Jack Chism

Additional International Experiences: Internship in Ghana with US Farms; Rural Entrepreneurship Academy to Brazil; Responsible Seafood Summit in Scotland 

How did you learn about your study abroad programs? 

I learned about the CALS study abroad programs by talking with my Ag Business advisor, Dr. Ebby Luvaga. Dr. Luvaga has planned and carried out multiple study abroad courses to various countries. She expressed the endless opportunities and options that studying abroad can have.  

Why did you choose to participate in the study abroad programs? 

I always wanted to travel and see what the real world was about. Growing up I also enjoyed learning about history. After starting at Iowa State, I really wanted to visit different countries to learn about their cultures and livelihoods. My father also studied abroad and I always wanted to follow in his footsteps to learn more and leave my comfort zone.  

Have you traveled internationally before studying abroad? 

No, my first time leaving the country was for my study abroad course to the UAE. However, I did visit Washington D.C. and believe that this experience prepared me for international travel.  

Do you think your experience benefited you personally, professionally, or academically? 

I benefited in all three areas. Personally, I was able to experience different view points and learn new information I still use today. My trip to the UAE taught me about the economic model used there, I hope to be able to use this knowledge to continue my family’s farming operation. Professionally, study abroad opened a lot of doors for me. Having an open heart and willingness to connect is how I have been able to experience other international experiences outside of CALS. I currently have a potential career opportunity in Brazil, which is due to my past connections and ability to learn. Academically, I have learned more about economics. Economics is a hard concept to learn at times but seeing it in action allowed me to better understand. Also, traveling to Scotland taught me more about aquaculture and how I can better my future aspirations.  

What was your favorite study abroad experience? 

My favorite study abroad experience was traveling to the UAE. This trip instilled curiosity and was the first country and culture I experienced outside the US. 

What was your most memorable experience? 

My most memorable experience was renovating a school in Ghana for only $300. Getting the chance to help a community and help students learn was very eye opening.  

What advice would you give students interested in studying abroad? 

Look yourself in the mirror and verify you truly want to adventure. If you truly want to see a different part of the world or experience how other humans live and have your life changed then study abroad.  

Anything else you want to share about your experiences? 

I believe every American should go abroad. The world’s problems are solved when you travel and learn not only about yourself and the new country you visit but also about your home. I have been all over the world and there is nothing more beautiful than Northwest Iowa and I have come to realize this through study abroad.