Kaity Deaner

One of the kids' hands after doing out glo-germ experiment with a camp!

This week was filled with tons of activities! On Tuesday, I went to one of our camps with Amelia, our SNAP-Ed educator. We created a germination experiment for the kids and gave them some vegetables to try, which they absolutely loved. On Thursday, I visited the senior center with Beverly to have a Fresh Conversations session. We discussed the Mediterranean Diet Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) diet, which focuses on what you need to eat to lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Finally, on Friday, I went to a camp with April to show various activities and lessons for kids. We focused on germs, digestion, and handwashing. 

The set-up for a SNAP-Ed education session we had at a local camp. We were teaching about germination in a glove.

Through this internship, I’ve learned a lot about myself! Before starting, I never truly had community experience in a professional setting. I’ve learned that I truly love it and enjoy seeing the impact on people within the community these events have. During the Fresh Conversations session with Beverly, many of the participants of the session came up to us and discussed how these sessions have impacted their diets significantly. With the children we’ve worked with, we’re able to help them explore different parts of agriculture that they can get involved with at home. 

I’ve also learned that I actually enjoy working on projects by myself. Prior to the internship, I felt a bit nervous doing projects by myself as I like having another person to bounce ideas off of and to ensure I’m taking the right steps. However, after working on my own research project, I’ve learned to trust in my abilities, judgment, and skills, which has felt pretty empowering. I still love collaborating with others, but I don’t mind working by myself now. 

Finally, I've learned about how much I love doing administrative tasks. Within the office, I've helped with lamination, preparing for the Cecil County Fair, and going over prior events. These tasks feel like a bit of a break compared to my research project and going around the county for events. When I'm feeling a bit stressed, I can go over these tasks and provide myself with a "brain break."