Agricultural Leaders of Tomorrow is designed to give university students majoring in agricultural studies the opportunity to increase their English language skills and broaden their knowledge of American agricultural practices through classes and practical experiences. All MITI programs integrate the philosophy of living English to enhance cultural and language skills in a unique way.

Components

• Agricultural seminars and site visits (20 instruction hours): Program participants will complete coursework in agricultural topics, with the intention of integrating all aspects of agricultural into a big-picture model. Taught by MU professors, the seminars and site visits are structured to demonstrate how various fields — such as entomology, animal science, crop science and engineering — interact within the larger field of agriculture.
• Professional Communication (20 instruction hours): This course covers public speaking, cross-cultural communication and debate/negotiating. It provides participants with rigorous, interactive activities that emphasize speaking, listening, pronunciation, critical thinking and professional presentation skills. Each student is required to participate in group work, facilitate discussion on a topic of their choice and give a formal final presentation.
• Global Leadership Development (18 instruction hours): An intensive exploration of the art of leadership, including the personal qualities, skills and knowledge of a good leader, different leadership styles and how to improve leadership skills.
• Cultural field trips (minimum 30 hours): During this program, students will go on cultural and professional excursions to other cities near Columbia, possibly including St. Louis, Kansas City, Hermann, Hannibal and Jefferson City. They will also take part in local festivals and activities.
• American ambassadors: The program opens doors for students to make meaningful relationships with American college students during their time at MU, with the intent that they will see many perspectives of American culture and return home with a more significant global view.