Student Impact Reports

As I was close to entering my last semester as an undergraduate at Penn State University, I realized I was missing something; a study abroad experience.

By Kathryn Jordan (Physical Geography - Climatology Focus major International Agriculture, Earth Systems, & Climatology minor) “I learned about European and US Agriculture, got to explore the city of Paris, and make seven new friends while living in one of the most remarkable European cities. I will never forget the experiences I have made on this trip and am forever thankful to Penn State for this opportunity”

By Kathryn Dietrich (Food Science major, Nutritional Sciences minor) "The College of Agricultural Sciences provided me with a unique, educational experience during my time abroad, one that I will not forget!"

By Elke Hess (Immunology and Infectious Disease) "Paris lived up to every expectation, except for the wine and cheese. They were even better than I could have imagined."

Traveling to Paris with the College of Agricultural Sciences was an unforgettable experience – and I can’t wait to go back!

This visit to France really impressed upon me the usefulness of knowing a second language, as well as the importance of making an effort to communicate with people in their native language.

My time in Paris kick-started my personal journey in global interactions that will continue throughout my professional career.

I was able to learn a lot about agriculture not only in France, but here in the United States as well.

I got to eat Nutella crepes underneath the Eiffel Tower and to learn about foreign agricultural trade from within the French U.S. embassy, and I wouldn’t trade these experiences for the world.

Hannah Masser, Agribusiness Management major with a minor in Agricultural Communications, shares her experience in Paris, France (INTAG/AGBM 499E/F).

The most beneficial knowledge I gained came from experiencing the city for myself, taking it in, and discovering unique places in a personal way.

I never wanted to leave Paris. I came back to the US craving the buttery croissants and Nutella crepes, and wishing that I could eat duck confeit meal every day of my life.

When I registered for An Sc 499A, I thought I knew what I was getting myself into. After all, a course titled “Normandy France Equine Industry Studies” seemed pretty self-explanatory. But I never would have guessed that I could learn so much or that I would have so many incredible opportunities in one semester and a 10 day visit to France.

As a study abroad student in U.S from Malaysia, studying in Paris is a truly special and wonderful experience.

I’m amazed by all of the unforgettable experiences we packed into just ten days...

This past summer of 2012, I attended a study abroad trip with Dr. Marianne Fivek and Dr. Ann Swinker, and fifteen other students from Penn State. The trip was for an embedded course on French Equine Industries in Normandy. The objective of the trip was to learn about the horse business in France, which included, breeding, transportation, dressage, racing, showing, and selling.

This was an experience of a life time! If you love animals, especially horses, and would like to experience an unforgettable cultural experience this is the trip for you!

The most difficult question to answer is what was my favorite part of the trip...

I am a Francophile. I love just about all things French: The food, the language, the culture, and mostly just the way of life. The “joie de vivre” if you will.