Colombia Study Abroad Maymester

Colombia Maymester

This course provides an international and multidisciplinary perspective on food security and resources. Focus will be case studies that represent different regions of the world with special emphasis on the changing conditions for tropical agriculture. The case studies, discussed in the context of the Millennium Development Goals, will help students gain knowledge and understanding of regional variations of food security and resources, sustainable development and economic growth throughout the world.

(AGEC 498) Food Security and Sustainability

This is a three-week, three-credits course that offers units on social and demographic changes, the physical environment, global climate change, economic systems and global trade. Purdue partners with the University of Caldas, UC, and the Technological University of Pereira, UTP. The first week is held in Pereira at the UTP and the second week is in Manizales at the UC. During these two weeks, Purdue students have access to course materials such as PowerPoint slides with class notes, course programs and reading materials in English while their instruction will be in both English and Spanish. The third week will be back on Purdue's campus with Purdue students and faculty as well as the Colombian students and their faculty for Team presentations and complementary activities. The joint teams’ multimedia project will be shown via video-conference to other students and professors in UTP and Caldas. There will be an extra week to finish a written paper (in English for Purdue students).

This is a bilingual, technology intensive course, however Spanish Fluency is NOT Required.

Cost: $3,000 [estimate] includes all Expenses– All Students eligible to apply for a $1000 scholarship from Purdue

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Faculty Leader: Dr. Ken Foster

Student Reflections:

"The sights, sounds, and tastes of Colombia were unforgettable, but collaborating and building relationships with others coming from completely different angles than me was what I am most thankful for." -Daron Wilson, Agricultural Economics

"This experience definitely contributed to my Purdue education. It made me realize how small the world really is, and that it is possible to work and get along with people of different cultures to produce fantastic results. I think if international education is promoted more, one day international relations between the countries of the world will be strengthened immensely.” -Jacki K. Howard, Agricultural & Biological Engineering

"The interactive experience of visiting farms complemented the class well and is where I took away the most knowledge. I feel from this experience my Purdue education has taken a new turn and I can easily see myself becoming involved in more international programs and always trying to see things from an alternative perspective. I came away with a better understanding of food security and itnernational practices along with great memories and new friends!"

"The things I learned can't be taught in Class of 50 or Armstrong or Beering. I learned about different cultures and I experienced that you cannot judge a book by its cover."