Amrita Pradeep

• Field and focus area of study: Food Science and Technology, Dairy Processing and Food Safety
• Hometown: Kottayam, Kerala, India
• Fun fact: I’m absolutely in love with stargazing! It fills me with awe, humbles me, and inspires me to dream beyond limits.

Why did you choose the MFS degree?

The MFS degree aligns perfectly with my passion for food science and my desire to make a meaningful impact in the food industry. The program offers a unique blend of academic rigor and real-world application. I wanted to deepen my understanding of food safety, quality control, and sustainability while gaining the practical skills necessary for a leadership role in the food sector. Additionally, the flexibility of the MPS program allows me to focus on both my academic interests and my long-term career goals.

What were the biggest obstacles you had to overcome in order to participate in the program? 

One of the biggest obstacles I had to overcome in order to participate in this program was being an international student. Navigating the complexities of the process, adjusting to a new academic system, and settling into a completely different cultural environment were all significant challenges. Being far from home meant adapting to new norms, building a support system from scratch, and learning to balance academic expectations with personal adjustments. These struggles, though daunting at times, only strengthened my resolve. My passion for food science and long-term career goals kept me motivated to push through these challenges and pursue my dreams.

What were you doing prior to your degree program?

Before joining Cornell, I worked as a Category Associate at Zomato Hyperpure, where I managed supply chain planning and operations for dairy products in two major Indian cities. I was the only female on the team and contributed significantly to team and business growth. I also interned at Britannia Industries, where I worked on quality analysis in the lab for raw materials, and at Synthite Industries, gaining hands-on experience in the spice and oleoresins industry. Additionally, my undergraduate project focused on detecting potential migrants from packaging materials in dairy products.

What are the strengths of the program, in your opinion? 

In my opinion, one of the key strengths of the MFS  program is its flexibility and the ability to customize the learning experience. Students can choose from a wide range of classes, even across different departments. This interdisciplinary approach broadens the perspective and enhances the skill set. Additionally, the opportunity to collaborate with the professor of my choice on research that aligned with my interests was invaluable. It provided the chance to dive deep into topics I’m passionate about, like food safety and dairy processing while gaining mentorship from experts in the field. This combination of flexibility, collaboration, and practical experience made the program an ideal fit.

What have been some of your most rewarding moments while in your program?

Learning from renowned professors in the field has been incredibly fulfilling, as their expertise has expanded my knowledge and opened my mind to new ideas. Also, the opportunity to work closely with Nicole Martin, my advisor - whose guidance has been invaluable in shaping my research and academic growth. Additionally, connecting with people from different parts of the world has been a highlight, as it has enriched my perspective, fostered cross-cultural exchanges, and built lasting friendships that I will cherish throughout my life. I also feel proud of the progress I’ve made in developing a deeper understanding of food science, particularly in areas like microbiology and food quality control.

What are your short term and long term career goals?

In the short term, my goal is to start a PhD in food science, focusing on food microbiology. This will allow me to deepen my expertise and contribute to addressing critical issues in the food industry. In the long term, I aspire to work in a leadership role within the food industry, where I can apply my research to drive innovation in food safety and sustainability. Ultimately, I hope to make a global impact in food science.

What courses stand out as most helpful for your specific career goals?

Several courses in the MFS  program stand out as being particularly helpful for my career goals. Courses focused on food microbiology, food safety management, dairy processing and sustainable business are directly aligned with my interests and will provide me with the technical knowledge needed to address key challenges in the industry. Additionally, courses in quality control and food product development will be beneficial as they combine scientific principles with practical applications, preparing me for leadership roles. Finally, classes that explore research methodologies and data analysis will be essential for my goal. The program’s flexibility to choose courses across different departments further enhances my ability to shape my studies.

How have the faculty supported your educational goals?

The faculty at Cornell have been incredibly supportive in helping me achieve my educational goals. Nicole Martin, in particular, has been my advisor throughout my research on characterizing thermoduric bacteria in raw milk, guiding me through the complexities of my project and helping me refine my skills in microbiology and food safety. Her expertise and care have been invaluable. The faculty’s openness to collaboration has allowed me to learn from top professors in the field, gaining insights into both theoretical and practical aspects of food science. Their willingness to offer feedback and encourage independent thought has fostered a learning environment where I feel empowered to explore my interests further. Their support has been crucial in shaping my academic journey and ensuring I stay on track toward my career aspirations.

How has your MFS  experience changed you, both personally and professionally?

The program has pushed me out of my comfort zone, helping me develop resilience and adaptability in navigating a new academic environment as an international student. The exposure to diverse perspectives, both from professors and classmates, has broadened my worldview and helped me cultivate deeper empathy and cultural understanding. Professionally, the MFS program has enhanced my technical expertise in food science, particularly in food safety and microbiology. It has allowed me to collaborate with top-tier professors and researchers, gaining valuable skills in research methodologies and problem-solving. I have become more confident in my ability to contribute to impactful projects, and I now have a clearer vision of how I can make a difference in the food industry. Overall, the program has strengthened my passion for food science and given me the tools to pursue a successful career.