Graduate Student Profile - Suyapa F. Rojas Oropel

Suyapa Fabiola Rojas Oropel successfully defended her M.S. thesis on December 1, 2025. Suyapa is originally from Nicaragua, and she received her bachelor's degree from Zamorano Pan-American Agricultural School in Honduras. 

Suyapa's thesis was entitled, "Exploring Stakeholder Perspectives and Practices in Food Safety: From Consumers to Processors." Her research examined food safety practices and perspectives across different players in the food supply chain, highlighting areas where interventions could improve overall safety. It included three case studies, each focusing on a different group of stakeholders: food safety training programs for small-scale food processors, definitions and handling of ready-to-eat foods, and caregiver preparation practices for powdered infant formula. Together, these studies identify critical gaps in food safety and emphasize the need for better communication and the development of targeted educational resources to strengthen safe practices throughout the food supply chain.

Suyapa's advisor was Dr. Yaohua "Betty" Feng. Other members of her gradate committee included Dr. Deandrae Smith and Dr. Hui-Hui Wang.

Suyapa was first introduced to Purdue as a visiting scholar in 2023, which fueled her interest in the graduate program. Suyapa adds, "I chose Purdue because of its strong Food Science department, supportive faculty, and good research facilities. The program offers many opportunities for graduate students to build their skills and gain professional experience."

During her time at Purdue, Suyapa was part of the 2024 Graduate Bridge Program organized by the Office of Graduate Students and Postdoctoral Scholars. This program provides participants with an early start to their research program, professional development workshops, a housing allowance, travel support, and opportunities to build community before the academic year begins.

Suyupa plans to continue her graduate studies as a PhD student in the Food Safety Human Factor Lab advised by Dr. Feng. Her research will focus on powdered infant formula and caregiver practices. Through this work, Suyupa hopes to gain valuable experience in both research and real-world applications. Congratulations, Suyapa!