02/27/2026 | Press release | Archived content
Article by Molly Schafer Photos courtesy of Jennifer Reith, Erika Mathews, Erin Curry and Tiffany Carro | Photo illustration by Molly Schafer February 27, 2026
In 2003, four adventurous animal science majors embarked on a University of Delaware study abroad program in New Zealand. The Blue Hens toured sheep farms, studying new ways to intertwine agriculture and sustainability. They also explored New Zealand's beautiful countryside, hiking glaciers and white water rafting.
"I remember thinking, 'We're going to be first down this river,'" Tiffany Carro, UD Class of 2004 (B.S.) and 2007 (M.S.) alumna, said of the rafting trip.
But somewhere between the beautiful scenery and enlightening conversations with new friends, Carro's goal changed.
"We tried to extend the trip as long as possible," Carro said. "We stopped for cliff jumping and impromptu swims. Sometimes we pulled in our paddles to just flow with the current."