The Ohio International Intern Program (TOP) recently traveled to Honduras to strengthen university partnerships, meet prospective applicants and expand access to career-building agricultural experiences in the United States.
Victor Arboleda, career counselor with TOP, visited Zamorano, the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Honduras at its Atlantic Coast regional campus (UNAH-CURLA) and the Universidad Nacional de Agricultura (UNAG).
The visit reflected a central part of TOP’s work: building trusted relationships with universities, students, alumni and industry partners so that international internships become more accessible, better understood and more closely connected to professional goals.
Listening first at Zamorano
At Zamorano, Arboleda met with academic leaders and program coordinators to discuss TOP internship opportunities, the recruitment process and possibilities for future collaboration. He also presented the program to students and held individual conversations with prospective applicants.
These face-to-face exchanges allowed students to ask practical questions about eligibility, the application process, English preparation and internship placements. Just as importantly, the meetings helped TOP hear directly from faculty members about the skills and experiences their students are seeking.
Opening a new chapter with UNAH-CURLA
The trip included TOP’s first official visit to UNAH-CURLA in La Ceiba. The connection grew from relationships with current and former program participants and developed into meetings with campus leadership, academic representatives and communications staff.
Discussions focused on establishing clearer channels of communication and helping students understand how an international internship can complement their academic preparation. Conversations with alumni also demonstrated how one internship can continue to create value through graduate study, professional networks and leadership.
Expanding awareness at UNAG
At UNAG, Arboleda introduced TOP to university leadership and delivered two student information sessions. Students received an overview of program eligibility, application requirements and available fields of professional experience.
The visit created a foundation for continued institutional dialogue and gave students a direct opportunity to connect their agricultural studies with professional development in an international setting.
Strong international programs are built through sustained relationships, not one-time recruitment.
Why university visits matter
University visits help TOP understand local academic programs, communicate expectations clearly and identify ways to support students before they begin an internship.
For partner universities, the relationship creates another avenue for experiential learning and professional growth. For host organizations in the United States, it expands access to motivated international talent. For students, it turns a distant possibility into a visible and achievable professional pathway.
Looking ahead
TOP will continue following up with university contacts and prospective applicants in Honduras. The program remains committed to strengthening connections across Latin America and linking emerging agricultural professionals with practical experience, cultural exchange and industry networks in the United States.
Explore an international internship
Students interested in agricultural or horticultural training opportunities can learn more and begin the inquiry process through the TOP inbound application. Universities and prospective partners may contact TOP at top@osu.edu.