Summer 2026 Furman Intern: Lauren Waters

Lauren and Veronica handing out meals during free service.

This summer, we were thrilled to welcome Lauren Waters, a rising sophomore at Furman University studying Sustainability Studies with plans to also major in Politics and International Affairs. Drawn to Project Host by our commitment to creating a sustainable, circular food system, Lauren spent her internship exploring every corner of our mission—from the garden and hydroponics projects to the HostMobile and our outreach programs. Along the way, she discovered that Project Host is powered not only by fresh food and innovative programs, but by an incredible team of staff and volunteers whose passion for serving the Greenville community is truly inspiring. Read on to hear Lauren reflect on her favorite memories, what surprised her most, and how this experience has shaped her future goals.

Tell us a little about yourself! What's your major at Furman, and what drew you to Project Host for your summer internship?

I am a rising sophomore this year. I am a declared Sustainability Studies major and a prospective Politics and International Affairs major as well. I was drawn to Project Host by the beauty that the organization provides food to numerous communities around Greenville, while also sustainably creating a circular system within its integral functionality. I.e., the produce moves directly from the garden, to the kitchen, and then the byproduct is used in the compost for future plant growth.

Lauren and students helping with a large donation.

What has surprised you most about Project Host since your first day?

I was surprised to know how much community support the establishment has on a weekly basis. I was delighted and impressed to see how many of the programs are functional, due to the deviation of various rotating groups of volunteers.

What's been your favorite thing to harvest or work with in the garden so far?

My favorite opportunity in the garden was the mini-project I took on to grow lettuce and basil, without the integration of soil. This was through the method of hydroponics, which I had never used before. Not only was the method successful, but I am now knowledgeable enough to have created a fun, educational video documenting the process.

What's your go-to summer activity when you're not at Project Host?

When I am not at Project Host I am typically listening to music, walking the lake (possibly while listening to music), reading, or catching up with some friends!

What's currently at the top of your summer playlist?

I have a diverse music taste generally, but a few on repeat hits for me have been Led Zeppelin's “Physical Graffiti” album, “The Shakedown Street” album by Grateful Dead, and anything by Fleetwood Mac.

Lauren working in the garden.

What do you hope to learn or accomplish before your internship ends?

I hope to have a full grasp of how to smoothly transition into a new working environment. I also hope to gain an understanding of some of the processes that are necessary to run a functional organization.

How do you think this experience will influence your future career or personal goals?

I think that working with a non-profit this early in my career at Furman, will provide me the knowledge of the locations of local volunteering opportunities. I am interested in investing in the Greenville community and continuing to work in sustainability as I do so.

Which Project Host program has been the most memorable to experience, and why?

Lauren giving a tour of the facilities.

My most memorable Project Host experience was likely the time I got to work alongside other staff on the Food Truck Hostmobile at an event. It was just unique in nature, and something unlike anything that I have done before. I would have to say that I would definitely do that again!

What's been your favorite memory from your internship so far?

My favorite memory continues to change as I go through my internship. One of my favorite parts, despite the sadness, was the day that the CC Pearce Culinary School graduated. Another is spending time with experienced individuals, such as Veronica. Ultimately though, I’d say that I build new favorite memories just by chatting with the staff during the daily lunch period.

What's one thing you wish more people knew about Project Host?

The people that are employed at Project Host have more knowledge and life experiences than would initially meet the eye. I have continuously met individuals that have held jobs in fields such as Government, Firefighting, Chef-work, and the Military. I have immense respect for these people who choose to dedicate their work to a non-profit organization, despite having already done so much for other communities and establishments.