Looking Back at Brainfood: A Reflection

 

       As I sit down to write a reflection on my time as an intern at Brainfood, I can barely believe that the summer has flown by so quickly. A large part of the joy I found during my internship was the way in which I was adopted so whole-heartedly into the Brainfood family. I was supported and encouraged every step of the way by a wonderful staff; Brainfood has been an ideal environment in which to grow and learn. From the detailed orientation to the regularly scheduled check-ins to the careful instructions provided at the start of each new task, Brainfood has taken care of me as an intern. Indeed, the emphasis placed on the importance of the interns’ work and experience at the organization has given me a taste of the self-confidence and sense of ownership over work that Brainfood does its best to instill in its students. 

 

 

       As I wrap up my internship, I would like to extend a huge “thank you” to the Brainfood Summer Institute 2013 students and their families. The first day of class, now seven weeks ago, found me a little more than slightly nervous. I’d only ever worked with younger students during prior work engagements, and I didn’t know how high school students would react to an instructor only three or four years their senior. I shouldn’t have worried. Our students proved themselves to be capable, enthusiastic, engaging individuals, and they embraced me as they embraced the cooking experience. A week ago, as we prepared to finish a day of volunteer work at the DC Central Kitchen, the Kitchen’s PR coordinator turned to me and said, “They’re really a great group.” I couldn’t have agreed more, and I’d like to think that participating in Brainfood helped them along their ways. I have no doubt that our students will make positive change in their communities, and I want to thank their families for allowing us to get to know them through cooking. 

 

 

It seems impossible that I have to say goodbye to Brainfood in a few days, but I couldn’t be more proud to have been a part of the organization during this past summer. I applied to Brainfood in hopes of engaging in youth development, but I had no idea how much I would develop right alongside of the students, both professionally and in terms of confidence. I feel newly at home both in the kitchen and in an office setting, and I have forged some wonderful interpersonal connections. It’s been both unforgettable and enriching. I owe so much to everyone who’s been a part of my journey here at Brainfood. Thank you all for this summer.