Apple Turnover here (aka Alana Moore)!
I have been a member of the public affairs team at the N.C. Department of Agriculture since May, and unfortunately, my time with them has come to an end. Writing this blog on my last day has me experiencing a whirlwind of emotions. I am forever grateful for this incredible opportunity — one that I wasn’t expecting but seems like fate.
I first applied to be the public relations intern at the end of my junior year of college — a time when I felt I desperately needed a “legit internship” because I hadn’t experienced one yet. To me, that’s defined as a job that consists of in-person hours, a productive work environment and assignments that enhance my career knowledge and build my portfolio. I gained exactly that at the N.C. Department of Agriculture.
I remember speaking to Heather in my interview and immediately recognizing her. In fact, I recognized a couple of my coworkers from years ago when I would attend the State Fair with my best friend’s family. Her dad worked as the director of public affairs, and we would always visit the office. It seemed like such a fun job! What a full-circle moment to have worked in that same office with some of the same people.
Some of my favorite things I did as a public relations intern were creating Canva graphics, capturing photographs and writing countless blogs for both “Deep Fried” and “In the Field.” From Century Farm and Farm Family of the Day features to employee, musician and blue-ribbon winner profiles, each day I was typing away!
I interviewed many inspiring and accomplished North Carolinians for these blogs, and it was such a heartwarming feeling to turn their achievements into compelling stories and publish them on web pages for thousands to see. I learned so much more about our state’s leading agricultural industry and the State Fair, too. I ventured out of the office to attend and report on exciting events such as a milk-chugging competition for Legislative Dairy Day, Summer Fest at the Farmers Market and a shadowing day at the N.C. State Dairy Farm. Being immersed in this community truly introduces you to the best people, and I’m proud to say I’ve been a part of it.
October is without a doubt my favorite month of the year. It has always brought me so much joy and comfort, whether it’s from the falling leaves, pumpkin-flavored goodies and perfect weather to Halloween, my birthday and, of course, the N.C. State Fair. This October was particularly memorable because I was able to spend even more time with the coolest coworkers around as a public affairs assistant for the fair.
When I was asked to stay on following my summer internship, it was a no-brainer. Working in such a thrilling atmosphere, designed to bring happiness to all who attend, was indescribable. It was by far my favorite N.C. State Fair to date because of how involved I was behind the scenes. I saw the fair in a new light that made the event even more electrifying! Whether I was chaperoning dancing dinosaurs, judging a chicken wing competition, being paparazzi for the governor, zipping around in a golf cart, or performing with my a cappella group, I always had a smile on my face.
Although I’m sad to be saying goodbye, I know I’ll still be around — definitely by continuing the tradition of stopping by the Kerr Scott Building during fair season for a “hello!” What I’ll miss most is the camaraderie shared among the public affairs team. Heather, Andrea, Taylor, Brandon, Jackie, Jamey and Karsyn were the most welcoming and kind coworkers I could ever ask for. They made me feel like I was their equal, and I’m grateful for their guidance and friendship. Working in the same room during fair season was an absolute blast because of the chats and laughs we shared, from the FLARP! to the N.C. State Fair “Espresso” remixes.
I’ll forever cherish this experience because of the amazing people I’ve met and all the skills and stories I’ll carry to future job endeavors. Being an intern for the N.C. Department of Agriculture and N.C. State Fair is a life highlight, and I give it my highest recommendation.
Onto the next chapter!