By Marlee Jackson

Since her senior year of high school, Carlin Parrish eyed Alabama Extension’s internship program — intrigued by its impact on communities like her hometown of Woodland.

Now a junior at Auburn University (AU), Parrish has that much-anticipated summer internship under her belt. 

“I really enjoyed my experience and got to make connections with so many great people,” said Parrish, a former 4-H’er who worked with 4-H Specialist Nancy Alexander on projects like the State Horse Show, Livestock Judging Competition and 4-H Summer Camp.

Parrish’s internship is already bearing fruit. This fall, she’s working for 4-H as a student employee while juggling studies in agricultural business and economics. 

She’s considering a future career with Extension, too. That’s an encouraging outcome after their eventful summer, Alexander said.

“Internships are a powerful way to put our mission into action,” Alexander said. “Young people like Carlin get a chance to take what they’ve learned in the classroom and apply it in meaningful, real-world ways. Carlin didn’t just observe. She led, created and contributed in ways that mattered.”

Investing in the Future

To support students like Parrish, the Alfa Foundation invested $25,000 into Extension’s agriculture-focused intern program. The foundation is a philanthropic arm of Alfa Insurance and its founding organization, the Alabama Farmers Federation.

“For over 100 years, Extension has served the communities of this state. We need to raise up more young people who are interested in continuing that work,” said Jimmy Parnell, president of Alfa and the Federation. “I’m convinced investing in these students will have a real impact on our state.”

Internship Excitement

Extension annually accepts applications for summer internships located in offices across all 67 counties. While Parrish focused on youth development, Anna Cleckler cultivated a deeper understanding of horticulture work in central Alabama.

Her projects included floral research trials with Chilton County Extension Director Lucy Ellington; a tomato workshop with Home Horticulture Extension Agent Mallory Kelley; and organizing a National Peach Ice Cream Day celebration. Cleckler also assisted Regional Extension Agent Bethany O’Rear with the Great Southeast Pollinator Census. 

Interacting with community members and sharing helpful hints about home horticulture was an ideal fit for Cleckler, an AU senior in landscape horticulture.

“I’ve really enjoyed the hands-on, community-focused aspect of Extension work, and it’s made a lasting impression,” said Cleckler, a Clanton native. “Because of this, I’m seriously considering a career that involves Extension, even as I pursue my long-term goal of becoming a professor.”

Lasting Impact

As summer ended, a new photograph graced Alexander’s office in Auburn. She and Parrish grin while grouped around Aubie, AU’s beloved tiger mascot.

It’s a reminder that internships are more than pathways to potential employment. They’re about building relationships, Alexander said.

“I hope Carlin’s experience not only inspires her to return to work for 4-H or Extension in the future but encourages more young people to explore careers in this field,” Alexander said. “The impact of one summer can ripple out for years through stronger programs, fresh ideas and future leaders who already understand the value of learning by doing.”