Rebecca VanderHeiden

Rebecca headshot
Department
Agronomy
Program
Greece and Italy: Food, Culture and Agriculture
Studying abroad allows students to step outside their comfort zone and experience new cultures, perspectives and ways of life firsthand.

Why do you choose to lead study abroad programs? 

Group Photo

I decided to co-lead a travel course because I’m passionate about creating meaningful, real-world learning experiences for students beyond the classroom. It’s especially rewarding to help students experience a new country and culture for the first time, broadening their perspectives and building confidence in unfamiliar environments.

What is unique about your study abroad destination(s)? Why do you want to take students to this country? 

What makes this travel course unique is that students have the opportunity to visit two countries and experience a diverse range of cultures and histories in one program. They will explore iconic and beautiful cities such as Rome, Naples, Pompeii, Athens, and Thessaloniki.

Give an example of your favorite city, tour, tradition, or activity included within your program itinerary. 

This will be my first time traveling to Italy and Greece, so I am excited to learn more about Mediterranean culture alongside fellow students. I am looking forward to Riccardo's cooking class, learning how to make pasta from scratch!

Pasta making class

Why should students study abroad?

Studying abroad allows students to step outside their comfort zone and experience new cultures, perspectives and ways of life firsthand.group italy

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