Meet Susan Jones

Program and Location:

Summer, Ireland: Global Food Systems and Sustainable Agriculture; Various Locations, Ireland

Major/Minor:

Agricultural Education & Poultry Science

Why did you choose to study abroad? 

I wanted to gain international experience while I was able to!

What did you learn about yourself?

Through this experience I learned that I have many more interests in international agriculture than I did before I studied abroad and the opportunities available in agriculture are vast and wide-spread!

What was one of your favorite parts of your program?

I really enjoyed the farm tour aspect of the program. These tours put us on the ground with the animals and gave a first hand experience like no other.

What advice do you have to future study abroad students?

Make studying abroad a priority! Plan ahead, ask questions, and find a program that fits you.

How did your study abroad experience prepare you for your future career?

It gave me first-hand global experience that I will be able to use in a future classroom or career.

Were you surprised by anything during your time abroad?

I was not necessarily surprised by anything in my time abroad. I was amazed by the different cultures and practices that are present abroad.

How were your classes abroad different than if you would have taken them at NC State? Did you take any field trips or do anything outside of the traditional classroom?

My study abroad trip was only two weeks and the class I actually took at NC State. However, we learned a lot about university classes in Ireland and how the university setting differed from the United States.

Would you do it again?

Yes! I actually went on this same study abroad trip two years in a row. I have now graduated and have started Graduate School, but still pursue opportunities to study abroad!