By Andi Anderson
Ohio State University’s Agribusiness Club took an educational field trip to Louisiana and Mississippi over winter break to gain industry exposure and connect with professionals in agriculture and agribusiness.
Twenty students from the Agricultural, Environmental, and Development Economics (AEDE) program participated in the trip, visiting sugar refining, grain export, egg production, and equestrian farming facilities. Some key stops included:
- Louisiana Sugar Refinery and a sugarcane production site to observe refining and harvesting processes.
- Cargill’s grain export terminal and Zen-Noh headquarters to learn about grain logistics.
- Clear Creek Studs equestrian farm to explore equine agribusiness.
- Cal-Maine Farms to see egg production and packaging operations.
- Mississippi State University research facilities for insights into agricultural research.
“The trip allowed us to see different agribusiness operations firsthand and network with industry professionals,” said Adam Rischar, club president. “Building connections with experts is something we always strive for.”
The Ohio State Agribusiness Club focuses on career development and networking opportunities for students. Club advisor Brian Roe emphasized the importance of the annual trip, saying, “It opens students’ minds to agribusiness possibilities and helps them develop logistics and fundraising skills.”
The AEDE department is recognized for its applied economics programs, offering education in agriculture, sustainability, and economic development. Trips like these help students gain real-world exposure and explore future career opportunities in agribusiness.
Photo Credit: ohio-state-university
Categories: Ohio, Education