Psychology student promotes sustainable agriculture and supports local farmers

Zach Napora ’25 dove headfirst into his passion for sustainable agriculture this summer during his APEX Fellowship experience. Napora, a psychology major at The College of Wooster, learned of the internship position at Taste the Local Difference through the College’s student portal. Taste the Local Difference is a food consulting, media, and marketing agency in Michigan that provides education, support, and resources to local food markets. Their goal is to cultivate relationships with local food suppliers in order to promote sustainability and diversity. With Stephanie Strand, associate professor of biology and biochemistry and molecular biology, as his fellowship mentor, Napora learned about the value of collaboration, communication, and community while working with a company whose mission aligned with his own.

“Being part of an organization that values collaboration, innovation, and community engagement is exciting to me. The chance to work alongside like-minded individuals who are passionate about creating positive change in the food industry is both inspiring and motivating.”

—Zach Napora ’25

Why was the position a good fit for you?

“The position with Taste the Local Difference was an excellent fit for me because of my deep passion for local food systems and sustainable agriculture. I strongly believe in the importance of supporting local farmers and businesses to create a healthier and more resilient community. Taste the Local Difference’s mission aligns perfectly with my values, and I was excited about the opportunity to contribute to their efforts in promoting local food and connecting consumers with local producers. My background in marketing and my strong communication skills made me well-suited for the role.”

What interests you most about the work you did?

“What particularly interests me about this work is the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the local food economy. I find great satisfaction in fostering connections between farmers and the community, as well as helping to build a more resilient food system. Additionally, being part of an organization that values collaboration, innovation, and community engagement is exciting to me. The chance to work alongside like-minded individuals who are passionate about creating positive change in the food industry is both inspiring and motivating.”

Who was your fellowship mentor and how did they help you to succeed in this position?

“My mentor was Stephanie Strand, associate professor of biology and biochemistry and molecular biology. She provided lots of guidance and opportunities for reflection.”

What are some skills you’ve learned that you see yourself carrying forward in your career?

“Throughout my experience with Taste the Local Difference, I have gained valuable knowledge about the local food landscape, including the challenges and opportunities that exist within the industry. I have developed a deeper understanding of the importance of supporting local farmers and the positive impacts it can have on the environment, economy, and community health. Furthermore, I have honed my marketing and communication skills through content creation.”

How has the internship helped you to see what’s next for you?

“Looking ahead, I see myself taking away a profound appreciation for the power of collaboration and community-driven initiatives. Working closely with local farmers, businesses, and consumers reinforced the significance of building strong networks and partnerships to promote meaningful change. I have also learned the importance of adaptability and creativity in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of local food systems. These experiences and insights will undoubtedly shape my future endeavors as I continue to advocate for sustainable agriculture and contribute to the growth of local food movements.”

Posted in Experiential Learning on August 16, 2023.