Writing Assignment #5

           My attendance at Tidewater Community College, and currently Old Dominion University, has been a long and stressful journey, filled with numerous late nights studying and completing assignments. Some days the work was easy, and other days the assignments seemed to never end. As a current student at Old Dominion University, I am currently studying environmental health, and there were many situations which put me in this position. Although this path has been occupied with large amounts of schoolwork and all of my best efforts, I personally believe it helped shaped my current goals and personal skills I have today.

           Beginning at Tidewater Community College, I was originally studying cyber security, as the idea of protecting networks from possible cyber threats and physical attacks seemed interesting to me. After two semesters I found that the courses were no longer in my interests, and I decided to switch to science. During some self-reflection, I couldn’t think of an answer regarding my life after graduating college, and what career I’d like to be involved in. I was researching possible careers in other fields not involving technology, and I eventually came across food science. Food science involves managing, planning, and certain technical skills. Working in the laboratory on developing new food products seemed really interesting, so I thought I would give it a try. I have also excelled in courses such as, biology and chemistry. Also, during my time at Tidewater Community College, I was attending a nutrition course, and during this time, we were learning about current food shortages in various international countries. After writing numerous papers regarding the food shortage, it motivated me to get involved with the problem. As I was transferring to ODU, I wanted to major in food science. Unfortunately, the school does not offer the program, so I decided to study environmental health. The courses this program offers provides me and others with skills to manage and evaluate current problems with the health of others and the environment. I’ve also taken high level chemistry and biology classes which have developed my skills in writing and research. Perhaps by starting small and volunteering in the community, I can build up my skills to help those in need around the world. Looking towards the future, and with these thoughts in mind, I would like to start out in food safety after graduating college. I believe this is the right step towards my future career, and I’m honestly excited for it.

           Overall, based on my past experiences before college, I was never sure on what I wanted to accomplish after school. I was feeling lost and this strange idea of change and transitioning to the real world was really new to me. I don’t regret any of the choices I’ve made during my time in school, as it led me to my current mindset. Now, I’m interested in volunteering at a foodbank to get closer to my career goal. I’ve been motivated to help those in need in my local community, and I’m hoping I can provide care to those around the world as well. These goals could possibly change in the future, but after being involved in different experiences, I’m open and optimistic to any new opportunities I may come across.