Just under a month ago, I arrived at Colorado State University in the United States. Within this short time, I have already had the privilege of gaining valuable insights into US Livestock Business Management, Food and Agricultural Markets as well as Live Animal and Carcass Evaluation.
Last week CSU celebrated Ag Week; a week that is all about celebrating Colorado agriculture, showcasing a number of events, exhibits and activities. I feel very fortunate to have had the chance to attend a number of these amazing engagements. A few of my highlights include…
•CSU Beef Improvement Centre
Jacob and I had the privilege of travelling up to the John E. Rouse Beef Improvement Centre to learn more about the Ranch and see where we will be working over the duration of our internship. The Ranch is especially impressive and I am excited to begin working up there. I am particularly looking forward to the National Stock Western Show in January 2026 and the annual Bull sale in April 2026.
•Expert Panel with Dr. John K. Matsushima.
Dr. John K. Matsushima, aged 104, revolutionized the cattle industry by pioneering the steam-flaking of corn, which significantly improved feed efficiency and reduced costs in beef production. His innovations in feedlot nutrition, carcass quality, and cattle health transformed modern cattle feeding practices. The panel was truly inspiring and I am honoured to have had the chance to connect with such a prominent industry leader that has such a highly regarded international legacy in Animal Science.
•‘World Without Cows’ screening.
The College of Agricultural Sciences and Warner College of Natural Resources hosted a screening of ‘World Without Cows’. This Alltech documentary explores the vital role of ruminants in global food systems, considering their effects on economics, nutrition, culture and the environment in over 40 locations worldwide, asking the question: are we better off without them.
•Nutrienltd Ag Day BBQ.
Finishing off Ag Week with the annual Nutrienltd Ag Day BBQ and Aggie Orange Out for our first CSU Rams football game of the season. The event features locally grown and raised food, exhibits and educational activities, helping to support student success and agricultural education and outreach in Colorado.
•Education Abroad Expo.
I was proud to represent Lincoln University at the CSU Education Abroad Fair hosted by the Office of International Programs, sharing our experiences, knowledge and supporting other students looking to study abroad. In addition to this, I am looking forward to travelling to a local primary next week school to share what it was like growing up in New Zealand.
I am especially grateful to the people and organisations whose support has made this experience possible. I have had an amazing start to my exchange and am excited for what is to come.