When in Rome: Tennessee Ag Students Connect Ancient Building Techniques to Modern Agriculture

University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture students traveled to Italy to study Roman and medieval construction, gaining a unique global educational experience.

KNOXVILLE, TENN. (RFD News) — Students at the University of Tennessee are taking their agriculture knowledge beyond the classroom through international study.

During a recent trip to Italy, students explored other fields connected to agriculture, including construction.

The group participated in a Roman and Medieval Construction Era abroad program, spending two weeks in Rome and Florence. The experience focused on how ancient construction methods compare to modern-day building practices.

Students studied techniques such as brick and masonry work, along with structural elements like arches that remain common in construction today.

Student Nick Dunn says the program offered a rare opportunity.

“I chose to study abroad program because it was something unique to our major. It is the first time that we’re going to be doing this and coming to Rome.”

About 100 Herbert College of Agriculture students studied abroad over the past year. The program combines efforts from the college and the Smith Center for International Sustainable Agriculture.

In the past year, UT Herbert College of Agriculture faculty and students have visited countries including Argentina, Costa Rica, Croatia, and Greece.

UTIA’s Charles Denney reporting for RFD NEWS.

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