Expanding the Horizon: The Transformative Impact of Experiential Learning at Oregon State University

Every year, students at Oregon State University’s College of Agricultural Sciences have opportunities to go beyond the traditional classroom experience through a variety of hands-on, global, and local learning programs. From exploring the rich agricultural practices of the United Kingdom to gaining invaluable policy insights in Washington, D.C., these experiences play a pivotal role in shaping students into well-rounded professionals prepared for the challenges of the real world. 

Through hands-on experiences, like those offered by OSU’s programs, students can see how theory translates into practice. The exposure to different cultures, agricultural systems, and global challenges helps them develop skills that textbooks alone cannot provide. 

Exploring the World Beyond the Classroom 

Oregon State University offers numerous experiential learning opportunities, not only within Oregon but also abroad, allowing students to engage with diverse agricultural systems, ecosystems, and cultures. One of the cornerstones of the College of Agricultural Sciences is its commitment to global education, creating programs that emphasize hands-on learning, cross-cultural exchange, and the application of classroom knowledge in real-world contexts. 

Over the summer of 2023, faculty and students from various disciplines embarked on transformative global study programs that took them across the globe. In France, students participated in a program focused on French food culture and climate change, which connected the dots between commodities, cafes, and climate action.  

In the United Kingdom, OSU students engaged with agricultural practices of the past, present, and future. Through faculty-led tours, they learned how Brexit has reshaped farming, and how a changing climate is prompting the modernization of sustainable practices.  

In New Zealand, OSU students studied sustainable pastoral farming systems, combining classroom theory with field visits to understand the soil-plant-animal continuum that underpins ruminant animal production. This trip consisted of breathtaking landscapes, where the interconnectedness of land, livestock, and community became evident in every conversation. 

In Ecuador, OSU students explored the principles of sustainability in agriculture, visiting shrimp farms and coffee plantations, exploring the biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands. This experience immersed students in Ecuador's unique agricultural and conservation practices, allowing them to see firsthand how local farmers are working to balance food sovereignty with the preservation of their natural environment. 

Connecting Students to Their Future Careers 

Experiential learning at Oregon State is not limited to global opportunities. For many students, the journey to unlocking their future begins with internships and field-based learning experiences closer to home. One such example is the Public Policy Internship program, which helped Animal Science graduate Adriana Perez apply the knowledge and skills she gained at OSU to the world of animal health policy. 

During the summer of 2023, Adriana joined Merck Animal Health’s North America Policy Team in Washington, D.C. In her 12-week internship, she gained hands-on experience analyzing policy that directly impacts the agriculture and animal health industries. Adriana’s work involved drafting policy briefings, conducting research, and staying updated on legislative changes. Through this role, she also had the opportunity to network with other agricultural professionals, attend congressional hearings, and engage in seminars that honed her skills in communication, policy analysis, and industry collaboration. 

The Lifelong Impact of Experiential Learning 

The influence of experiential learning extends far beyond the classroom and the duration of a program. It shapes students’ careers, personal development, and future aspirations. Whether it’s traveling to Palau to learn about sustainable resource management or participating in an internship that leads to a career in policy, the opportunities available to students at Oregon State help them develop into professionals ready to tackle complex global challenges. 

Students who engage in these experiences not only gain a deeper understanding of the world around them but also grow personally, gaining confidence and a wider perspective. As the College of Agricultural Sciences continues to expand these global and hands-on learning opportunities, it remains committed to providing students with the tools they need to succeed—both in their academic pursuits and in their future careers.  

Find your fit & gain a fulfilling experience at Oregon State University today!