Welcome to my E-Portfolio!

I was born on March 16, 1987, in Gujarat, India. I am from a family of doctors, engineers, and educators, where girl education is more important than a boy; a family who believes in making their daughters independent and confident. At the age of 20, I moved to “America” to pursue a higher degree. I knew in my early life that I want to help but didn’t apprehend the trail. Tried taking the health care route, but it didn’t work on the time. It was then I recognize my passion for food science. Once I reinvented my passion, I went all out for it. I ne’er knew that it might be my potential career. I attained a bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Food Science with a concentration in nutritional biochemistry from Alabama A&M University. My thesis was focused on the modulatory effect of Psidium guava in reducing the oxidative stress associated with type 2 diabetes. I graduated in May 2016 with Magna Cum Laude degree with many accomplishments. Yay! “Mission accomplished” I made my parents proud and won over all the battles.

In 2017, I started my career with my first job as Associate Scientist at L’Oréal Paris in the raw material outsourcing department. I contributed to transitioning the acquisitions such as IT cosmetics, Vogue, and Skinceuticals. I was mainly in charge of reviewing safety data sheets and technical datasheets, contacting the vendor, sample coordinator, and reviewing the raw material for safety and regulatory purpose. The job provided me many learning opportunities and allowed me to grow.

In 2018, I moved to the food industry, where I truly belong. I worked for Mondelez International for about a year and a half as an associate food scientist. I was part of the global gum and candy innovation team. I liked working in the lab and creating products and running trials at the pilot plant. Ever since I started food science, I had one dream that the product I will make will be seen on the shelves one day. And, this job just provided that, but destiny had different plans. 

In July 2019, I moved back to Norfolk, VA, for personal reasons. Since my relatives are ODU alumni, getting to the program was not difficult. I came to the health science building to obtain admission in the Medical Laboratory technician, but the department rejected my application. I was overqualified! I was then directed to Dr. Durgampudi for the MPH program, and the rest is the history. 

 I am happy that I found this program and was able to tie my past experience with public health. I liked that now I can actually use my expertise in food and nutrition and help people and not the food industry. This program has allowed me to see the horror of food insecurity and food safety which I feel should not even exist in the world with technology and resources. I hope that the skills and knowledge I have gained in my academic career will benefit the community.