A Warm Welcome
My first week as a 4-H Extension Agent was nothing short of energizing and fulfilling. From the moment I walked into the office, I was greeted by an incredible team who immediately made me feel at home. Adjusting to a new routine, even taking a different route to work has been a small change compared to the excitement of stepping into a role that truly feels like where I’m meant to be.
Jumping Into Training
This week was packed with activity and learning. I jumped right into trainings, met my new colleagues, and began navigating a position that is uniquely supported by both the University of Florida and the Putnam County Board of County Commissioners. Everyone has been so welcoming, and their support has made this transition both smooth and encouraging.
Farm Tour Experience
One of the highlights of the week was helping host about 70 students from a neighboring county as they toured one of our local farms and packing house. They learned about the farm to table process, got their hands in the soil, and even took home beautiful, freshly harvested heads of cabbage. Seeing their excitement and curiosity reminded me exactly why I love working with youth because experiences like this stick with them. 
County Council Meeting
I also attended our monthly County Council meeting, where I had the chance to meet some of our young leaders and hear about the amazing things they’re already doing. Their energy and eagerness to grow make me even more excited to support their future projects.
Supportive Team Dynamics
Inside the office, I’ve been fortunate to work with an assistant who knows this program inside and out. She has already shown me so much, and I’m incredibly grateful for her patience and guidance. Our County Director has been wonderful, helping me map out our upcoming events, summer programming, and major activities like the Florida Extension Summit, district events, and our summer camps.
Sweet Corn Project Kickoff
Toward the end of the week, we kicked off our sweet corn project for students. I even had the opportunity to visit the UF Hastings farm, where I got to watch the planting process up close, from the fascinating Monosem vacuum planter https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-goy_FyZB4 to the irrigation of the field afterward. The students will harvest this sweet corn in late May, and I can’t wait to see the full cycle of growth alongside them.
Preparing for Field Day
We’re also preparing for an upcoming field day focused on meat cuts, carcass quality, and what goes into raising a successful fair project. This event is essential for our exhibitors who will be showing at the fair later this month. Their mix of excitement and nerves, whether they’re seasoned or brand new, makes the teaching
moments even more meaningful.
A Meaningful Start
All in all, it has been a busy, rewarding, and inspiring first week. If this is any indication of what’s ahead, I know this journey as a 4 H Agent is going to be something truly special.
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