Entrepreneurial EmphasisEARTH’s curriculum is devoted to honing students’ entrepreneurial skills, giving them the confidence and knowledge to develop profitable, environmentally viable and socially responsible businesses. To foster such an industrious mindset, student teams are required to develop an agribusiness during their first year, which they run until the end of their third year. Historically, approximately 60 percent of these student-run businesses have been profitable.
Experiential Learning Third-year students have the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in the sustainable management of a farm/business in a rural community. The curriculum also strengthens students’ professional attitudes and skills to assure positive interactions with farmers and rural community members. Additionally, as an integral part of their curriculum,, third-year students participate in a 15-week internship, typically in their country of origin. Students gain invaluable hands-on experience during their internships and are also required to participate in a community service project. EARTH students have interned in more than 40 countries worldwide.
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving During their fourth year, students must exhibit their intellectual and professional abilities in analysis, synthesis, critical thinking and creativity by identifying and solving agricultural and environmental problems to enhance sustainable agriculture and natural resource management processes. The learning process focuses on an agricultural or agro-industrial business and local rural communities, and is structured to provide students the opportunity to demonstrate their professional abilities.
Results – Holistic Education Produces Exceptional Agricultural Professionals EARTH’s holistic approach to education develops agricultural professionals capable of building consensus and finding innovative solutions to the region’s poverty and land use issues. The growth of sustainable businesses, including family and small farm operations, is an important factor in eradicating poverty. By helping create healthy economies, EARTH graduates contribute to peace and stability in the region, which benefits the entire global community.
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