Bachelor of Science Honours, Major in Food Science
Co-op Placement
Employer
Position
Lactalis Canada
Research and Development Student
What is your title, role, and host organization?
I worked as a Research and Development student at Lactalis Canada for my last co-op work term. The main task for me was to create a protocol for a new equipment in improving the texture of products. Meanwhile, I have also spent two months working as a Quality Technician within the production team, in which my tasks include supporting research projects, and collecting and analyzing product samples.
How is your placement related to your field of study? Did any course(s) prepare you for this placement?
My major was well aligned with my co-op placement. The courses I have taken in school have prepared me well for working as a R&D student in a food manufacturer. The courses with lab components have trained me to work comfortably with a variety of laboratory equipment, record and interpret data, and review literature. Moreover, Food Processing and Food Analysis covered the fundamentals of food production flow and food proximate analysis which helped me to get familiar with the production site very quickly.
How is your placement impacting your future career goals and overall awareness of the job market in Food Science?
The two microbiological research projects that I have been involved in, have affirmed my career path of Food Safety. Besides, I am aware that food industries are thriving and there is high demand for food professionals, such as Quality Control and Quality Assurance. The Food Science undergraduate program at Carleton University has an overall well-planned curriculum, which prepares program graduates to work professionally in these positions, as well as other roles in different public and private sectors.
How have you grown professionally through your placement?
During the placement, I have developed not only advance research skills, but also good interpersonal skills. The co-op program offered an invaluable platform for students to interact with professionals in the field. I had limitless opportunities to seek advice on solving real- time issues. From this, I could develop logical thinking skills, which is beneficial in my future career.
Do you have any advice for junior students in Food Science?
The advice I have for junior food science students would be to try different work experiences and figure out the career path that you want to begin with before graduating from school. It will allow you to have more time to strengthen the job specific skills and work more confidently in the role.
Share: Twitter, Facebook
Short URL:
https://carleton.ca/foodscience/?p=1394
