers, or creating educational resources, I’ve seen firsthand how research-based information can make a real difference in people’s lives, especially when it comes to food security. 

One of my favorite projects has been designing educational displays and interactive materials for community outreach events. I enjoy combining creativity with education, and this project has challenged me to think about how to communicate food safety information in ways that are engaging and easy to understand. I’ve also had the opportunity to organize Master Food Preserver equipment and resources, assist with workshops and learn about the planning and coordination that happen behind the scenes.  

As the summer continues, I’m looking forward to attending farmers’ markets, community events and workshops where I can connect directly with members of my community. I’m excited to see the educational displays we’ve created in action while continuing to learn from the dedicated MFP volunteers. I hope to use every event as an opportunity to strengthen my communication skills and gain confidence in community outreach. Although food preservation is different from the healthcare setting where I hope to work someday, this internship has shown me how closely education and public health are connected. Helping people make informed decisions about safely preserving food is another way of promoting health and preventing illness. That perspective is something I plan to carry with me throughout my career, making me even more grateful to have the opportunity to learn and serve my community this summer!