Tell us about your background and why you chose UW?

I graduated from Henritetta Lacks Health and Bioscience High School in 2022 in Vancouver, Washington. As a first-generation college student, being admitted to the University of Washington was an exciting opportunity, and one I’m deeply grateful for. I chose to attend UW because of its strong academic reputation, the endless opportunities it offers, and of course the location of Seattle. 

What influenced you to choose Food Systems, Nutrition, and Health as a major?

I chose to study Food Systems, Nutrition, and Health to deepen my understanding of nutrition and its overall impact on health and well-being. I was interested in how people I care about and know could have broader access to nutritional information. I am not only motivated to improve my own knowledge, but to help educate others on the importance of foods, and sustainable lifestyles. 

What are you working on right now, or are looking forward to in the coming year of your program? 

I am currently focused on finding a job or a post-graduate program. I am interested in pursuing opportunities to work with a Seattle-based sports organization in the area of athlete performance, nutrition, and recovery. Right now, I volunteer at the UW Performance Nutrition Center (PNC), a building located near the Husky Stadium that helps make smoothies and provides snacks for our athletes’ practices, lifts, and games. We have a lot of information on what helps our athletes recover, build muscle, and help fuel them during their games. 

Check out the UW PNC Instagram page 

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

How I envision applying what I’ve learned post grad isn’t just within a job or program. I plan on using what I have learned to help various people in my life. This includes my family, friends, and even co-workers at my current job. Nothing excites me more when someone asks me a question related to nutrition and being able to help those around me. 

What are your future goals?

My future goals include finding a job within my field that keeps me engaged, excited to show up, and pass my knowledge onto those around me. I also want to travel outside the United States to learn more about European food policies and look into how their nutrition differs from ours. 

What do you like to do for fun?

What I like to do for fun is go thrifting with my friends! We love all of the places on the Ave like Crossroads, Rax Vintage, and Red Light! I encourage everyone near campus to check these places out if they can! 

Share a fun fact about yourself.

A fun fact about myself is that I am the middle child. I have many siblings that live all across the country. Some in Arizona, Washington, and San Diego.

What do you enjoy most about living in Seattle?

What I enjoy the most about living in Seattle is the opportunity to continue to grow in my community. Attending such a big school in a major city there are so many open doors for anything that interests you. We have many sports teams, art, museums, and places to see. You will always meet someone new or try something you haven’t before! 

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

The biggest piece of advice I can give to someone considering the Food Systems major is to take your science and math classes early on in your journey at UW! I really enjoyed taking STEM classes in my fall and winter quarters so I could focus on fun electives and informative nutrition classes in the spring. Having a good balance in your schedule during the sunny days in Seattle will be something you will appreciate!

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