"I loved learning about food science in this program and being able to have hands-on experience in the Food Innovation Center. The coursework allowed me to see the many opportunities that I would have with a nutrition degree."
Quick Facts
Program: B.S. in Nutrition and Food Sciences
Minor: Psychology
Graduation Year: 2022
Current Job Title: Student, University of the Pacific
Hometown: Livermore, CA
Current City: Livermore, CA
Life at CBU
Why did you choose your major? What interested you in this particular field of study?
I chose nutrition and food sciences as my major because it checked all the boxes—it
had classes I was interested in and it is such a versatile field to choose a career
in. My passion to help people and my love for science (anatomy, physiology, chemistry,
etc.) pointed me in the direction to pursue a career in healthcare. As I narrowed
down my options, I found that I wanted to learn more about nutrition and mental health.
What did you like about being in this program at CBU?
I loved learning about food science in this program, being able to have hands-on experience
in the Food Innovation Center and conducting a research project surrounding this experience.
Overall, the coursework allowed me to see the many opportunities that I would have
with a nutrition degree, which pointed me in the direction to pursue a career in dietetics.
What did you think about your professors?
My professors were very caring and helpful throughout my four years at CBU. Each one
expressed interest in getting to know my classmates and me on a personal level, and
they made it evident they were rooting for our success in the future.
Did you participate in anything else at CBU?
I participated in ISP my sophomore year but unfortunately was not able to see it through
as the pandemic cancelled all traveling plans. However, I was able to go through a
majority of the training with my team, and I grew a lot spiritually through that process.
I was also a student worker for the College of Health Science where I gained lots
of experience in an office setting and was able to interact with students and professors
from other departments. In that role, in addition to learning new administrative and
time management skills, I was able to create more connections with professors and
my supervisors who gave much support for my future goals.
How did you grow (spiritually, socially, educationally) while in this program at CBU?
Spiritually, I grew through attending chapel and through my partial ISP experience.
Socially, I grew by meeting new people who would become my lifelong friends as well
as in participating in intramurals and attending various social events. Educationally,
I grew through being challenged in my classes and gaining support from my professors
who helped guide me through my degree.
Did your program help you figure out your purpose?
Yes, before coming to CBU I had no idea what my purpose would entail, but after graduating
I have realized that discovering my purpose was not only a personal victory but also
a direct outcome of being surrounded by people who rooted me on in times that I did
not believe in myself. CBU gave me a place to find my footing and equipped me with
the tools I need to succeed in my future education.
Life after CBU
What have you done since graduating?
Since I have graduated, I have been resting and gearing up for my next step in higher
education. In the fall, I will be attending the University of the Pacific to earn
a master's degree in clinical nutrition where I will gain internship hours and course
requirements to be eligible to sit for the exam to become a Registered Dietitian.
How has your major and time at CBU prepared you for your life and career after college?
The nutrition and food sciences program prepared me immensely in being accepted to
grad school as I was able to show my experience in advanced courses, such as medical
nutrition therapy, to show my readiness for higher education. My experience as a student
worker helped me practice professional interactions in the office setting as well
as inspired me to pursue a career as a professor after gaining experience as a dietitian
in the future.
Is there anything you learned at CBU that you still use in your professional life
today?
I'd say I use everything I have learned at CBU as I was able to grow in all aspects
of my life. Something that I will take with me into my professional life will be my
drive to achieve a career that will allow me to help people in the future.
How are you making a difference in the world? How are you living your purpose?
In the future I would like to be able to help counsel others as a Registered Dietitian
and then later pursue a career as a professor to help educate the next generations
of future dietitians. I would like to help make a difference in the world as a dietitian
and professor to help others realize they are capable in achieving and living their
purposes and most importantly to provide the support needed through that process.
Would you recommend CBU to others?
Yes, I would recommend CBU to others because there are so many people (from professors
to students) who are waiting to know you on a personal level and help guide you on
your journey into finding and living your purpose. There are also many opportunities
and resources available to you throughout your CBU experience to help you succeed
during your schooling and beyond. Additionally the small class sizes allow students
to get individualized help and support academically from their professors.
Anything else you'd like to add?
Lance up!