I recently returned from a two week trip to the UK. I figured this was a safe place to start studying abroad. After all, we share the same language, and have many of the same customs. I was also glad for this trip because it directly involved my field of interest, agriculture communications. Yes, this trip was going to be fun and relaxing, and navigating British culture and agriculture shouldn't be too hard!
Well, I was wrong. Believe it or not, even though we speak the same language, London is quite the melting pot of people, and each has a different accent. I can't tell you how many times I asked, "what did you say?" to a waiter or cashier. Speaking wasn't the only challenge. Any time you take this Nebraska Cowgirl out of the country, and put her in a city, she will become lost. After a few days, I mastered London's underground system, but still struggled to find my
way above ground. Many times, what should have been a ten minute trip, turned into a 20 minute journey (yes, I'm from Nebraska, we measure distance in the amount of time it takes to get to the destination.) Even cultural differences in customer service, and small town friendliness threw me for a loop. To read all the stories from the trip click here
The common ground I found on the Isle was agriculture. As we met with folks from different ag entities, I heard the same passion and excitement in their voices. They too struggle with educating their citizens about agriculture. One difference is the voice of dissenters. While here in the US we struggle against the voices that claim we are a heartless money-hungary industry, In the UK, they are trying to share that agriculture is a legitimate industry, not just hobby farmers. Other topics like organic, and local foods are relevant no matter what side of the Atlantic you're on.
It was an eye-opening journey. I learned to appreciate a warm shower and my cell phone (neither worked in the UK). The history of their country, and their agriculture is also unique and interesting. Advocating in England would be an exciting challenge, and it helped to inspire me to continue working to spread the word. Although I'm going to miss London, it's good to be back home among my cows and fields, which beat any palace or castle!
(Myself and fellow UNL students in front of Hampton Courts Palace)
'till the cows come home,
Ellie
No comments:
Post a Comment