Meet Caitlin Gantt (she/her)

April 11, 2024 dkkearns

Program and Location:

Major/Minor:

Double Major: Animal Science and Agribusiness Management Minor: Nutrition

Why did you choose to study abroad?

I have always wanted to study abroad but due to COVID I feared that I would never have the opportunity to do so. However I never knew how many options were available even for seniors. Traveling and visiting new places is a huge passion of mine as well as horses and I found the perfect program that involved both and felt like it was a perfect fit for me. My academic advisor was head of the trip so she ultimately inspired me to apply and was very supportive and guiding throughout the program!

What did you learn about yourself?

It may be hard to believe, but this trip truly changed me as a person and re-ignited my passion for equines well as the industry itself. Traveling overseas was really eye-opening to me as well as experiencing a new culture. On this trip I tried to try and live in the moment more and to never waste any minute and still to this day I try and implement this into my life more.

What was one of your favorite parts of your program?

It is so hard to choose my favorite part however I think that horseback riding on Castle Leslie Estate in the rain was an experience I will never forget. The estate was breathtaking; the castle, the stables, and the town. Charlie, the horse I rode, gave me just the confidence I needed to get through the ride. The ride itself was thrilling in all good ways between the scenery of the distant valleys and hills as green as can be and being on a horse again jumping through the rain. It was a ride that I will remember for the rest of my life.

What advice do you have to future study abroad students?

Never waste a moment! Even though the days were long I always went to explore the town we were in after dinner and took in everything. Find a buddy, that way you will never be alone and always have a friend with you to also be able to experience the towns and sites to be seen. Take a lot of pictures! I find myself going back frequently to look at my photos and reminisce upon my travels and so glad I have them to show my friends and family as well. I also brought along a disposable camera to take pictures with my friends as well as people we met along the way which was really cool.

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

I have always been interested In equine reproduction and want to explore a future career in the field. While in Ireland we visited multiple facilities that centered around breeding and reproduction and this allowed me to see the way that different facilities operate in order to be successful. There were various programs that I learned about that could be a possibility to pursue post-grad.

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?

Because this was a short trip, there was not much class time. We had a couple assignments pre-departure to prepare us for the trip and to learn a little more information of the industry in Ireland.

Would you do it again?

Absolutely!