Nathan Behrends
Nathan Behrends, a junior in agricultural studies, applied for a study abroad program over summer 2020, but the program was canceled due to the pandemic. Not being discouraged, Behrends applied for the Soils, Crops, and Water of Costa Rica travel course led by Dr. Lee Burras over Thanksgiving break and was fortunate enough to be accepted to the program. Behrends had no prior international travel experience but wanted to see different parts of the world and experience different cultures.
As a CALS Ambassador, Behrends recommends studying abroad for all interested students. 鈥淪tudying abroad is a great way to compare and contrast different perspectives while gaining a greater appreciation for the world.鈥�
Reflecting on his study abroad experience, Nathan said that the travel course exceeded his expectations and helped diversify his experience in agriculture and culture. 鈥淭he best thing about this trip was that we were able to tour the rural countryside instead of seeing all of the tourist landmarks. I gained the most value when interacting with local farmers and learning about their farming practices and operations.鈥� Behrends could apply knowledge learned in the classroom at Iowa State while visiting a farm run by Gabriella, a local farmer with a passion for producing fruits and vegetables on her family鈥檚 untouched land. While touring Gabriella鈥檚 farm, the group conducted soil sampling and analyzed the results to provide Gabriella with recommendations on which produce they felt would grow best on her terrain.
Another part of the trip that stood out to Behrends was the sustainability measures utilized within the country. The majority of the foods grown stay within the country to self-sustain the individuals living there. The country also utilizes hydroelectric and geothermal to provide energy to its residents. Behrends believes that Costa Rica is at the forefront of renewable energy and hopes that other countries, including the United States, will consider implementing some of these strategies in their future initiatives.
Behrends is active within the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) community as he recently served as the CALS Student Council, President, and CALS Ambassador. Behrends is a member of the Iowa Corn Growers Collegiate Club, Iowa Soybean Association Soy Squad, and will serve as president of the Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity next year.