Experiential learning: Students at a research and education center

Students, including interns, undergraduate and graduate levels, are provided with opportunities to evaluate their interests both in research and extension activities to make choices to advance their education and career path. They are engaged in several ongoing projects designed to solve real-world problems through understanding the biology, ecology and management of insects and mite pests. They are also provided with the opportunity to participate in seminars, workshops, and field days, and they develop their skills in delivering information to the target audience as they interact with sponsors, growers, researchers, and extension agents. Students and scholars develop and design their projects and collect, analyze, present, and publish their research through various channels. As a scientist, they mature through presenting their research to the stakeholders from local and state level grower and professional meetings to national and international forums and publishing in industry magazines and high-impact professional refereed journals. This experience finally help them find positions in academia and industry.