Alumni Spotlight: Elizabeth Ridolfi

Elizabeth is from Auburn, California but lives in Davis. She is an Environmental Horticulture Major. She spends most of her free time chasing her cat around and preventing him from getting into mischief.

female hiking

Why did you pick this program?

Elizabeth: I picked this program because I wanted real research experience and to travel abroad.

What do you wish someone had told you before you went abroad?

Elizabeth: I didn't want advice. I wanted to learn on my own.

What is the most important thing you learned abroad?

Elizabeth: Problem solving and communication. My people skills got a work out.

What do you tell your friends who are thinking about going abroad?

Elizabeth: DO IT and keep an open mind!

What was the hardest part about going abroad?

Elizabeth: Trying to not get frustrated at the new changes and adjustments you have to make to yourself.

What's your favorite story to tell about your time abroad?

Elizabeth: I love to tell people about the trek through the Himalayas and the sinking in quicksand, leech encounters and beautiful scenery.

What made this experience unique and special?

Elizabeth: Bhutan is a country that most people will never go to or see. Many people have not even heard of it. Just to go there was an honor.

Tell us about an experience you had that you could not have had at home.

Elizabeth: Climbing a mountain in a driving rainstorm was one of the proudest moments of my life. Even after climbing another taller mountain a month later, that mountain in Bhutan has to be my proudest moment.

bhutan fields

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

Elizabeth: Keep and open mind and do not stress out if something doesn't work the first time.

What made this trip meaningful to you, or how did this trip change your perceptions, future path?

Elizabeth: This trip proved that I was made out of much sterner stuff than people gave me credit for.