Hi, I’m Katie, recently nicknamed Sweet Potato by my fun and loving coworkers here at the Department of Agriculture. I am so lucky to be the first in-person intern since 2019; I was even granted my own ultra mini desk. (I’m only kidding), it’s wonderful here, and I can’t wait to become part of such a memorable event. A little bit about me, I’m a rising junior at UNC-Chapel Hill, where I am studying Communications with a concentration in media, technology, and production. Before starting college, I grew up in Wilkesboro, a rural farm-loving town at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.
My favorite thing about the NC State Fair always has been and always will be the food. Each year there’s zero doubt that you’ll be able to find a new menu item that is incapable of being served anywhere else. A few of my favorites include Shrimp and Grits on a stick, Lobster Dogs, and Sassy’s Sweet Potatoes. Not only is the food utterly mouthwatering, but thoroughly creative as well as culturally diverse. Growing up in a small town often sheltered me from various experiences, such as trying international recipes or exposure to cross-cultural competence.
Attending the annual state fair has gifted me with an expert sense of empiricism regarding a wide range of ethnicities, cultures, and family dynamics. That is truly the wonderful thing about the NC State Fair; it is catered to anyone and everyone. No matter who you are or where you are from, you are welcomed here. The people are warm and welcoming, and the food is exceptionally delicious. Still, you will also find tons of rides, entertainment, animals, and best of all, the always beautiful North Carolina sunsets, especially while atop the famous Ferris wheel. I’m looking forward to what this year’s menu has in store.