Navigating the World of Food Science: My Journey Towards Societal Well-being by Madison

Navigating the World of Food Science: My Journey Towards Societal Well-being by Madison - December 2023 Scholarship Essay

As I journey through my academic life at Alabama A&M University, there's a profound sense of purpose that comes with my choice of major – Food Science. It's not just about earning a degree; it's about understanding the impact of food on our lives and contributing to the well-being of society.

My academic venture at Alabama A&M has been centered around a Bachelor of Science in Food Science, where each course has been a step closer to unraveling the complexities of the food industry. From "Food & Survival of Man" to "Regulations of Food Safety & Quality," the diverse coursework has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of how food influences our health, safety, and overall well-being. But knowledge is meaningful when applied. In the professional arena, my experiences have allowed me to bridge the gap between coursework and real-life application. My commitment to societal well-being extends beyond the classroom and workplace into internships and fellowships. My recent internship with the U.S. FDA Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN) in College Park, Maryland, is more than just a job – it's a commitment to staying updated on emerging food safety issues and actively contributing to the development of food safety policies.

My involvement in the USDA Food Safety Outreach Program underscored my proactive engagement in addressing microbiological safety concerns in agriculture. From hands-on activities for underrepresented farmers to experiments on bioremediation, I am contributing to research that aims to make our food systems healthier and more sustainable. My internship at H Street Farms Cultivate the City in Washington, DC, was an eye-opener into the world of sustainable and safe food production. Through experiments on bioremediation and research on hemp plants' ability to purify soil contaminated with pollutants, I'm actively participating in practices that can positively impact our food systems.

In conclusion, my journey in Food Science exemplifies the positive impact this field can have on society. With each step, from classrooms to internships, I'm not just learning; I'm actively contributing to the safety, sustainability, and well-being of our food systems. Food Science isn't just a major for me; it's a pathway to a healthier and safer world for us all.