Office of Student Life
Buckeye Leadership Fellows Program

International Travel

BLF '26 in Argentina

Our BLF 2026 cohort embarked on an unforgettable journey through Argentina, immersing ourselves in a vibrant cultural tapestry—from the empowering International Women’s Day Parade in Buenos Aires to exploring Uruguay’s UNESCO-listed Colonia del Sacramento. We savored Argentine cuisine, cruised the lush delta of Tigre, and discovered how athleticism, history, and hospitality intersect at Glascorn Polo. We capped off our immersion with a tango show at La Ventana, forging lasting bonds and a deeper appreciation for Argentina’s multifaceted culture.

Shifting to Argentina’s dynamic business ecosystem, we visited Globant Headquarters to learn about global digital transformation, gained insights into sustainable manufacturing at Greif in Tigre, and returned to Glascorn Polo to see how tradition meets strategy in an iconic sport. A visit to the U.S. Embassy underscored the value of global diplomacy and cross-cultural partnerships. Each experience highlighted visionary leadership, collaboration, and community engagement—lessons our fellows are eager to bring back to campus and into their future careers!

Trip Highlights:

  • International Women’s Day Parade in Buenos Aires

  • Historic ferry ride across Rio de la Plata to Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay

  • Culinary experiences at Rio Alba and other local eateries

  • Boat tour through the lush delta of Tigre

  • Globant Headquarters visit to learn about digital transformation

  • Greif in Tigre for a behind-the-scenes look at sustainable manufacturing

  • Glascorn Polo for both cultural immersion and business insights

  • US Embassy tour, exploring the role of diplomats and global partnerships

  • City tours, museum visits, and a tango show at La Ventana


We asked our Fellows to share the most impactful parts of the trip, and here is what a few of them had to say:

"We hear titles like diplomat and tech consultant, but actually meeting these professionals at their workplaces made everything more tangible.” – Xavier Vesco

“This trip opened my mind to career possibilities abroad. Seeing companies like Globant and visiting the US Embassy made paths that once felt distant seem much more accessible.” – Safa Mohammed

“Before visiting the U.S. Embassy, I never imagined myself becoming a diplomat. Now, I’m considering new career paths—plus I feel like I’ve gained a new family in our cohort.” – Christian Riley

“I often find myself a bit shy, so this was a perfect chance to come out of my shell. It also broadened my perspective on how similar and connected we all are, despite living in different parts of the world.”– Caroline McCoy


This trip would not have been possible without the support of the BLF Network and the guidance of dedicated industry professionals. Last but certainly not least, thank you to our BLF donors and board members—your contributions made this extraordinary experience a reality. We are immensely grateful for your generosity!

BLF '25 in Europe

At the end of March, the 2025 Cohort had the opportunity to travel internationally to Switzerland and Italy, with stops in Zurich, Milan, and Geneva. The trip focused on company and culture while challenging our Fellows to get out of their comfort zone and expand their worldview. During their time abroad, they met with industry leaders, visited companies like FIFA, Mettler Toledo, and CERN, connected with BLF Alumni, and immersed themselves in the culture of each city. 

Zurich, Switzerland Highlights: 

  • FIFA Headquarters visit, presentation, and tour
  • Mettler-Toledo International, Inc production tour and presentation with BLF Alumna Holly Nurre and OSU Alumnus Clark Templeton
  • BLF dinner at the Top of Zurich with mountaintop views of the Swiss Alps

Milan, Italy Highlights:

Geneva, Switzerland Highlights:

  • CERN - European Organization for Nuclear Research
  • Time to explore culture and landmarks throughout the city 

We asked our Fellows to share the most impactful parts of the trip, and here is what a few of them had to say: 

"My favorite parts of the trip were being able to culturally immerse myself with the countries. I love being able to explore on my own and make connections with total strangers. I had a lot of great interactions with locals. The most impactful piece of the trip was being able to become closer with some of my other cohort members."

"The company visits in Milan were amazing because they challenged me to reconsider what all I may be capable of in the future. Hearing from people who grew to be so successful and who really molded their own career was super inspiring and gave me hope that I can someday do the same."

"Matteo’s speech had a big impact on me even though I’m not interested in the fashion industry. I felt like I related to him a lot because of how he talked about feeling like he was at rock bottom and how he built his business up from there. Overall, sightseeing and spending time with everyone was amazing. I feel so much closer to people I wasn’t close with before and am grateful to know them."

"I enjoyed spending time with friends in the cohort that I don't get to see often outside of BLF. I think being able to experience a different place, culture, and people was very eye opening and an experience I will never forget."


This trip would not be possible without the support of the BLF Network and the help of industry professionals. A special thanks to:

  • Special Events Global Specialist at FIFA, Emanuel Femminis
  • OSU alumnus Clark Templeton and BLF alumna Holly Nurre at Mettler Toledo
  • Valerio Cometti, the CEO of V12 Design
  • Matteo Ward at Candiani Denim and member of Fashion Revolution Italia 
  • Dr. Pablo Garcia Tello at CERN
  • Co-creator of the worldwide web, Robert Cailliau

Last but certainly not least, thank you to our BLF donors and board members. Without your contributions to this program, this experience would not have been possible.