By Whitney Baxter
For students who have not traveled outside the contiguous United States before, the new For the Love of Food and Puerto Rico Study USA program may be just the right ticket.
Erica Beirman, teaching professor in food science and human nutrition, led the study experience in May alongside Karla Boetel, professor of practice in food science and human nutrition. Beirman said the Puerto Rico trip, currently offered every other year, can be a great first step into international travel because of the island’s proximity to the U.S. and the relatively low cost of the program, thanks in part to donors.
During the nine-day excursion, students were immersed in the Puerto Rican culture. They learned about the island’s culinary heritage, food processing industries and agricultural practices, while considering how those differed from those in the Midwest. They visited a cacao (chocolate) farm and a guava farm and made cheese that will be shipped to them this fall.
Graci Venerable, a senior in dietetics, connected the dots between what she had learned in her food science courses to work being done on the chocolate farms.
“We learned about the scientific process of making chocolate, and my background in food science gave me a deeper appreciation for the food,” Venerable said. “This experience has given me a new appreciation for where food comes from and the many hours people contribute to produce a quality product.”
Jaritza Gomez, a junior in culinary food science, wanted to participate in this program to learn how different foods are made in other parts of the world and explore potential career opportunities through company visits.
“I really enjoyed the community in Puerto Rico; everyone we met was charming,” Gomez said. “At every company we visited, the people talked about their work with such passion. It just seemed they really loved what they do.”
Beirman hopes the students walked away from the experience with a greater appreciation for the spirit of the people on the island.
“We wanted them to understand the innovation and entrepreneurial mindset of the Puerto Rican people and how they’re able to make the most out of what few resources they have,” Beirman said. “I hope this Study USA program acts as a springboard to encourage students to get out and see other parts of the world.”
Planning is already underway for the next For the Love of Food and Puerto Rico program. Beirman said they expect to take up to 11 students in May 2027.
“If you are looking for a trip with beautiful scenery, delicious food and a chance to learn about local agriculture, this is the one,” Venerable said.