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  • Food Science
  • Food

Major: Food science

Hometown: White Plains, New York

Why did you choose Cornell CALS?

I chose Cornell CALS for its food science program and the tight-knit community. I loved that students really get to know their professors and work closely with them on research. The CALS advisors especially allow you to confide in them; they are easy to talk to and very supportive. The events and community programs make it easy to connect with other CALS students and share experiences. We can even find mentors who help us grow academically.

Looking back over your freshman year at CALS, which classes or experiences were most meaningful?

Chemistry was definitely challenging. Going through it with friends made it more manageable and even fun. Sharing late night study sessions and venting created some of my favorite memories. I also loved how easy it was to find clubs around my hobbies, especially in plants. For food science, Science and Technology of Foods (FDSC 1101) and Leadership and Career Skills in Food Science (FDSC 1102) were memorable classes. The content was captivating, and making ice cream was an experience.

What kind of research are you interested in?

I’m not exactly sure what kind of research I want to pursue yet, but that’s part of what interests me about being at CALS. I know that when the time comes, I’ll have access to faculty, supportive advisors and plenty of resources to help me explore my interests.

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Field Note

Xingtan (Vera) Yu PhD’27 is a doctoral student working in the lab of Jingyue (Ellie) Duan , assistant professor of functional genomics. Vera’s research focuses on the effects of heat stress on the mammary gland of the dairy cow. We spoke to her...
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News

New study asserts that systematic change in food production and consumption requires real political capital and will.

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