School of Environmental & Biological Sciences
Rutgers University, New Brunswick
Nutrition Dietetics & Italian
How did you decide on your major?
After my first year at Rutgers, I was positive I wanted to pursue Nutrition as a major. My love for food science and its effects on metabolism really inspired me to pursue something that would allow me to educate others as well as encourage healthy living. Though I originally intended to acquire an Italian minor, I decided my sophomore year to pursue an Italian major. The incredibly engaging faculty encouraged me to strengthen my speaking and writing skills while gaining proficiency in the language.
What is it about your chosen field (and the department) that appeals to you?
In both of my chosen fields, I was able to pursue research and that allowed me to explore my interests. Through the Italian department, I completed an undergraduate honors thesis entitled Foundations of Medieval Dietetics in which I culminated research from both of my disciplines of study.
Do you have a favorite class/professor within your major?
First of all, the Italian department is thriving with exceptional faculty. Some of my favorite courses would certainly include Contemporary Italian Lit and Italian Cinema, then taught by Professor Rhiannon Welch. I have also thoroughly enjoyed Italian Literature and the Italian senior seminar which I took with my thesis advisor, Professor Laura White.
What are your favorite academic experiences outside of your major?
My favorite academic experiences outside of my major would include studying abroad in Urbino, Italy with the Italian department, participating in an international service trip with Rutgers Alternative Breaks, and taking an agricultural leadership course which included an agri-touristical tour of the Netherlands.
I am a member of the Nutrition Honor society and volunteer with the Hub City Fresh Corner Store Initiative, I am in the Douglass Residential College, and have participated in the Nutrition, Food Science, and Italian club throughout my undergraduate education.
What are your plans following graduation?
Following graduation, I intend to continue pursuing biological research. I plan to apply to graduate programs in microbiology for Fall 2018.
