4-H member visits Greece

SENECA COUNTY — When Seneca County 4-H student Lauren Petronella boarded the plane for Greece this March, the trip promised something more than sights: a new way of thinking about agriculture, sustainability and community. Petronella, a senior and active member of Seneca County 4-H, was one of 15 students from around Ohio selected to participate in a 10-day cultural immersion trip through Ohio 4-H. The selected students traveled to Thessaloniki and spent time at the American Farm School, studying food science and plant production adapted to their local students. "It was a really culturally rich experience," Petronella said. "We got to learn so much-not just in classes, but by talking to the students and seeing how their lives and communities are different from ours." The trip was balanced between hands-on learning and cultural discovery. Visit by visit, Petronella gained priceless experience-internships and visiting cities, including a busy farmers market. "In Greece, farmers' markets are basically their grocery stores," according to Petronella. "Everything is local, and the agriculture there is so much more sustainable. They don't rely on big companies. It's all small-scale and diverse." Petronella, a beekeeper, looked forward to meeting a local beekeeper and comparing notes on techniques. It left a lasting impression to have that opportunity for one-on-one exchange. "That was such a cool experience. I could have talked to him all day," Petronella added. It was also clear by observing the diversity of crops and the lack of monoculture how important local food systems are. Petronella came away with a deeper understanding of small-scale farming and its role in food security and environmental health. Petronella first heard of the opportunity at a Junior Leadership meeting; inspiration from 4-H educator Katie Cole made things happen. "I'm so thankful for her," said Petronella. "She's the reason I even knew about the trip in the first place." Adult leaders included Warren County Extension Educator Steve Brady, Ohio State University Professor Brian Raisin, and Extension Specialist Margot Overholt-Seckel. Their efforts added depth and structure for the group while giving students the time to invest in the program. Now in its second year, this trip to Greece has joined a quickly growing list of overseas travel options through Ohio 4-H. Although it remains uncertain whether participants can be repeated in the same program, others have gone on to join different cultural exchanges, including one in Puerto Rico.