Internship Keeps Student Rooted in Environmental Education

Sharon Newman ’22 is all abuzz about spending this past summer digging into gardening education. Thanks to donors who provided a stipend for her work, the environmental studies student from Arlington, Virginia, was able to skip the typical student’s summer job and take an internship with the Vermont Community Garden Network (VCGN) as a Garden Educator. The role gave her the opportunity to experience the impact that gardening has on different populations here in Vermont. She learned about food from many perspectives, including nutrition and health, growing and preserving, and preparing and cooking. She also worked with families, seniors, and volunteers, encouraging the community-at-large to learn how to take a hands-on role in growing and preparing their food.

Following her internship, Newman secured a part-time job with VCGN, overseeing and organizing workshops with the Chittenden County affordable housing site gardens.

“This is exactly where I wanted my career to be right now,” says Newman. “I had no idea it would be possible to do this. I can see more clearly now how much I love environmental education and working with children and other groups.”

Newman says she is grateful for the donor support that made her internship experience possible.

“So many students are passionate about what they are learning, but they don’t always have the means to pursue those passions. By providing this funding, donors are playing a huge role in granting equity for all students, uplifting students facing financial issues and students of color. I am so grateful for this, and I hope that one day I will also put my money toward uplifting future generations who want to do good in the world.”