The summer took us across the ocean to the United Kingdom where we were able to represent the great state of New Mexico as part of the Innovation and Trade mission trip coordinated with New Mexico Department of Agriculture.
Our adventure started with meetings at the US Embassy, tour of Keys Garden and Parliament. It was exciting to sit across the table with our group of New Mexicans but also hear the voices of the people involved in the United Kingdom agricultural industry. After our meetings in London, we traveled to Scotland, where we toured some very nice farms. We were able to visit both livestock and farming operations. Their struggles are much like ours here in the U.S. and some common ground was a good way to forge a relationship.
From our class perspective, this trip pushed us out of our comfort zone or at least speaking for myself. I have traveled aboard before but always had someone I knew on the "other side." We conquered traveling by public transportation and by the end of it were professionals. It was a very convenient way to travel. Not sure how I would get my horse around that way but where there is a will there is a way.
I am grateful for the time with my fellow Class 15 members to build on our relationships as well as gain new relationships with our group members and international contacts. Traveling aboard always gives you perspective of what you have and opens your eyes to the many possibilities that are out in the world. The agricultural community is strong no matter what country you are in. We find common ground because of the passion we share for this industry. Our trip was amazing and can't wait until our next adventure.
