Stephanie Hice

The quality of experience gained from a strong program is the foundation of a successful career. My research at Iowa State provides a springboard to my long-term goal of pursuing a career with the Federal government. The strategic nature of my research in developing rapid, inexpensive methods to detect foodborne pathogens in manufacturing processes, coupled with leadership experience as president-elect of the Interdisciplinary Graduate Student Club, provide a foundation of experience and skill, making me an attractive candidate for those organizations with which I wish to seek employment. As a Teaching Assistant for both Food Microbiology and the senior capstone Microbiology laboratory course, I have had the opportunity to foster an environment devoted to learning, communication and teamwork. The skills gained will be useful during my time as a student and a professional. As a two-term member of the Food Science Graduate Administrative committee, I have gained an understanding of the inner workings of an educational program from an administrative perspective. Our committee has spearheaded the campaign to improve course structure, and consequently, augment student learning. Food Science is a rapidly advancing discipline with many exciting research opportunities, to which I intend to contribute over the course of my career.