Greiven Fernández Benavides is an intern with the Nutrient Management Spear Program (NMSP). He grew up in Cariari, in the province of Limón, Costa Rica and is currently a senior studying Agricultural Science and Production at Zamorano University in Honduras.
We sat down with him to talk about his motivations and experiences as an NMSP intern.
What sparked your interest in agricultural science?
My passion for agriculture comes from my family. My grandfather and father introduced me to farming at an early age, instilling in me a deep appreciation for the land and emphasizing the importance of my role in ensuring sustainable food production for future generations.
I grew up in a tropical region known for its agriculture, beautiful beaches and rich biodiversity.
As a child, I was surrounded by agriculture, particularly pineapple and banana production, and that reinforced my commitment to studying and improving agricultural systems.
My grandfather and father introduced me to farming at an early age, instilling in me a deep appreciation for the land and emphasizing the importance of my role in ensuring sustainable food production for future generations.
What brought you to the Nutrient Management Spear Program (NMSP)?
I learned about NMSP from friends who had completed internships at Cornell University. They spoke highly of the program’s focus on soil science, which is my main area of interest.
I was particularly drawn to this internship because of the program’s emphasis on using applied research to enhance nutrient management strategies. My work with the team aligns with my aspiration to contribute to sustainable agricultural practices through scientific research and innovation.
What project are you assisting with? What are your day-to-day responsibilities with the team?
I am working on the rainfall simulation project with master’s student Carlos Irias.
