Jenny Rusli
BSci (Biochemistry & Pharmacology) 2002, MFoodSci (2004)
"I previously obtained my BSc degree from the University of Melbourne and found the learning experience very rewarding – the quality of teaching was good, the staff were helpful and the multicultural environment very welcoming. It therefore seemed natural to continue at the Uni when I decided to continue with my further education.
"My background was in general science (biochemistry and pharmacology), but I had always had an interest in the more applied aspect of science and food – I found it very satisfying when I could see where the ‘end products’ are (such as new food products in the supermarket!). Master of Food Science was a new course offered by the Uni back then, and it seemsed to be an excellent way of combining the two. After talking to Hubert Roginski (the program coordinator), who’s really enthusiastic about the program, I was convinced to join the program.
"The program was new and relatively small at that time but it covered a wide range of modules/subjects encompassing various areas of food science. This was really beneficial as it gave me a general understanding on various aspects of food science (and no, food science is not about cooking – which is what a lot of people thought !). We also had several industry visits and pracs (such as ice-cream making or butter making) which were very interesting.
"The most challenging aspect of the program were related to time management and tight deadlines. There were a lot of written assignments in this program and this was very different with how the undergraduate science course was structured.
"The highlight of the course was the opportunity to partake project work at Food Science Australia – which is the company I still work for at the moment! My project was on the area of oil microencapsulation – I was fortunate to have very helpful mentors/supervisors and this project actually provided an excellent introduction to food research area and allowed me to learn valuable experience at exponential rate.
"The course is of high relevance to my current job. Shortly after I completed my Master course, there was a job opening at Food Science Australia which I applied for and successfully obtained. I have been working on emulsions and encapsulation systems since then - a complex multidisciplinary area which is very challenging and interesting. I am thoroughly enjoying myself here, as the working environment was great and the work provides a blend of basic research as well as collaborative research with industry. I am really glad that I can work in my area of interest – it makes much more enjoyable when you have passion for what you are doing! "