Pressure from parents and the lack of other choices are oftentimes heard as reasons for taking Agriculture in college. But these reasons are not true to Angela Zamudio, a 3rd-year Agri-business student and a CCMF-Bikol scholar at Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA). She believes that since her course is business-related, she can expand the knowledge she gained in her senior high years. “It can also be a great help in preparation for future decisions I will make,” she added.

As Angela performs well in her academics, she was chosen as one of CBSUA’s representatives in the Philippine-Okinawa Japan Exchange Program last October 7. In the exchange program, students from various universities are required to virtually attend a meeting which aimed to unite cultures and to call for mutual understanding.

Visiting abroad is one of her dreams, and though the exchange program was held online, Angela was thankful. “At least I had the chance to have a sneak peek of the culture of Japan. Thanks to my course,” she said.

Moreover, Angela said she was able to see the importance of language appreciation and diversity. “Every opportunity must be taken. Agriculture as a degree is a good choice to be prepared in the international scene,” she added.

Angela has high hopes that in the years to come, the Philippines will be a few steps closer to becoming a developed country. “I want to see great development and innovation in agriculture where we do not need to import products from other countries,” she said. She wants to see herself in the near future helping local agriculture, guided by various farming and business principles.