Chris Meyer
How did you learn about your study abroad program?
Through the agronomy department's weekly newsletters.
Why did you choose to participate in the study abroad program?
I used to be involved in the World Food Prize Youth Programs that got me very interested in Sub-Saharan African agriculture. Traveling to Ghana and learning about their agricultural practices was a fantastic opportunity for me to learn more agriculture abroad.
Have you traveled internationally before studying abroad?
No, traveling to Ghana was the first time flying to a new country.
Do you think your experience benefited you personally, professionally, or academically?
Absolutely. This trip had a such an impact on me in every aspect: personally, professionally, and academically. It opened my eyes to how much of the world there is to explore, and it broadened my perspective in ways I couldn't have imagined.
Most memorable experience?
It's hard to choose just one experience because the range of what we saw and did is what made the trip so memorable. We did everything from walking through big cities and small villages, to learning about crop research facilities and cocoa farmers. We visited historical slave sites, experienced traditional Ghanaian food, dancing, drumlines, and even played a soccer game against a local high school team (We lost). We got to experience hikes through rainforests, swimming in the ocean, and nature watching in an African savannah. Every moment offered something different. That full spectrum is what really stands out to me.
What advice would you give to students interested in one of your programs or study abroad in general?
Take a leap of faith. Step outside of your comfort zone and you will grow in more ways than you would ever think.
Anything else you want to share from your experience(s)?
In Ghana I had 16 different types of meat/seafood:
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Chicken
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Beef
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Pork
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Lobster
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Goat
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Lamb
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Tilapia
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African Catfish
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Red Fish
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Tuna
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Mackerel
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Cassava fish
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Prawns
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Calamari
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Giant African Snails
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Grasscutter (Google it)