Congratulations to our 2024 Summer Semester Graduates!
Once again, graduating FST students have been given an opportunity to share with us some of their favorite memories of their time at Ohio State in this special edition newsletter. Many also took the opportunity to give a shoutout to those that supported them, befriended them, and helped make the journey one to remember.
Congratulations to all the students from the Department of Food Science and Technology who have graduated this semester. We are proud of all that you have accomplished and hope that you will stay connected. Come back to visit and be sure to meet up with us as we continue to engage in various professional food science forums around the world. Just remember, you’re a #BuckeyeForLife
Also, don’t forget to check out the SU24 Graduate Photo Album
Undergraduate Students
Mario Alvarez – [Food Business Management]
Graduate Students
Charles Bakin – My favorite memories at Ohio State were the field trips to Kenya and Ethiopia. During these trips, we visited poultry farms in Kenya and engaged with Ethiopian food safety stakeholders in a risk ranking of foodborne pathogens. These experiences allowed me to apply my studies in real-world settings and work closely with local communities. I am grateful to my advisors for their unwavering guidance and support, and to my friends and family for their constant encouragement. Charles received a master’s degree and was advised by Dr. Nicole Arnold.
Nana Boateng – My time at Ohio State was marked by invaluable experiences, both academic and personal. A few of the memorable experiences include building lifelong friendships with a diverse student body, sharing festive moments like Thanksgiving with colleagues, and engaging in enriching field trips. The mentorship and guidance provided by faculty members significantly shaped my academic growth. I am deeply grateful for the supportive environment fostered by my advisor, lab mates, and friends, which contributed immensely to my overall experience at OSU. Nana received a master’s degree and was advised by Dr. Melvin Pascall.
Vidarshani Ellepola – My favorite memories at OSU include participating in the Taste of OSU, being a part of the University Involvement Fair where we had the opportunity to showcase Sri Lankan culture and participating in the Fulbright Enrichment Seminar in Atlanta. At the seminar, I had the incredible opportunity to meet nearly 100 different Fulbright students from around the globe, representing nearly 60 countries. I've also had the chance to make lifelong friends at OSU. I'm so thankful for all the beautiful memories I’ve created here. Additionally, I would like to give a huge shout out to Dr. Campanella's lab group for being so supportive and creating a joyful place to work. Vidarshani received a master’s degree and was advised by Dr. Osvaldo Campanella.
Min Seung Kim – Min Seung received a master’s degree and was advised by Dr. Jiyoung Lee.
Cindy Lai – Cindy received a master’s degree and was advised by Dr. Melvin Pascall.
Lauren Ma – Lauren received a master’s degree and was advised by Dr. Sheryl Barringer.
Theresa Parr – My favorite memory at OSU was being a member of the Campanella lab- everyone was truly there for each other and to help each other. Theresa received a master’s degree and was advised by Dr. Osvaldo Campanella.
Carlos Porras Guardado – Carlos received a master’s degree and was advised by Dr. Monica Giusti.
Sam Hoffman – My favorite memories would have to be attending conferences with friends and lab mates, particularly the 15th Pangborn Sensory Science Symposium, in Nantes France and the Society of Sensory Professionals (SSP) Conference, in Savannah GA. Also, attending the football games. People I would like to thank include: my PI, Chris Simons, for taking me as a student and helping me to grow and develop as a scientist; my committee, Dr.’s Monica Giusti, Rafael Jimenez-Flores, and Guilherme Signorini, for helping to guide me throughout my degree; my parents, Peter and Kelly Hoffman, for supporting unconditionally throughout my life; my girlfriend, Gwen Caven, who has been a rock throughout this process, and has been nothing but understanding and supportive as I worked on my degree; and my friends, who have been a constant source of support and entertainment. Sam received a PhD and was advised by Dr. Christopher Simons.
Kevin Kim – My favorite memory at OSU was attending Pangborn 2024, in Nantes France. It was my first time in France, and I was able to enjoy travelling and attending an amazing conference with my fellow lab members. It will be an experience I will not soon forget! Kevin received a PhD and was advised by Dr. Christopher Simons.
Devin LaPolt – My favorite memory at Ohio State was going to Ethiopia and meeting all the collaborators on my team in person and trying all the awesome food. I am very grateful for the memories made with friends, family, and colleagues throughout my time at OSU. Devin received a PhD and was advised by Dr. Jiyoung Lee and Dr. Barb Kowalcyk.
Danielle Voss – Some of my favorite memories during my years at OSU have been participating in college bowl, especially winning the national championship in 2022, department thanksgiving meals, presenting my research at ICP in France, and Saturday semi-prep parties. I am so thankful for everyone who has helped and mentored me, especially my advisor Dr. Giusti, lab mates past and present, and the department staff. Danielle received a PhD and was advised by Dr. Monica Giusti.
