An illustration of a woman caring with love to Soil and Soul Farm's garden full of produce.

Internship in Regenerative Farming, Horticulture, and Eco-Psychology

What it is

As our flagship program, the Institute of Soil and Soul offers full and part-time internships from April-November, for college students seeking credit and beginning farmers seeking a comprehensive education in regenerative farming, horticulture, and eco-psychology.  Interns will be fully immersed in the operations involved in running a small-scale regenerative farm, such as planting and propagation, harvesting, and animal husbandry, as well as the philosophies and foundational texts of the burgeoning regenerative farming movement and eco-psychology.

Interns will walk away with an accomplished understanding of what it takes (and means) to build strong, healthy soils, as well as the techniques of composting, medicinal and culinary mushroom cultivation, plant harvesting and propagation, orchard care, animal husbandry, holistic management, water conservation, and more. 

Most importantly, interns will experience what it means to engage in meaningful work in a supportive environment, and be given an opportunity to unplug from normal distractions, and discover and embrace an alternative vision in line with core values. Prior experience is not necessary. Internships are unpaid. 

How to apply

We ask that candidates interested in proceeding with the application process send a resume and cover letter detailing your background and interests, addressed to Gabriel directly at info@soilandsoulfarm.org. 

Please write honestly and from the heart, reflecting upon what Masanobu Fukuoka, the founder of Natural Farming once wrote:  "The ultimate goal of farming is not the cultivation of crops, but the cultivation and perfection of human beings.”

*Prior experience with horticulture is not necessary. We look forward to meeting you!

Our Past Interns

  • Spring/Summer 2023

    My time at Institute of Soil and Soul was uplifting, refreshing, and educational. It became a place I was consistently excited to return to. Our daily discussions (about society, the self, and of course, soil and soul) over coffee and tea were insightful and significant. We created a very special community, and experienced deep connection. I learned so much from the great conversations and Gabe’s mentorship. Both the agricultural and psychological aspects of what we covered together is easily applicable as I move forward in life—I am leaving the farm more centered and fulfilled than I was before.

    — Deborah Lehman, Trinity International University

  • Spring/Summer 2023

    Spending my summer as an intern at soil and soul was an incredible experience. Not only did I learn about regenerative farming, soil health, and eco-psychology, I also gained a deeper appreciation for my food, and the effort that goes into growing it. There is no feeling quite like the serenity of a quiet morning on the farm. The institute of soil and soul teaches farming, of course, but also connection to Earth and all of her inhabitants. If you have a chance, I would definitely recommend going to the farm.

    — Emily Hines, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

  • Spring 2022

    My experience at the Institute of Soil and Soul was nothing less than exceptional. From the first day I arrived, I could feel a strong sense of peace and serenity on the land. It was a blessing to have my place of work be such a sanctuary for me! The work on the farm was quite enjoyable, too. I learned how to transplant and seed crops, inoculate mushroom beds, and general plant maintenance and other valuable tasks. Working with my hands was super therapeutic for me. Even a simple task such as pulling weeds could become a meditative experience. Overall, the work was fun, mindful, and a great way to connect with people. Gabe is a grounded, wise mentor whose attunement to life ignites the best in the people around him. The other interns were warm and welcoming too. It was a such a privilege to be able to work, learn, and converse alongside these amazing people. My experience at the Institute of Soil and Soul are treasures I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

    — Jason Whittaker, Northwestern University

  • Spring 2022

    I wanted to say to you how much I enjoyed spending time here. I really didn’t know what to expect going into it, but I am so so happy I stuck with it because the experience has been truly unforgettable! Gardening feels like a home and a sanctuary to me now. I really see myself coming back here for so many years to come. I can’t thank you enough for this amazing opportunity you granted me! I’ll be thinking of y’all when i’m back at school - I’ll miss it here!!

    — Erin Butler, Butler University

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