I start this post in a plane. This time I am returning to New York after teaching the week-long intensive study abroad course Global Food Cultures: Puerto Rico. The course was a wonderful and rewarding teaching collaboration with fellow NYU professor, Gustavo Setrini. Through months of planning, we successfully combined expertise and interest in different aspects of the food system, and our different experiences in Puerto Rico.
The week started with a traditional meal at La Casita Miramar, followed by an early morning trip to the center of the island. We learned about pineapples, colonial sugar plantation systems, as well as coffee production and tasting. The journey carried on through the food system, continuing with distribution, marketing and consumption. It was amazing to witness the course unfold, and how the connections between the different aspects of the food system fell beautifully into place. Moreover, the experience allowed me to learn about my Puerto Rico through a new sets of eyes – 13 pairs to be exact!
Atenas Pineapple Plantation
Hydroponic Agriculture at the University of Puerto Rico in Utuado
Dairy farm in Hatillo
Departamento de la Comida
Student interaction at the University of Puerto Rico Medical Campus
Tasting and conversation at Verde Mesa in Old San Juan
Visit with Secretary of Agriculture, Dr. Mirna Comas.
Urban gardening at the Cano Martin Pena
Enjoying home-made limbers
Fresh carrucho (conch) from La Comay in Loiza
Tasting and conversing at Orujo Taller de Gastronomia in Caguas
Final activity at the Centro de Estudios Avanzados del Caribe in Old San Juan
The week’s activities are documented through individual student essays in the following blog: https://nyufoodstudiespr.wordpress.com/
Read, enjoy and share!
Amazed with all that you and your fellow professor where able to accomplish in just a week.I am sure that it was an excellent experience for all that participated. Congratulations and many more to come.