A Degree of Frustration
For quite some time now, I have been getting older, the matter of fact we all are! The body is getting tired and the physical labor thing is getting tougher to do. None of this should surprise you.
So, I start looking for something job wise that would still keep me in the horticultural world. I already have authored several books, I do multiple lectures a month on various topics, and I write for a few websites and magazines. I have a vast degree of knowledge pertaining to all things gardening, plants, shrubs, trees, flowers, and fruiting. Sadly, all of these do not cover the monthly bills, yet. But I keep trying.
So what does all of this have to do with frustration? Glad you asked!
I have seen listings for many different places that are in need of Extension Agents. Being a Master Gardener Emeritus here in Charleston, I am familiar with the extension job. I am sure there is even more to it that I don't know about, but, I see them doing a lot of writings, lectures, planning of educational programs, organizing the Master Gardeners, and answering/helping folks with their garden questions. I can and do most of that already!
The rub is, I do not have a degree! Hence, the frustration. I think I would make a GREAT extension agent. I have applied for several of them, only to get turned down without even a second glance. I have shared my experiences, writings, awards, and recommendations from people that I have helped. Nothing works.
I know what would be the logical step, get the degree. Easier said than done. I certainly can't afford it. Scholarships, grants, etc, I don't seem to qualify for. Time wise, I would have to go to school during the day, work at night, which would not be bad, but, now I am I back to that age thing. I TRULY have the desire mentally, the body tells me to go take a flying leap.
I have always been taught that, if you want to complain about something have an alternative solution. Well, I have one. I would LOVE to be handed some kind of a test of experience. I have talked to extension agents in other states that, truthfully, scared me. I have heard information given out on radio and television that I almost spit out my coffee. As just one example, Fig trees do NOT need a male and female to produce fruit! Yes, I actually heard that spoken by an extension agent. But, I digress.
All I want is a chance to show my stuff, test me, give me a probationary trial, something along those lines. Just because somebody has a degree does NOT make them any better than somebody that has many years of hands-on experience.
Physically I am much older than my chronological clock says, I have abused my body in my youth, trying to get ahead, and now I am paying for it. I appreciate you reading this, I am all ears for any insight that you might have. Does anything like what I have proposed here exist? Have you heard of any paying intern type extension agent jobs? If you happen to know of or need someone that sounds like me and you would like to learn more of what I have to offer, please check out my website: https://thecitrusguy.com/