The pumpkin patch, a perfect place for a fall day spent with friends and family, but what if the pumpkin patch was also a place one could earn money while also getting into the fall spirit. 

This is the reality for senior Kaylon Urzendowski and sophomore Brigid Kingston who work at “Vala’s Pumpkin Patch & Apple Orchard.” Open from Aug. 31 to Nov. 3, Vala’s is a pumpkin patch many go to throughout the fall season, but what some people may fail to consider is Vala’s from the workers perspective.

Urzendowski works as an attraction team member which means she helps with the jumping pillows, family and individual carts, the big slide, and egg scramble. Although this is only her first year at Vala’s, it has already been a good experience for her. 

“They are really flexible with hours and who you are working with,” Urzendowski said. “The weather has been so nice when I have been working so it makes it a fun experience to be here in the fall, [but] it can get stressful on the weekends when it’s busy.”

It is also Kingston’s first year working at Vala’s in the food department and she has liked working there, but she has also ran into a few problems. 

“They are very misleading when it comes to scheduling,” Kingston said. “At the interview they ask you to fill out your availability and they assure you multiple times that you will not work all the hours and days that you say you can, but that’s not what happens.”

Working in any position, there will be new people to meet, and at Vala’s, the people do not disappoint. 

“My favorite thing is probably the people,” Kingston said. “Since I’m at a new location almost every shift, I’ve gotten to meet a lot of really great people.”

Only being open for a portion of the year may turn people away from working at Vala’s who want a more long-term job. However, only being open for a little bit may be a pro for some.  

“I wanted a seasonal job and working at Vala’s from August to early November was perfect for me,” Urzendowski said. “I have had friends tell me they have loved working there and the perks of being a team member there.”

Outside of being able to work in a fall environment, there are more perks that come with being an employee at Vala’s which includes the discounts.

“I get a season pass, five free season passes, four general admission tickets, [and an] employee discount on food and merchandise,” Urzendowski said. “I have loved giving my season passes to my friends and family. I get to go to Vala’s multiple times during the season and use my discounts when I’m with them.”

When thinking about getting a job, it is reassuring when the workers say positive things about it. For Urzendowski and Kingston, they both recommend the job to others. 

“It’s a great opportunity to get work experience in a fast paced environment,” Kingston said. “It’s also a seasonal job so if you really don’t like it, you only have to do it for three months.”

All around, the pumpkin patch is a fantastic place for a fall day and a fantastic place to earn money. Especially Vala’s where the workers enjoy their time working there.