Food Science Senior Spotlight - fernanda pedroza-altamirano
Hometowns: Lima, Peru; La Paz, Bolivia
Major: Food Science
Minors: French and Portuguese
Why did you choose Purdue Food Science: Purdue has one of the best Food Science programs in the U.S.
Favorite memory of your time at Purdue: Hanging out at my friend Piero's apartment, going to the gym with my gym buddies, cookouts with my friends, study sessions with my residents.
What activities or organizations did you participate in while at Purdue?: Owen Hall Resident Assistant (RA) ('22-'24), Food Science Club President ('22-'23), Pilot Plant Crew Member ('21-'24), FEMI Member ('23-'24), Food Science Envoy ('21-'22)
Favorite Purdue event: Grand Prix
Favorite spot on campus: Purdue Memorial Union
Favorite club/organization: Food Science Club
Favorite Purdue Tradition: Grand Prix
Places you have been as a Purdue student: I had 2 internships during my time at Purdue. The first one was with Cargill FSQR in Lake Odessa, Michigan. My second internship was with PepsiCo R&D in Valhalla, New York.
Favorite class: Portuguese Level VI (PTGS 302) because it helped me improve my Portuguese exponentially in a fun and engaging way!
What made your Purdue experience great?: My friends and classmates! I love the people I've met here at Purdue.
Favorite thing about Purdue Food Science and/or the College of Agriculture: I love the diversity in the Food Science department.
Favorite professor or staff member: Mike Caffee and Carolina Alvim Ferreira
Biggest accomplishments at Purdue: Being Food Science Club president ('22-'23), IFTSA 2022 SMART Snacks Group Finalist, Outstanding Food Science freshman ('20-'21)
Advice for underclassmen: Your social life is just as important as your academic life. Take some time to nurture your friendships and take care of yourself.
Future plans after graduation: I will be working with PepsiCo in their R&D Headquarters in Valhalla, NY.
Long term career goals: I hope to land a position that has a lot of travel opportunities!
Biggest takeaway from your time at Purdue: Learn how to rely on your support systems when needed, and learn how to be a reliable support system for others.