Musings From a Newbie Food Scientist

Hey FoodGrads!

My name is Leah and I am thrilled to join FoodGrads as a Campus Ambassador!

I am a Food Science student at the University of Guelph. Aside from general microbiology and chemistry courses, I get to learn about how to make ice cream and beer all day long!

In my new role, I will be representing FoodGrads who partner with Taste Your Future to educate high school students about education and career opportunities in the food industry!

Why did I choose food science?

My path to food science was different from most of my peers. I grew up in Guelph and I always loved visiting the campus during College Royal, the largest university open house in North America. One of my favourite stops was the Food Science building filled with homemade milkshakes and fun food facts!

When it came time to apply to university, I wanted to study the sciences from a multidisciplinary perspective with good job security. By combining my interests in cooking, nutrition and public health, food science seemed like a good fit! I have really enjoyed all of my food science courses so far and am looking forward to my Quality Assurance position this summer.

An extra bonus of studying food science, I get to help make milkshakes at College Royal.

Why get involved with FoodGrads?

I learnt about FoodGrads from their presentation at a Food Science Club meeting last semester. I liked learning about the different jobs presented and started following FoodGrads on their blog and on LinkedIn.

When I saw that Nicole Gallace was looking for new Campus Ambassadors, I decided to apply. I think that the FoodGrads mission is important! As a student with little food industry experience, it can be difficult to find job opportunities that are relevant to my field.

I believe that speaking with high school students is a great way to spread the word about future food careers and education!

The food industry is massive, it can be intimidating to try to figure out where you might fit in. Since there are so many possible entry-points, I’m hoping to raise awareness early on about all of the wonderful opportunities within the food industry!

Anyone interested in food-related university and college programs can check out this page.

My advice to students

Get involved

Find clubs and activities within your school and community that interest you. This can be a great way to meet other people and learn more about your passions! It will also help set you apart when you are applying to jobs.

Consider getting a part-time job

Aside from the extra income, having a part-time job is an amazing way to gain professional skills and experience!

NETWORK, NETWORK, NETWORK!

Talk to your teachers and professors about their experiences! Use LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your field, maybe you could ask them to meet for coffee and chat. Attend job fairs and follow up with the companies that interest you.

Oh, and make a FoodGrads profile!

Good luck FoodGrads!

Author: Leah Brodovsky is a Food Science student at the University of Guelph. She likes to run and try out new recipes in her free time.