37 Enhancing Student Experiences Outside the Classroom: Industry Tour and Study Abroad Opportunities

Abstract

Experiential learning has become a cornerstone in most educational systems. The concept continues to prosper as we see a greater population of animal and equine science undergraduate students coming from urban backgrounds with minimal hands-on animal experience. Experiential learning is accomplished through many pathways in our educational system including, but not limited to: laboratories, internships, field experience, study abroad, and research. Providing these learning options is integral to the success of our students as they enter the workforce. In the Department of Animal Sciences at North Dakota State University we strive to provide unique opportunities to enhance student learning. Study abroad and industry tours are exceptional approaches to expose students to professional opportunities, diversity within industries, international practices, and cultural differences. Although these experiences may or may not offer physical hands-on activities they provide life-changing opportunities for many students, allowing them to gain new perspectives and become more globally aware. Focusing on methods to provide the participants with a sense of ownership is key to immersion within the programs. Having an open dialect where student input is considered, and feedback is applied when forming an itinerary ensures the trips are relevant and diverse. Student understanding of the process from start to finish is imperative. Discussions of travel, culture, tour locations, and expectations prior to departure will help better prepare students for the once in a lifetime experience, they will have traveling on a study abroad or industry tour. While organizing study abroad and industry tour itineraries preparation is key to offering a successful and in-depth experience. Consideration should be placed on allowing students to reflect, analyze, and apply the information obtained. Combining the physical travel with the above three things will result in an impactful experience.