Culture
I’m learning that culture plays the most
significant role in transitions. Yes, you will miss your hometown and college
town and all of the persons you shared those years with in the process of
joining the post-undergraduate world. Yet, it is important to remember to be
grateful for what you’re experiencing in this moment and every moment forward.
I’ve found that one way to be grateful is to learn about the new culture, reach
out with an open heart, and explore.
Adjusting to the new organizational culture was a
lesser part of the process for me, whereas adapting to the culture of my new
state has been a grand adventure! This past weekend my colleague Nicole took me
to the Vermont State Fair in Rutland, VT where I encountered a charming family
atmosphere. We were accompanied by her friend Sarah, a Vermonter (and former
Maple Queen!) who taught me about sugaring - the process of gathering sap and
making maple syrup – and kindly explained the nature of maple sweets.
While we waited out a huge storm that rolled in, I
tried a ‘maple creamie’ which is maple syrup mixed into soft serve ice cream,
and maple candy. Delicious! I’ll never use maple-flavored corn syrup on
pancakes again!
Walking around the fair in the rain, I saw lots of
John Deere tractors (John Deere is from the Rutland area just like Nicole!),
dairy cows being milked, a collection of chickens, sheep and goats, carnival
games, and rides. I also saw the line of folks waiting to see American Idol
Scotty McCreery, gigantic vegetables, guns, impressive art exhibits, and
smelled some great fair food. I was also able to pet a dairy cow which was so
exciting!
I started my transition by being wowed by the
Green Mountain views, and I certainly grow fonder of Vermont’s culture and
sense of community each day.
For more information about Southwestern Vermont
Medical Center:
For more information about AmeriCorps VISTA:
For more information about the Vermont State Fair:
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