The University of New England’s (UNE) Agribusiness Study Tour has officially begun, with 18 students and two academics touching down in Chicago, USA. The program, led by Professor Derek Baker and Associate Professor Dr Stuart Mounter from the UNE Business School, offers students a unique opportunity to gain global insights into agribusiness and agricultural economics.
This year’s tour focuses on the US Midwest, with stops in Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, and Iowa. Students will visit a diverse range of agribusinesses, including beef cattle and dairy farms, hydroponic production facilities, and major industry players like John Deere and Bayer Crop Science. The itinerary also includes visits to Purdue University and the University of Illinois, fostering cross-cultural academic engagement.
Dr Stuart Mounter highlighted the program’s value in preparing students for careers in agribusiness. “This is an opportunity for students to broaden their perceptions of global agribusiness and increase their cultural awareness,” he said. “It’s about professional and personal development, as well as expanding employment prospects.”
It’s about professional and personal development, as well as expanding employment prospects.
The program combines experiential learning with case study methodologies, allowing students to develop practical skills such as teamwork, communication, and leadership. “Students are exposed to real-world experiences that enhance their professional knowledge and analytical abilities,” Dr Mounter explained.
Since its inception in 2015, the study tour has evolved significantly. Originally tied to the International Food and Agribusiness Management Association (IFAMA) Student Case Competition, the program now focuses on partnerships with institutions like Purdue University. These collaborations not only enrich the student experience but also strengthen UNE’s international profile.
Dr Mounter emphasised the importance of such partnerships:
“Engaging with institutions like Purdue promotes student and staff exchanges, consolidates study programs, and fosters cross-institutional research collaborations.”
The program is open to all UNE students enrolled in OSSE300 or OSSE500, with applications requiring an expression of interest outlining career aspirations. For more information, students can contact Professor Baker or Dr Mounter directly.
As the 2025 cohort embarks on this transformative journey, they join a legacy of UNE students who have gained invaluable insights and skills through the program. “Past participants have reported increased cultural awareness, global perspectives, and practical skills that have significantly benefited their careers,” Dr Mounter noted.
The UNE Agribusiness Study Tour continues to be a flagship initiative, equipping students with the tools to thrive in a globalised agribusiness landscape.
