Finding Happiness In Urban Farming
Looking for a refreshing new experience but unsure of where to find one, Ga’Nyah Minor stumbled upon an unexpected gem. She interned at Farm Alliance of Baltimore and became hooked on the world of urban farming. After a few weeks, Minor, enlightened by the possibilities of urban agriculture during her internship, has continued studies with renewed purpose as a sophomore in Agricultural Business Management at the Institute of Applied Agriculture.
During her time at the Farm Alliance, Minor visited other urban farms in Baltimore and realized it was possible to grow a diversity of food in an urban setting. Even though waking up early could be a pain, the reward was spending her weekend mornings at farmer’s markets and interacting with many different types of people such as customers and workers at the farm. Minor stated that “of the most enjoyable experiences was realizing the rewarding experience of weeding a vegetable garden, and planting flowers such as marigolds which beautified the farm.”
During the internship, Minor’s duties included working directly with customers. In addition, she was able to practice and enhance quality time management skills. She provided support for the Waverly Farmer’s Market and the Farm Alliance marketing program overall, including working the market on Saturdays from 6 am-12 pm. She also provided direct support for member farms, including helping with the harvest and other needs at their farms.
Minor said that she chose this internship because “I learned about the marketing portion of farming but have never been to a farmer’s market.” She started working with the Farm Alliance by attending farmer’s markets and helping out at the farms. She wasn’t sure that she would enjoy the experience at first, but being around amazing people and feeling the reward of her efforts at the farms paid off.
Heather McHale, Minor’s advisor, said that “the internship allowed Ga’Nyah to study and discuss nonprofit leadership and purpose,” which is a very valuable experience. Minor realized that overall she enjoyed the environment and experience of being an urban farmer, and wants to return and do more with the organization.
