Vol 59 (1), Mar 2015

 

The purpose of this study was to explore the competencies and experiences valued by prospective employers in the agriculture and natural resources (ANR) industry to understand if study abroad experiences increase employability. All recruiters agreed interpersonal communication and leadership skills are necessary to be effective in their organizations and a majority of the recruiters had an interest in hiring employees with previous study abroad experience despite somewhat ambivalent views on the importance of cultural and global competencies for employees. Facilitators of study abroad programs in ANR should emphasize the skills sought by recruiters and overtly create opportunities for students to develop these skills.