The First Two Weeks...

I began my internship with the Shelby County Extension Office on May 6th. Since that time I have already learned so much about extension. I was born and raised in Louisville, KY and am very much so a "city girl." So, before applying for this internship, I had never heard of "extension." When I began the process of applying for the internship, I of course did some research to try and familiarize myself with the background of extension. But no reading can teach you the true meaning behind extension more than actually experiencing it.

The first few days after my arrival, my extension agent--Sheila Fawbush--made it her business to make sure I really understood the history behind extension. In reading the philosophy of cooperative extension, I uncovered a phrase that really stood out to me--"education for action." I don't believe there are any greater words to describe the purpose of extension. In only the two weeks that I have been here, we have served smoothies and parfaits to a headstart class to help encourage them to eat nutritious snacks; we have went to elementary schools and taught them about the benefits of fruits, vegetables, and physical activity; we have taught a body recall class for senior citizens with arthritis; and we have held a sewing circle complete with hand-made outfits and a spaghetti feast. These activities are only a brief overview of all that has gone on over the past couple of weeks, but I believe it is enough to stand as a testament to that defining statement, "education for action." Extension is all about going out into the community and offering the people education that can help improve their lives and the lives of those around them, and hope that they will then pass that education to someone else.

Admittedly, being the city girl that I am, not all of my experiences have been ones that I would have chosen for myself. For instance, I have no idea how to sew and never really had a desire to learn before extension. But, as Sheila says, "interns need new experiences." Now, sewing is still probably not going to be a new hobby of mine, but Sheila is right. Interns do need new experiences, and extension offers that at every turn! Extension is all about trying new things, learning new skills, and accepting new ideas. I am excited for the many new experiences to come, and the wealth of learning that I am sure will come with it.