Students study abroad to explore the world and expand perspectives

Two trips offered through the University of Minnesota’s Office of International Programs this spring gave College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences students the experience of a lifetime. 

Whether they were surrounded by howler monkeys in the jungle or swimming beside a blacknose shark, the trips offered a glimpse into what global learning can do. 

From rainforest to reef: Wildlife medicine and conservation in Central America

This spring, 23 College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS) students joined Melissa Palmer, teaching associate professor in CFANS’ Department of Animal Science, on a once-in-a-lifetime journey across Belize and Guatemala. Over 22 days, they explored wildlife medicine, conservation, marine biology, and environmental science in some of the most biodiverse places in Central America.

Palmer has been leading this program since 2014, and it continues to grow each year. While most students on the trip are preparing for careers in veterinary medicine, there are also students interested in wildlife, environmental sciences, and even finance. What ties them all together is a shared curiosity and a willingness to learn far beyond the classroom.

Throughout the trip, students visited different regions to experience everything from marine conservation projects to jungle treks. They learned how to collect environmental DNA in the rainforest, observed endangered turtles, practiced veterinary techniques like surgery and diagnostics, and even snorkeled along coral reefs. 

The program gave them a rare opportunity to learn directly from local experts, researchers, and veterinarians. Some days involved lectures, while others included hands-on animal handling and activities as real as they come.

The cultural experience was just as rich. Students immersed themselves in the daily lives of people in Belize, from Mayan farmers to Mennonite dairy producers. At first, many students were surprised by how different things felt, but over time they came to understand and appreciate the diversity that defines Belize. For many, it was eye-opening in the best way.

“I thoroughly enjoyed getting to visit Central America, experiencing a new culture, meeting incredible people, and being one with nature,” says student Brooke Wiese. “I gained some incredible hands-on experience with exotic animals and learned a lot about the importance of wildlife conservation. 

“I made some truly incredible memories, and I would highly recommend this experience to anyone with a love for travel, nature, and animals.”

Palmer says one of the most powerful parts of the trip was seeing how students grew. Most of them didn’t know each other before the trip, but by the end, the bonds were strong. She says that students were emotional saying goodbye.

Watching students face physical challenges, push themselves out of their comfort zones, and fully embrace the experience makes Palmer feel incredibly proud.

Asked to sum it up in one word, Palmer says “Magical.”

Into the blue: Shark biology and marine life in the Bahamas 

While one group was hiking through the jungle, another group of College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences students spent a week in Bimini, Bahamas, led by Ray Newman, distinguished teaching professor in the Department of Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Biology.

This program focused on shark biology and tropical marine ecosystems. Students spent their days working with the world-renowned Bimini Shark Lab, where they encountered six different species of sharks and rays, snorkeled in some of the clearest water on the planet, and learned how to identify over 50 types of marine life.

Every morning started with a lecture, and by the afternoon students were putting their knowledge into practice in the water—learning how marine conservation really works and seeing the effects of habitat loss and protection efforts firsthand.

The group not only learned about sharks and rays but also connected with the local community. One highlight was enjoying a freshly harvested conch meal prepared by locals, which helped students understand sustainable fishing practices in Bimini.

“The trip really opened my eyes beyond the animals. I was able to meet people and hear about their culture, practices, and traditions,” says student Antonio. “Not to mention, I got to get a live lecture every morning, then for the afternoon used the skills within the field with sharks, rays, and all the aquatic life [on the island].”

Every year, over 2,000 students take advantage of learning abroad opportunities at the University of Minnesota. With one of the largest programs in the nation—180+ options in 50+ countries—you’ll find a place that’s right for you. Learn more.