(Editor’s note: By way of illustrating the value of Dr. John Wilson Community Garden Apprentice Program, apprentice Julia Michael talks about what she’s gotten from her work at the garden. Emptea Bowls is the program’s primary fundraiser.)
“I initially came to Warren Wilson College to study sustainable agriculture, but I found that I wasn’t interested in learning agriculture from a classroom. I found it hard to connect to the romantic idea of agriculture and food security that I had in mind. I didn’t feel engaged with my community; I felt lost in the science of it.
“I eventually changed my major to study art, but I was still longing for an experience in agriculture where I felt like a connected part of the community and where I could gain practical skills. I was put in touch with Diana McCall at Dr. John Wilson Community Garden through the Warren Wilson service learning program, and I began working there…