MAST has had a very positive impact on my life, created lifetime friendships all over the world and I am still in contact with a lot of them. We have organized a reunion of our farm students (Lake Shore Farm in Hanska) with the Schmiesing family in May 2014 where a lot of my international "farm brothers" attended. Just in time, because in a few years our host family, Wally and Inez Schmiesing passed away. They were the nicest "parents" to have, granting their students enough time and possibilities to discover life in rural Minnesota and the Cities, as well socials in the local community. Highlights in the community was getting to know the social and rural community in the weekends at church but also with boating and waterskiing on Lake Hanska, BBQ's at farms or the State Park, visits to the nearby towns of New Ulm and Mankato in the weekends etc.
I had a great time at the farm and the University where I stayed at a fraternity, with a positive influence on my personal development and independency.
I have so many wonderful memories: summer camp at Lake Itasca, city trips to concerts (Supetramp, Stones) and soccer and Twins baseball games , the winter quarter with all 100+ students at the U of M and their social activities (toga parties, international country parties, picnics, BBQ's, International Night) and more - but also the Ag related activities such as the State Fair and livestock auctions and shows.
