(May 20th)
Visiting Aristotle University's farm in Thessaloniki was enlightening for all of us. We met with three professors who introduced us to some students from the agriculture department and showed us around the 60,000 square meter area.
The farm is divided into 600 plots that are rented by individuals or families of Thessaloniki. Organic techniques are used for each plot, and renters can plant whatever they want and use the products for their personal needs. Drip-irrigation is used for each plot to prevent excessive use of water. Some members of the group compared this project to the Kennesaw gardens.
We asked a lot of questions and received thorough answers for all of them. After walking through several plot areas, we had the opportunity to sit down and engage with the six agriculture students.
Questions about our majors and what we all want to do with our futures were traded. The students spoke English very well, even though they kept apologizing! We really enjoyed interacting with them, and we were really disappointed that we had to leave to catch our bus soon after we sat down.
However! On the bus ride home, Judy got a call from one of the students, inviting us out for an authentic Thessaloniki nightlife experience. We gladly accepted!
They met us after dinner and we had a wonderful time getting to know them and their city. They took us to one of their favorite taverns in town, and we all just spent simple time together creating memories and great friends we weren't expecting to make.
Leaving Thessaloniki so soon after making such good friends really stunk. We did, however, promise to show them around America whenever they visit the states. We're crossing our fingers that it will be some time soon.
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