I thank MSUFCU for supporting me and allowing me to participate in the 2022 Global Food Systems and Health study abroad. My classmates and I visited France and Italy to learn about the impact that food and nutritional systems have on a population’s overall health.

In the three weeks abroad, we were given the opportunity to learn about the significance of the Mediterranean diet, food culture and food regulations; on top of that, we also got to visit amazing historic attractions!

Guest lectures, readings, and new food experiences allowed me to understand the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet and its importance in European culture. Food plays a huge role in expressing social interactions, agriculture, and the history of Europe. Each country has its nationalized food that is enriched in history and plays a role in the country’s agricultural business.

My experience abroad has further developed my interest in learning about food systems, food chemistry, and the significance that food has on health disparities. The program allowed me to visualize the importance of food systems and nutritional diets on a global level. It has also allowed me to modify my own nutritional diet and further research sustainable diets. The study has inspired me to further research causes of food insecurities, health disparities, and to understand the business aspect of the food industry. I want to become active in food policy laws and consider the health field of epidemiology to help improve health disparities in the United States.

I am very thankful for this life-changing experience that allowed me to learn more about European culture and food systems. I will always look back on this experience, as it has given me some direction that I believe will help me in my future career. I highly recommend that students take the chance to study abroad; it is a unique experience that can teach students about other cultures and about themselves. Exposure to new ideas tends to also make us look into ourselves.

Back from my program, I feel more determined to travel around the world, and ready to pursue graduate school. Once again, I would like to thank MSUFCU for this wonderful opportunity, and for encouraging me to follow my dreams!

Name: Zayna Suleiman
Status: Senior
Major: Nutritional Science
Hometown: Lansing, Michigan
Program: Global Food Systems and Health in France and Italy