Assiniboine students heading to Italy to learn about local food systems

Students in Assiniboine College’s Russ Edwards School of Agriculture & Environment will be immersed in Italian food and agriculture in Urbania, Italy for two weeks this May, a unique college experience exploring the flavours and colours of authentic Italy.

“Learn by doing is a cornerstone experience for students at Assiniboine,” said Karen O’Gilvie, Academic Chair in the Edwards School. “Being able to travel internationally as part of their program, and be immersed in a culture so rich in culinary history, not only adds to students’ hands-on learning experience, it also provides them with an expanded worldview and meaningful memories that will stay with them long after they graduate.”

Twenty-one students and faculty from a variety of programs in the Edwards School are joining together for the trip: Land & Water Management, Agribusiness, Agriculture, Baking Foundations, Civil Technology and Culinary Arts.

While in Italy, the group will enjoy Italian language classes, tour areas rich in cultural culinary heritage and history, and learn more about the connections from agriculture to food products. The tour is led by local experts and producers, offering an authentic and in-depth look at some of the food systems of Italy that are well-regarded around the world.

“I am excited to learn more about the Roman style of architecture in Italy, and see how it compares to Canada and the way things are built here,” said Aidyn Pearce, a second year Civil Technology (Municipal Engineering) student. “It will be unique to be immersed in the culture for two weeks. I look forward to bringing knowledge on the culture and processes home.”

Students’ participation is partially covered by the college’s Global Experience Fund, designed to support student academic experiences abroad.

For Culinary Arts student, Tyra Hart, this will be an experience of a life time.

“Not only will this be my first time travelling outside of Canada, it’s my first time leaving Manitoba,” said Hart. “The most exciting part about this trip for me is just being able to travel and see what's out there. It'll be an exciting 2 weeks learning about another country but to experience it first-hand feels kind of surreal. I'm extremely grateful for this opportunity.”

As part of the college’s International Strategy, Assiniboine International is working to introduce other new study-abroad opportunities in other countries for students in various programs in the coming academic year.