Kindra Douty

Responsibilities

My responsibilities include planning and coordinating the setup for either the Ames or Des Moines Farmers Market every Saturday. I manage product sales, promote the business, distribute free samples, and educate customers on the importance of supporting local agriculture. Each market presents unique challenges, such as differing demographics during events like Iowa State football games or adverse weather conditions, requiring me to anticipate and adapt to a variety of scenarios. In addition to market duties, I handle home deliveries, ensuring that customers feel valued by providing prompt, friendly service and a positive experience with every Farm Story Meats order. I also perform a range of office tasks, including managing raffle entries, adding contacts for email promotions, and writing personalized thank-you notes for every local order, demonstrating a commitment to customer engagement and community connection.

Accomplishments

During my internship at Farm Story Meats, my greatest accomplishment was contributing to the successful coordination and execution of several on-site events and marketing initiatives. I took the lead in organizing product displays and helping manage customer interactions, which not only increased engagement but also strengthened my skills in event planning and client communication. It was incredibly rewarding to see my efforts directly impact customer satisfaction and the overall presentation of the farm’s products. Additionally, I was able to improve operational efficiency by assisting in streamlining inventory tracking and supporting the team with daily tasks. This allowed the staff to focus more on customer experience and sales while I helped keep things running smoothly behind the scenes. I am proud that my contributions enhanced both the daily operations and the overall professionalism of the farm, giving me hands-on experience that reinforced my passion for event management and organizational skills.

Learning experience

One of the greatest lessons I learned during my internship at Farm Story Meats was the importance of adaptability and problem-solving in a fast-paced environment. Whether it was helping with events, managing product displays, or assisting customers, I quickly realized that things don’t always go as planned, and being able to adjust on the spot is key to success. This taught me to stay calm under pressure and find creative solutions while keeping the team and customers in mind. I also learned the value of clear communication and teamwork. Coordinating with different staff members and understanding each person’s role helped me see how collaboration directly impacts efficiency and customer satisfaction. Beyond technical skills, I gained a deeper appreciation for the hard work and dedication required to run a small business, which strengthened my organizational skills, work ethic, and confidence in contributing meaningfully to a team.

What advice would you give?

Don’t be afraid to be involved. It might seem scary and overwhelming but you will never regret not only getting involved in a community, but learning hands-on life experience with your peers. My freshman year I was not involved in anything and I regret it to this day. Make yourself busy, but know when to take time for yourself. Only commit to things you enjoy, not what will look best on your resume.