Three Weeks In: Building Connections and Discovering Opportunities in the Experimental Scholars Program

by Anna Teague, ESP intern - June 9, 2026

It has been three weeks now since I started my Experimental Scholars Program (ESP) internship, and I am still discovering new things every day. When this opportunity first came up, I was not sure what to expect. I went into it with a positive attitude and an open mind. All of the new interns for University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture (UADA) started orientation at the Little Rock State Office, then went to the Vines 4-H Center for the rest of the trip. The orientation was so amazing, it made me very excited to work with the other interns I met, and we also learned more about extension and community development. Before orientation, I knew absolutely nobody. Yet afterwards, I had made so many great connections and friendships with other interns, it did not matter whether they would be working with me again or going out across the state. That opportunity to meet, form connections, and gain experiences has been one of the most helpful so far.

As a team of interns for UADA, we have to solve problems, communicate, adapt, and step outside our comfort zones. Knowing those surrounding you were all in the same boat, you felt a sense of security, where you could be yourself and push yourself out of the box you made. The main time that I saw this happen was when we all went on the high ropes course. Everyone had to support and cheer each other on, and even push each other when needed. If I didn't have my team cheering me on, it would have been impossible for me to accomplish all that I did. I gained the skill of perseverance along with excitement for others' accomplishments. It was also fun to just learn where everyone came from and what their concentration is with extension. I am so grateful for orientation and the people I met, and when we got home on May 20, it was time to put those skills we crafted and perfected to the test. 

Once I got back to where I am stationed, the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, I began planning out and strengthening my project that I will present at a national conference. My project will be a photo exhibition capturing the bridge between art and community development, showing how art practices can encourage community development and a positive support system. I plan to take pictures capturing the bonds formed by residents and their community when creating art. I am going to be working with THRIVE, Inc. This company is based in Helena-West Helena, where I will be spending a week engulfing myself in the community and culture along with forming my project. I am so excited to be a part of the team making a difference in the city of Helena-West Helena and am grateful for all the experience I will gain that can be used in my future projects. I cannot wait to see what else I can learn and strengthen my skills during this internship. I am ecstatic to be part of this amazing career opportunity in both learning and leading in community development and also the artistic world and all those apart if it.