I was responsible for launching a project that would promote olive oil sales for the company. I created a project called “Adopt an Olive Tree” which is a restoration project for olive trees in Tuscany. I also created two other experience-based weekends involving picking from the vineyards and a foraging walk. Some of the smaller tasks I had were photographing the oils and wines and updating the description card for both during tasting.
The most challenging part of my internship was the language barrier. Though I took Italian for four years in high school, I wish I was better prepared to speak the language. The most rewarding part was the relationships I built with the other people on the estate. These individuals will always hold a place in my heart, and their culture will be in mine.
This internship has had an impact on my career goals and has gotten me interested in food and beverage and business. I have always had a passion for health and wellness, and after learning about the health benefits of olive oil consistently in a person's diet, I believe there is a marketing for combining health and wellness into business. Whether this is creating my own business or marketing for a specific health benefits product, I think I will be looking into this career field as I move into my senior year!
Makena Garrehy