New Mexico State University opens doors to new adventures, and for students Savannah Tuss and Jayda Goodson, one such door led to a nine-day trip to the United Kingdom in May.
“This trip was much more than a sightseeing opportunity,” said Tuss, an NMSU sophomore and state 4-H military ambassador. “It gave us the chance to learn about agriculture from a global perspective while developing leadership skills and representing New Mexico 4-H. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity and would encourage other young people to take advantage of experiences like this whenever they can.”
“I enjoyed seeing the differences between agricultural production in England and the U.S.,” said Goodson, an NMSU sophomore and FFA 2025-2026 state president. “Farms there are generally a lot smaller than many of our large-scale operations here, but the neat thing was that no matter the size of the farm, we all have the same goal: to provide food for our nation at a safe and economically sustainable capacity.”
The NMSU delegation included 17 students from the 4-H and FFA Leadership Teams – many traveling internationally for the first time – along with support staff.
The group visited farms, agricultural businesses, higher education institutions such as Harper Adams University, and industry leaders across England and Wales.
“The trip was an incredible educational and cultural experience for the New Mexico 4-H Leadership team,” said Teresa Dean, Cooperative Extension Service Doña Ana County program director and state 4-H Leadership Team adviser. “It provided youth with the opportunity to expand their understanding of international agriculture, leadership and global food systems while representing New Mexico abroad.”
The trip was funded through a private donation in collaboration with the British Embassy in Washington, D.C., and New Mexico Department of Agriculture Sec. Jeff Witte.
“The ability to sit around a table and talk about our passions, no matter the background, is truly inspiring, especially for people in our generation,” Goodson said.
The group was introduced to the rich history, unique culture and deep-rooted traditions of the UK while exploring historic landmarks including Stonehenge, Salisbury Cathedral, Bletchley Park, the Tower of London and the Palace of Westminster.
“From standing in places filled with centuries of history to visiting world-renowned landmarks, the trip helped students gain a broader understanding of the world while also building confidence, curiosity and appreciation for different cultures,” Dean said. “It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combined agriculture, leadership, history and personal growth all into one journey.”
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CUTLINE: A New Mexico State University delegation of 17 FFA and 4-H Leadership Team members and support staff traveled to the United Kingdom for a nine-day trip in May. (NMSU photo by Taysha Walter)