Every journey begins with a single step, but some journeys leave footprints that remain long after the road has ended. When I stepped into my internship at Field of Hope, I knew I was beginning an important chapter of my academic journey, but I did not know just how exciting, challenging and transformative the experience would become. I arrived as an agriculture student carrying knowledge from the classroom, but Field of Hope became the bridge that connected that knowledge to the realities of communities, farmers and everyday life.
At first, everything felt new, the people, the environment, the activities and even the rhythm of working beyond the classroom. Yet, like a seed placed in fertile soil, I slowly began to grow. Each day brought something different to learn and someone new to learn from. I discovered that agriculture is not simply about crops, animals and soils; it is also about people, relationships, resilience and creating opportunities that can transform lives.
One of the most exciting parts of my journey was participating in community outreach activities. Travelling to different communities and interacting with farmers gave me an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and put my knowledge into practice. I participated in nutrition and gender training sessions, where we shared knowledge on better nutrition, gender roles, prevention of gender-based violence, education of children and the importance of preventing early marriages. Standing before community members and sharing what I knew taught me a valuable lesson: knowledge becomes more meaningful when it is shared.
My journey did not stop with communities and farmers. I also had the opportunity to visit schools and speak to young people about agriculture. Standing before students and encouraging them to look at agriculture beyond the traditional perception of it as merely digging and planting was particularly fulfilling. I shared the possibilities that agriculture offers in agribusiness, technology, livestock, crop production and innovation. Through these interactions, I became part of a bigger conversation encouraging the next generation to see agriculture not only as a career, but as a field filled with possibilities. Establishing agricultural clubs further gave students a platform to learn, explore their interests and grow their passion for agriculture. It reminded me that when we inspire a young mind, we plant a seed whose fruits may be enjoyed for generations.
As the saying goes, “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.” My experience confirmed the truth in these words. Working with staff, fellow interns, farmers, teachers and students showed me the power of teamwork. Every person had something to contribute, and every interaction added another piece to the bigger picture.
My journey also took me beyond the office and into practical agricultural enterprises. At TAF Farm, I explored different aspects of farming, including fish production, soil management, manure utilisation, tree planting and Black Soldier Fly production. Learning how fish ponds are managed and stocked, understanding the importance of proper pond inlets and outlets, and seeing how organic waste can be transformed into useful animal feed opened my eyes to the possibilities within agriculture.
The Black Soldier Fly unit was particularly fascinating. Watching the process from eggs to maggots and learning how the maggots can be harvested, processed and incorporated into animal feed made me realise that what may appear to be waste can actually become a valuable resource. It reminded me that sometimes opportunity hides in places where we least expect it. 
My internship was not without challenges. There were moments when I had to adapt, learn quickly and step into unfamiliar situations. However, every challenge became a stepping stone rather than a stumbling block. I learned to communicate more confidently, work with different people, manage my time and approach unfamiliar tasks with curiosity instead of fear. Little by little, the student who entered the organisation with questions began to leave with experiences, skills and a broader vision.
Perhaps the greatest lesson I gained is that education does not end when we leave the classroom. Sometimes, the most important lessons are written in the field in conversations with farmers, interactions with students, hands-on activities, long journeys, teamwork and even the challenges we face along the way. Field of Hope gave me a living classroom where theory met practice and where learning became an experience rather than merely a concept.
Looking back, I can confidently say that my internship has been more than a requirement for my academic programme. Mentorship, Bible study and personal development books shaped my character, discipline and perspective, teaching me integrity, humility and service. They strengthened my desire to become not only a knowledgeable agricultural professional, but one who serves communities with purpose and compassion. To cultivate a better profession, I must first cultivate myself. It has been a journey of discovery, growth and purpose. It has watered the seeds of my passion for agriculture and strengthened my desire to use the knowledge I gain to make a difference in communities and inspire young people to embrace agriculture.
As I continue my academic journey, I carry with me more than notes and memories. I carry lessons, friendships, confidence and a renewed understanding of what agriculture can achieve. The journey may have started with a single step into Field of Hope, but the footprints it has left on my heart will continue to guide my steps into the future.
Tracy Faith Cherotich, Field of Hope Intern 2026
