Audrey Wirasatki is a junior Food Bioscience and Agricultural Economics major from Lexington, KY
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Why did you choose your program, and/or how does your program contribute to your career goals?
I want to be a product developer for a food company, specifically something in consumer packaged goods (ie. snacks, candy). This isn't necessarily a life-long goal I've always had, but it is something that has been massively fulfilling to pursue and is going to be really cool to do for a living. I've always had an interest in the food industry, and I ended up by chance learning about food science as a discipline in high school, and that has since been a really defining moment in my life. This in addition to my interest in economics is what has led me to study Food Science and Agricultural Economics. I think a lot of students face difficulties carving career paths at such a young age, but sometimes it really is about pursuing that niche interest that tickles your brain, creating space for yourself in that field, and getting to have really cool experiences that give you the confidence to do what you want to do.
Have you completed an internship, job, or been involved with a club that has been especially meaningful to you?
Considering all you have learned in your area of study, is there a common misconception or something you wish everyone knew about the subject? In other words, what does everyone seem to get wrong about your major?
Audrey's Top 3 Cafes in Lexington
- European Delights: technically in Nicholasville, KY; BUT this place has the best cake and pastries you will ever eat in your life. My recommendations are the tiramisu (it has a layer of chocolate in it) or the powder puff with a caramel macchiato.
- Coffee Times Coffee House: this cafe has my favorite latte ever, the iced Hollywood (or hot Hollywood if it's freezing). Awesome study spot and is also connected to a popular local thrift shop!
- High on Art and Coffee: super close to campus and amazing food and drink selection. This is my go-to for a quick pick-me-up with friends and has never disappointed. I love their copango smoothie and vanilla latte!
- Special shout out to Kentucky Native Cafe, it's a cafe connected to a floral shop with a rotating menu. Immaculate vibes.
What was an experience that you discovered at UK that made it worth it?
Spring of my sophomore year, I got to study abroad for a whole semester in South Korea where I took classes at Korea University in Seoul. The college was definitely a huge part of making that opportunity possible for me and it was really an amazing experience. I highly recommend that anyone study abroad, especially if you can go for a whole semester. In the summer of 2025, I will also be doing an internship in research and development at a major candy company. I'm really excited about it and truly feel that all the experiences and involvement I've had within the college are leading me to these exciting opportunities.