Intern Juan Miguel Adams Shares Lessons on People, Stories, and Chicken

Thanks to Amore Coffee for their support. Amore hosts free homework help for all ages, led by retired professors, on Sundays from 4-6 p.m. Kicks off Sept. 21 with free cookies.

This summer Juan Miguel Adams served as our intern. His 10-week internship wraps up this week, so we wanted to sit down and capture his experience.

The work: Starting in June, Adams covered City Council meetings, interviewed locals, and learned about the industry.

Support: West St. Paul Reader is supported by neighbors. We couldn’t offer internships like this without regular support. Learn more about how you can help pay our intern.

A Conversation With Adams

Adams lives in Highland Park and will be a senior at St. Paul Academy this fall.

What story did you enjoy covering the most?

My story on Poppy and Wonderments. The owners were so kind, the mission was wholesome, and I was excited to cover a business that was there to serve the community. I got a tour of the business and saw some of the amazing artwork they produce.

I also enjoyed writing my Mr. Mustacheo story. Like Poppy and Wonderments, the owners pursued their passion to bring something special to the West St. Paul community. In Mr. Mustacheo’s case, that meant Mexican fusion flavors used in unique recipes.

What are you most looking forward to in your senior year?

In my senior year, I am trying my best to soak up all the areas of life that I will lose when going to college. I am prioritizing hanging out with friends, connecting with my teachers now, and enjoying my last year of high school. I am excited for the future, but while I still have my last year of high school, I am going to do all I can to make the most of it.

How did this internship help you? What did you get out of it?

Previously, I had only worked in my school publication; it felt special to serve a larger community. I got to meet so many amazing people and hear stories about such a tight-knit community that is West St. Paul. The real-world experience this internship brought me is what will stick with me as I continue in my education.

What was the most surprising thing you discovered about West St. Paul?

Initially, I thought it was a joke—the fried chicken crisis. It seemed so bizarre to me that an entire part of West St. Paul was upset over the abundance of fried chicken. But after seeing the reality of Robert Street and other fried chicken locations, I somewhat understand. Luckily, I live in Highland Park, where fried chicken is not so prevalent. However, from my recent review of some local taco restaurants, I’ve realized that West St. Paul has much more to offer food-wise than just fried chicken.

Thanks again to Juan Miguel Adams for working as our intern. Remember to help us pay our intern.

Our neighborhood news and student opportunities—like this internship—are made possible thanks to our members. Join now to support West St. Paul Reader.