Student Spotlight: Ava Petersen

East Campus pillars at enterance
Ava Peterson
Ava Peterson
Hometown: Spokane, WA
Major: Food Science and Technology with a minor in Business Administration
Anticipated Date of Graduation: May 2017

Why did you decide to come to UNL?
I wanted to get out of state, so I made a list of schools with good food science programs outside of Washington. Nebraska has a good program, so I came to visit and I fell in love with it here! The people were friendly and I liked that there were two (well, now three) campuses, which makes UNL the best of both worlds; with East Campus having a small private college type feel, while City Campus feels more like a traditional Big 10 school. I also have family in Omaha, which allows me to be away from home but not too far away from family. 

What is your favorite thing about UNL?
The squirrels! Just kidding. The people here is definitely my favorite thing about UNL. Between the friends I've made, the faculty members I've been taught by, and everyone else who has touched my life in the last two and a half years have made my experience at UNL better than I could have ever imagined. 

What is your favorite class you have taken so far and why?
General botany was a class I took my freshman year because I needed to take a biology class and it sounded more interesting than general biology. Not only was the professor entertaining, but it was a very engaging class. I found an interest in plants that I did not know I had, and because of taking this course, I hope to pursue a career working with plants in either the coffee or chocolate industry or something with fruits and vegetables.

What are your plans post-graduation?
I am not sure yet. Originally the plan was to go straight into the food industry, but now I am considering going to grad school first. 

What's life like outside of school?
With going to class, working in the admin office of the Food Science Department, and doing research in the Food Allergy Research and Resource Program lab, there is not that much time for other activities. However, I do enjoy my time outside of work and school by being involved in the Food Science Club, playing intramural sports, cooking, knitting, spending time with friends and, of course, watching Netflix.

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