“I’m grateful for the opportunity to travel to Brazil,” Pringle said. “I appreciate Dr. Felix and everyone who organized this trip, and the producers who gave us tours, showed us their operations, and answered our many questions.”
The trip also included a visit to Aliança da Terra, an organization that promotes land management and environmental protection within agricultural and livestock production.
Students explored a facility owned by JBS, a Brazilian livestock company, and learned about the organization’s ongoing projects. Next, the class toured Campo Nutrição Animal, which specializes in nutrient products for beef and dairy cattle, and Embrapa, a research corporation under the aegis of the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock.
Finally, the group spent a day visiting the Federal University of Goiás (UFG). The students at the university organized a symposium for attendees to hear from Brazilian and American educators. Felix explained that the class also was invited to attend a meeting at the vice president’s office.
While at the university, Penn State and UFG signed a memorandum of understanding. This memorandum, spearheaded by Ganda, will enhance future relationships between the two universities.
“This was a momentous occasion and one that many of the students highlighted when discussing their favorite parts of the trip,” Felix said.
As she prepares for veterinary school, Banta said her favorite part of the trip was meeting other veterinary students at UFG.
“It was cool to see how their campus was organized and learn how their education journey differs from ours,” Banta said.
Pringle added, “At every farm we visited, we were greeted with hospitality and excitement. Many of the farmers rearranged their day and even their harvesting schedules to spend the time with us and teach us about their operations.”