From Colombia to College Station, in search of an Aggie leadership education

Growing up in Colombia, attending college in the U.S. wasn’t initially on Miguel Diaz’s radar. However, meeting other international students who raved about the unique Aggie experience at Texas A&M University changed his academic trajectory.

Diaz considered the language and cultural challenges and the distance from family and friends when deciding about heading to Texas.

But he believed the rewards outweighed any hurdles and began his quest to blend a passion for agriculture and biology with a societal curiosity as a doctoral student in the Texas A&M Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications.

The department, he decided, offered him an unparalleled opportunity for a world-class education. And ultimately, although his path changed course, his time as a graduate student and research assistant at the Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications was a critical stop on his education journey.

Aggies leave a lasting impression

Diaz grew up in the Andean Mountain town of Paipa. After high school, he traded small-town serenity for the hustle and bustle of city life in Bogotá, where he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

He first heard about Texas A&M during an internship at the University of São Paulo in Brazil.

“During my time there, I had the opportunity to meet several Aggies who were also participating in internships, as well as Brazilian students who had previously completed internships at Texas A&M,” he said. “Their enthusiasm and positive experiences left a lasting impression on me. They frequently spoke about the university’s impressive campus, the vibrant football tradition and the strong sense of community that permeates the Aggie network. This initial exposure stayed with me for years.”

When Diaz began considering potential doctorate programs, he remembered those words from the former students. He said Texas A&M naturally resurfaced in his considerations, prompting him to explore the institution further.

“My research confirmed what I had heard; Texas A&M was highly ranked in my field of study,” Diaz said. “The combination of its academic reputation and the community spirit I remembered made it a compelling choice.”

Finding his calling

As a child, Diaz said his aspirations varied widely. He dreamed of becoming a high school science teacher, a biologist and even a musician. However, as he grew older, he realized the importance of adapting his aspirations to his evolving interests and strengths.

“My interest in my field began with a passion for natural sciences, particularly biology and chemistry, and their applications in agriculture,” he said. “As I delved deeper, I became increasingly curious about the interplay between social factors and technical components within agricultural systems.”

That curiosity led him to explore how social dynamics influence agricultural practices and decision-making. Diaz wanted to understand why people behave in certain ways, how they make decisions and what factors shape their understanding of agricultural topics.

“I have been driven by a desire to uncover the pedagogical elements related to the environment and agriculture,” Diaz said. “These interests have guided me on my academic journey and fueled my dedication to studying agricultural leadership, education and communications.”

Although Diaz isn’t yet sure if he will end up in academia or industry after completing his doctorate, he knows he wants to honor the personal and educational opportunities he has been fortunate enough to receive in a manner that will allow him to give back to the community in a meaningful way.

Educational mentors

Mentors have played a crucial role in Diaz’s academic journey from Brazil to Colombia and then to College Station.

Professors in São Paulo introduced him to the world of social sciences in agriculture and laid the foundation for his studies. Mentorship during his master’s studies at the University of Colombia encouraged him and guided Diaz through the intricacies of environmental research and provided him theoretical and practical insights.

At Texas A&M, Diaz has been fortunate to have many encouraging and outstanding instructors, but Dara Wald, Ph.D., associate professor of environmental communication and co-leader of the Science Communications Lab in the Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communications, has been particularly influential.

“Dr. Wald introduced me to the field of environmental communications,” Diaz said. “She taught me that quality research is a meticulous process that requires patience and attention to detail. Her emphasis on thoroughness and her supportive guidance have significantly shaped my approach to research.”

Diaz said his professors imparted knowledge and inspired him to pursue excellence in his studies and research. He said their influence has been profound, shaping his academic path and instilling a deep appreciation for their respective fields.

Family and friendships bring balance to academics

Diaz visits his hometown every chance he gets to see his parents, family and friends.

“My parents have always been incredibly respectful and supportive of every decision I’ve made,” he said. “They are my example of constancy, hard work and purpose, and I am grateful for their guidance and encouragement.”

He is also grateful to have found an extended family while in College Station. Through his department, international student networks and his willingness to embrace new activities and experiences, he made friends he knows will be lifelong.

Diaz said Texas A&M’s vibrant and welcoming community provided ample opportunities to participate in traditions unique to Aggieland.

“My friends and I spent a lot of time together and made plans to enjoy various activities, to ensure fa balanced and fulfilling life,” he said. “Friends provide companionship as well as emotional support, helping to make my time at Texas A&M even more enjoyable and enriching.”

His circle of friends extended beyond his department to those who share some of his passions, which include soccer, basketball, dancing, music of all genres and watching movies.

“I love going to the cinema because it’s a great way for me to unwind and immerse myself in different stories and perspectives,” Diaz said. “I love dancing to Latin music with my group of friends. It’s a fun and energetic way to connect with my cultural roots and share joyful moments with my friends.”

Like many former students, Diaz also cherishes memories of attending tailgates and football games.

“The passion that Aggies have for football is truly remarkable,” Diaz said. “Participating in the traditions and rituals that surround each game was unforgettable.”

Diaz said he loved the palpable excitement in the stadium, the sense of community and shared spirit and immersing himself in the electrifying atmosphere of the games.

The passion and commitment bubbling over on campus inspired his approach to academic and life goals.

“Attending Texas A&M University was a transformative experience.”