The Intern Files | Emily Gustafson

Next up in the 2020 Intern Files is Emily Gustafson! A Birmingham, AL native, Emily is a recent graduate of Auburn University, where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in Horticulture and plans to pursue a master’s degree in Landscape Architecture. This is her second internship with Landscape Workshop in our Central Alabama branch. Emily chose to focus her time on floriculture for her second internship and has been a great asset to the team – everyone wants Emily on their crew!

Name: Emily Gustafson

School: Auburn University

Major: Horticulture

Year in school: Rising Junior

Hometown: Birmingham, AL

How did you become interested in the green industry?

My grandmother and I would visit gardens and nurseries in the summer, and I was quickly hooked to everything the green industry has to offer.

Why did you enter into this field of study?

I entered this field of study because I wanted to create landscapes that encourage people to enjoy the outdoors. I want to have a job that allows me to do more than just sit behind a desk.

Why did you decide to intern with LW?

I interned here a few years ago and loved it. I wanted to get a little more experience in the field before starting my master’s in Landscape Architecture.

What is a “typical” day like?

In floriculture most days start off with loading the truck with flowers and mulch. We usually plant a few jobs before lunch. Then after lunch we check on previously planted beds to get weeds out and prune. At the end of the day, we unload all of the flowers left on the truck and set up some things for the next day.

What have you enjoyed most in your internship so far?

I’ve enjoyed getting to see a lot of the same people I met a few years ago.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned so far this summer?

I’ve learned that if you aren’t proud of of the work you’ve accomplished then you probably didn’t do it right. Never ask your crew to do anything that you wouldn’t do! I also learned how to work more efficiently and to be adaptable.

 What would you tell other students considering an internship with LW?

For anyone who is looking for an internship in the landscaping business, try Landscape Workshop! The employees there want to see you succeed. They are patient, and I didn’t have a single bad teacher. You also get to experience so much more than what you might learn in the classroom. You won’t regret this internship.

If you could have any super power, what would it be and why?

I wish I could be in two places at once.