Making Life Better
Food science major
As a high school student in Washington D.C., Ashley Hart didn't intend to study agriculture in college. A friend suggested she look at studying Food Science as a way to combine her love of food with her background in science.
"When I chose food science as my major, I didn't really relate it agriculture as much as I did to a technical science, she said. "Now though, I realize that all aspects of Food Science relate to agriculture, big or small."
She entered the University of Georgia as a food science major and hasn't looked back since.
"Food Science is a perfect fit for me, it truly is a hands-on applied science," she said.
Ashley's Student Profile
Name: Ashley Hart
Hometown: Washington DC area
Estimated semester/year of graduation: Spring 2010
Major: Food Science
Q&A with Ashley
What made you choose to attend UGA?
The strong Food Science program! I was also looking at several other universities with Food Science programs, but when I visited Athens I fell in love. My parents loved the fact that UGA dedicated an entire building to Food Science, while other universities combined majors into the same building. Athens had a great vibe and it seemed like a great place to go to college out-of-state and experience a culture entirely different than the Washington D.C. area.
How many times have you changed your major? What made you settle on your current major?
I haven't changed my major once since I've attended UGA. My current major was brought to my attention by a high school friend, a fellow Food Network addict, who recommended that I research Food Science further. It seemed natural to combine my love of food with my knowledge and background of science.
What exposure did you have to agriculture before coming to CAES?
My exposure to agriculture before CAES was little to none. Coming from a high school in Washington D.C., the emphasis on agriculture isn't very pronounced.
What's your favorite class and why?
My favorite class would have to be Instrumental Methods of Food Analysis. This class really exemplifies the heart of food science. This class combines food chemistry with the analytical tools used to quantify the characteristics of food. In this class, students can ask why and how chemical changes occur during the processing (or cooking) of food. For example, our class used analytical tools to compare the residual nitrite in conventional, cured hot dogs with organic "nitrite-free" hot dogs. We also studied how salt and phosphates affect the juiciness of hamburgers and the process of separating different food dyes in Kool-Aid.
Which instructor at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences has been the most influential?
Although all of my professors have been amazing and are extremely well-versed in their area of expertise, the most influential professor I've had is Dr. Robert Shewfelt. He's been my advisor, professor and mentor since freshman year and has encouraged and supported me all four years. His passion for Food Science definitely rubbed off on me and I've joined in, spreading awareness about Food Science's benefits and great applications.
What's the most important thing you've learned this year?
The most important thing I've learned this year is not to take all the experiences and knowledge available to you for granted. I've come to realize that college is a fine balance between academics, extracurriculars and social activities and all aspects are important to help a student mature and grow as an individual. Being an undergraduate is a once in a lifetime experience so I plan on making the most of it. At what other time in your life can you take a class in Chocolate Chemistry?
What's one thing you're always sure to take to class?
My little leather planner. I literally write everything in it so it keeps me on track.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
With a master's degree in food science, hopefully working in the food industry with a job relating to food chemistry or product development.
What's the strangest or coolest thing that's happened to you at UGA?
I'd have to say either the Athens atmosphere during Halloween or Georgia v. Florida at St. Simons, Ga and Jacksonville, Fl. Both events, especially when combined, are insanely fun. I love it!
What is your favorite thing to do outside class?
Try new restaurants and lunching on sunny spring days in downtown Athens with my friends. My goal to eat at all the restaurants in Athens is almost complete!
What is your best advice for incoming freshmen?
Keep in mind the grades you make freshman year determine your cumulative GPA. Additionally, take your placement exams! Two hours during orientation is nothing compared to a semesters worth of an introductory class that you could have placed out of.
What is one thing about yourself that sets you apart?
I was born on leap day, February 29, 1988, so I'm actually only 5 and 1/4!