Digging In: Study Abroad Experiences, Community, Sustainability and the Edible Campus Program
Hear from Isabelle, who is doing a year abroad at the University of California Santa Barbara. ‘Digging’ into her study abroad experience, she has become involved in the university’s edible campus program which has allowed her to meet new friends, learn about sustainability initiatives, volunteer and attend community events!
Having just entered my 3rd month at the University of California Santa Barbara (UCSB), I have been reflecting on my experiences so far. Alongside the great people I have already met, fascinating classes and amazing adventures including camping in the desert, bonfires on the beach, hot springs hiking and an outdoor cinema, I have been really struck by the range of clubs organised by the student community. The focus on environmental and sustainability goals has been particularly exciting to me, with clubs ranging from environmental law, campaigns, education in local schools and events including clothing reuse and beach cleans.



Last month I attended my first community gardening event as part of the Edible Campus Program:
The Edible Campus Program aims to address local food insecurity by repurposing underutilized spaces for sustainable food production, turning waste into food, and engaging students as growers and producers. We train students in practices that address social, economic, and environmental aspects of sustainability and help them to reclaim their personal connection to the land and their food.(https://www.sustainability.ucsb.edu/edible-campus)
The food grown is then shared amongst local residents, whilst the program provides an opportunity for students to meet and learn practical skills. Tasks for that day included writing up signs for the herbs, watering in new plants and weeding new beds. It was interesting to see the different plants that grow in California’s climate and meet both full time and fellow study abroad students interested in local food security and strengthening the health of green spaces through gardening.


Alongside garden volunteering projects the program also organised local street parties and workshops including growing indoor microgreens, beach walks, creating hydroponic garden jars, indoor gardening and pot painting. I am excited to see what other opportunities I can get involved in throughout the year!