Hometown: Malcolm, Nebraska
Major: Food Science and Technology
Anticipated Date of Graduation: December 2020
Why did you decide to come to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
I never saw myself going anywhere else. Malcolm has its small-town perks but is close enough to Lincoln where Lincoln also felt like home. UNL has a one-of-a-kind food science program and I knew that going there would challenge me and leave me with the best education.
What is your favorite thing about University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
My favorite thing about UNL is how small it seems, even while offering so many different opportunities for all of its students.
How has diversity and inclusive excellence played a role in your CASNR experience?
The Department of Food Science offers a 3+1 program to Chinese students studying food science, allowing them to finish their last year of their undergraduate degree in the United States at UNL. Working with so many new, international students my senior year was challenging. It pushed me to take on several additional tasks in group projects and adapt to working with new people with a little bit of a language barrier. Because of the program, I had to learn more about every aspect of each objective in my classes in order to succeed academically. I think it made me a more well-rounded student.
What is your favorite class you have taken so far and why?
My favorite class so far has been my capstone class, product development. The class allowed me to put everything I learned in all my classes, along with everything I have experienced in my on-campus job to use in one meaningful application. The goal of the class was to develop a new food product from start to finish, from formula development to final marketing. Although the physical class was cut short, the online alternative was very useful and relatable and provided me with a meaningful experience that I can use in my future career.
What are your plans post-graduation?
My goal after graduating is to find a food scientist job at a food company in Nebraska in their research and development lab or as a food labeling specialist.
What’s life like outside of school?
During the school year, and most summers before this one, I work in the Product Development Lab on campus at the Food Innovation Center. Outside of school, I am a member of the Nebraska Air National Guard. I drill with them one weekend a month and two weeks a year in Lincoln. This summer I am working at D & D Foods, Inc. in Omaha as a research and development intern. I am helping them update their bioengineering status on all of their inventory’s packaging. I have five siblings and I am a triplet. I have a big family and we all enjoy spending time together.