It’s hard to believe that I am already halfway done with the summer fellowship! Following the timeline I formulated during my first week at Local Matters, I planned to begin drafting the operations manual in greater detail by this point. I have stuck to this timeline even with the numerous obstacles in my personal life—namely, a covid infection. 

Last week, I created a survey to send out to the members of my team to gain further insight into my site’s operations. The survey sought to gather both quantitative and qualitative data. I inquired about the training and onboarding experience, how often employees find themselves confused, processes regarding technology, and allowed respondents to share their suggestions on how to improve the organization. Within minutes of sending the survey out this week, I received numerous helpful responses. As I read through these responses, I decided to first focus on those concerning the training and onboarding experience. 

Because I majored in political science and public management, I feared that my skills would not transfer easily to the nonprofit sector. Analyzing the survey responses showed me that this was not the case. Later this week, I compiled a memo to be shared with the leadership at my host site outlining the information gathered on the training and onboarding process and presenting recommendations for improving the process. The memo was structured similarly to the countless memos I wrote in undergrad analyzing public policy problems. Getting to use the skills I acquired through my studies and apply them to the workplace setting felt exciting and rewarding. 

Reflecting on the fellowship at the halfway point, I have enjoyed my experience greatly. Working in a new environment has pushed me to better understand what my skills are and how I can use them in a variety of workplaces. I have also developed a greater understanding of nonprofit organizations and how they operate. Seeing the passion for helping the community access healthy food exuded by everyone at Local Matters has reignited my interest in the field. I look forward to seeing what the next half of the fellowship brings!