Nicholas Olson

 

This is me washing some PVC pipe that will be used to direct water flow in a rain catchment system. The project is taking place at Plantation Park Heights Urban Farm.

   As a student learning is your life. You go to class, listen to a lecture, take notes, and then reflect on what you learned from that lecture. It is a structured way to gain knowledge. Extension has opened up a new way of learning both about myself, and other people. Being in a professional setting has changed my routine and forced me to learn more about myself and how I work outside of the classroom. I have always known that I like to work with my hands, but being in an office has made me want to pursue a career that forces me to be outside as much as possible. Getting outside helps me reset and be productive when I have busy work to do.
 

   I also have enjoyed being able to meet so many new people through Extension. I have always been able to work in a team, and I typically try to take a leadership role in a group. Considering I am an intern working with professionals on research projects I have had to find other ways to be a leader. I have figured out that I lead others by being proactive and trying to find a role in a project even if it is something like pulling weeds. I think it is important to get others involved and that is where I thrive. I love the feeling of finishing a job which is why I work hard, so that I can feel accomplished.
    

These are some of the individuals involved with the rainwater catchment project at Plantation Park Heights. You can the cream-colored filtration system for the water on the ground in the middle and the blue collection barrels on the right. Many hands make light work!

    Not only am I learning about myself, but I am learning about the urban farmers of Baltimore City. My mentor is very involved in the community, and this has allowed me to meet urban farmers and learn about their experiences. Part of the research I am doing is learning about what resources they need to be successful. I really want to see them succeed because they are so passionate about not only agriculture but also helping their community. It is really inspiring to see so many people who are passionate about something. I feel after these experiences that I want to help those who are less fortunate and combine that with one of my passions. It also makes me want a vegetable garden in my backyard someday.