Wow! I can’t believe it is our final full week as Rising Star Interns. It seems like yesterday we were just moving into our apartment at NCC. As the internship draws to a close, I look back on my time with great pride. These past few months have been full of positive, creative energy where no two days are alike. I have been able to further develop and grow not only as a person but also as a future agriculture educator.
One of my most favorite parts about the internship throughout the summer has been getting to know the kids at each of the daycare programs. If anyone knows me, they know that I love both working and being around kids. They have such authentic and curious minds. When telling the daycares that it is our final time coming, you could see the children’s sad body language. It made me realize that we really did make a positive impact on them just as they made an impact on me. Although I may not be completely ready to leave them, knowing that I made a difference makes parting a little bit more bearable.
I also benefited tremendously from getting to network with so many people not only in extension but from everyday occurrences. Whether it was extension specialist, county staff, master gardeners, or community members, getting to build relationships with them throughout the summer was vital to my career growth.
Lakes Area Farmers Market 
Dairy Specialist Fred Hall 
Osceola 4-H BBQ
I will remember all the people through extension that have inspired me as I strive to carry that inspiration to others. Thank you Iowa State University Extension for an incredible and memorable summer!
-Signing off
Natalee Dippel, Region 1 ISU Extension & Outreach Rising Star Intern