Tell us about your background and why you chose UW?

I actually came to UW to study marine biology, and there aren’t many opportunities for that in the Midwest! Even after I changed my path, I still wanted to move somewhere else to grow as an individual person.

What influenced you to major in Food Systems, Nutrition, and Health?

I got involved with The UW Farm the fall of my freshman year, and learned about the intersection of two areas that I care about: food and environmental sustainability. I was fascinated with the complex interactions between these areas, along with economics, nutrition, and other fields of study, to form food systems! I’ve since acquired a deep appreciation for the field and its important work, such as adopting our food production and consumption patterns to work towards a more environmentally sustainable society. 

What has been the most compelling thing you’ve learned so far in the program?

I’ve been compelled by the vast extent and complexity of our food system. Problems have many causes and no clear solutions, and effective research must be interdisciplinary and involve nutritionists, policymakers, economists, environmentalists, and professionals from both the private and public sector. It’s honestly a little overwhelming to think how many people and organizations are involved!

How do you envision applying what you’ve learned in the program after graduation?

The program has made me view all of our actions and outcomes related to food as one small part of a much broader system. I plan to pursue specific research questions like how we incentivize more sustainable diets and food production in our food system while maintaining a broader perspective of the economic and social implications that these changes might have.

What do you like to do for fun?

I love all kinds of movement and pushing my body physically! I train and race for triathlons, as well as backpack, hike, and go to the gym. I also love reading and listening to podcasts, as well as experimenting with various foods in the kitchen (particularly seasonal produce from the UW Farm!).

Share a fun fact about yourself.

I have been skydiving!

What are your future goals?

While I have yet to develop a long-term career path, I want to work in either the non-profit or private sector for a few years to develop my leadership and project management skills before going into a graduate program. I want those intermediate years of work to develop my worldview, so I can attack research later in my career with a more holistic perspective.

What do you enjoy most about living in Seattle?

Seattle is a short drive away from some of the most beautiful areas in the country. I’ve done hikes, runs, and races in places that I would never have seen in the Midwest!

What advice would you give someone considering the Food Systems major?

One thing that I love about the major is its interdisciplinary nature. My advice to prospective students would be to use it as an opportunity to explore the various topics encompassed in food systems. Find what discipline most fascinates you and let that guide your future career path!

Interested in food, nutrition, or health as an undergraduate? Explore the Food Systems, Nutrition, and Health major or nutrition minor.