Grzesiak Participates In B1G Life Series: Agriculture Experience
BLOOOMINGTON, Ind. - Indiana women’s soccer junior forward Marisa Grzesiak participated in The Big Life Farm Trip June 25-June 27 in Cedar Rapids and Mt Vernon, Iowa. She shares her experience below.
I had the opportunity to connect with other student-athletes, coaches, and administrators from all the other Big Ten schools, as well as with those from the conference headquarters The Big Life Farm Trip was a wonderful and highly educational experience. I was honored to represent Indiana University during this trip. Coming from a background not near any farm, this experience taught me what it means to live and work on a farm. The Kroul Farm, a family-owned enterprise, stands out from others due to its diversity across various avenues of agribusiness. They raise cattle, grow fruits and vegetables, cultivate corn and soy, engage in timber cutting and contribute to expanding prairie lands in Iowa. I was deeply impressed by their willingness to explore new business ventures, embodying the essence of agribusiness.
I thoroughly enjoyed this experience because it introduced me to a way of life I had never encountered before, despite its significant impact on me. Being on the farm was eye-opening, witnessing firsthand the dedication, planning, and communication required to operate a successful agribusiness.
With the Big Ten welcoming four new institutions, it was a pleasure to see the entire conference gathered in one place to welcome UCLA, USC, Washington, and Oregon. Networking and meeting student-athletes outside of their respective sports was a great pleasure. It was particularly enjoyable to interact with women soccer players from other schools in a different setting. I highly recommend that all Indiana University student-athletes consider participating in the B1G Life Farm Trip in the future.
About Big Life Series
The “Big Life Series” is a cornerstone initiative led by the Big Ten’s Community and Impact team and highlights the conference’s ongoing commitment to create world class educational experiences for Big Ten student-athletes, coaches, and administrators.
About Big Life Series: Agriculture Experience
36 student-athletes will experience an immersive educational opportunity that strengthens our universities ties to agriculture and exposes participants to careers in farming. This experience will take place on Kroul Farms outside of Cedar Rapids, Iowa which is owned and operated by former Iowa football student-athlete, Matt Kroul, and his wife Nicole. Farmer Wisconsin student-athlete Marcus Carpenter from Routh 1 will provide insights on diverse farmers. Those in attendance will receive education on indigenous and cultural identities, agricultural laborers, sustainable agriculture, and farm ownership. In addition to educational opportunities there are also hands-on experiences.