Seeds, Coffee, and Sustainability: Lessons from Colombia

Participating in the short-term study abroad program in Cali, Colombia (CPSC 499) at the International Center for Agriculture (CIAT) was an amazing academic experience.

Through the program, I gained knowledge about CIAT’s research on plant breeding for rice, cassava, and other popular crops. CIAT’s research doesn’t just help Colombia. For example, researchers around the world can request seeds and information from their seed bank.

I was also able to learn and experience the social and economic importance of crops like coffee and cassava in Colombia and how global collaboration is essential in addressing food security and climate change.  

Some of the most meaningful experiences for me personally were the visits to the coffee region and the local university.

Coffee and cafes are a fixture of social life in the U.S., and it was fascinating to see the origin of the beverage. Seeing that connection between the coffee I might order at a café and the place where it is grown helped me develop an understanding and appreciation for all the farmers and people who have put in so much work to produce that product.

Visting the university provided a real opportunity to connect with Cali locals on a personal level. We learned about our student chaperone’s study and life and got to share what our own school and home lives are like.

Overall, the experience broadened my worldview and helped me think about the connections of agriculture, environment, and sustainability. It also encouraged me to embrace flexibility and adaptability when working across different cultural challenges and in different/new physical environments.

Meeting researchers who are passionately committed to improving livelihoods while protecting ecosystems inspired me to pursue a similar path and reminded me how the commitment to finding solutions in agriculture is a responsibility we all share across borders. This program not only enriched my education but also shaped the direction of my career and personal values towards work that creates agricultural systems that are both sustainable and just.

Daniela Flemenbaum is a junior in Agronomy in the College of ACES. This short-term study abroad experience will run again during May 2026. All majors can apply! Learn more.