Hello Thomasville! My name is Katherine Cook, and I am excited to have the opportunity to join the Thomasville Times-Enterprise for an internship. I was born and raised in Thomasville, where I attended Brookwood School. For as long as I can remember, I have enjoyed being involved in the Thomasville community and meeting those who make the town a whole. I am a junior at Florida State University seeking a Hospitality and Tourism Management degree with a minor in Business. When I am not studying, I play for the Florida State Women’s Golf Team.

When choosing my major at Florida State, I knew hospitality was the route to go. I have enjoyed every moment and continue to go down new paths with incredible opportunities. Recently, I had the opportunity to go to Napa Valley with Florida State University’s Dedman College of Hospitality. There, I learned about the wines of Napa and more. I will study for the Certified Specialist of Wine exam which will create a solid foundation for my knowledge of wines around the world. This new avenue is something I never thought would be presented to me. My passion for connecting with others is prominent in everything I do. Whether I am on the golf course playing 18 holes with someone new or having a glass of wine to catch up with an old friend, I have learned relationships with others are the most valued aspects of my life.

It was not until I heard the perspectives of out-of-town visitors about Thomasville’s southern charm that I realized this small town is special. I have always had a passion for learning about the community and each contributing part. I look forward to having a deeper appreciation for the Thomasville community through interning with Times-Enterprise during this holiday season.