This week we are celebrating Student Volunteering Week! We asked some of our student members to tell us why you should get involved with IFST.
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As the NI Student Ambassador I've been really lucky to partake in a number of volunteering activities with the IFST. The annual IFST Young Scientist Competition has been a great way for me to promote and engage other students not only about IFST Student membership but also the benefits of showcasing work early on in our food science careers. Promoting the IFST at various events including "Science at Stormont" , the IFST Lecture 2016 and at The Fresh Careers Fair have all been instrumental in further engaging students and professional networking with others within the food industry. I also sit on the NI Committee Board and am acting secretary for this year's activities. Being able to interact professionally with a diverse range of individuals within the food sector, thereby reaching out to academia, industry, young professionals and students is all brought to the fore due to my volunteering. I also get to experience great events from talks to fairs and get a real buzz from being able to share my passion and enthusiasm with like mind people! For anyone thinking about volunteering, Definitely do it! Not only does it enhance your professional awareness and CV but is also a great way to meet fellow students, engage with the food industry and constantly learn more both about the sector itself as well as your own personal skills. Anna Monaghan, Queens University Belfast |
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I’m Alice and I am the Publicity officer for the IFST Student Committee along with another student, Alice Bryant. My job is to write the student newsletter bi-monthly with Alice so we gather together different articles we think will be of interest and make sure the students are kept up to date with current trends and IFST events. I find it really fun, it’s really great to be working in a committee with other Food Science students and it is a great way for me to keep up to date with what’s going on. It’s a great networking tool too, as we have to contact those in the food industry to ask if they would produce us some content for the newsletter. Alice Nield, University of Reading |
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Volunteering at IFST is a great way to understand the food industry. I have greeted major food companies at the Spring Conference. Being at the forefront of the event makes it easier to approach and network with food employers. I also got the opportunity to present to my fellow students at Coventry University about IFST. Giving talks to help other students get their foot in the door in the food industry gives you are sense of accomplishment. For anyone considering volunteering, there is nothing stopping you! Volunteering can fit around your schedule meaning you will always have time to volunteer. Adelaide Barwood, Coventry University |
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