4th– Year Food Science student Lochlann Walford discusses his time at the university so far, the opportunities offered to him and his future plans and goals.
Why you chose to study your course at GCU?
I have always had an interest in the food industry and from a young age I had a keen interest in biology which once I started high school I began focusing in on microbiology. I came across the course while applying to different universities and thought it perfectly brought together my two interests. With Food Science at GCU being the only IFST (Institute of Food Science and Technology) accredited course in Scotland it was a no brainer to apply.
Favourite thing about studying your course at GCU?
I really enjoy all the lab work that we take part in throughout each year of the course. It gives us the practical skills that employers are looking for while also reinforcing techniques and knowledge from our lectures. The topics that we cover in our lectures in 3rd and 4th year are very relevant to the food industry and are always kept up to date. We also have been taken on site visits to food and beverage manufactures like Tennant’s. As part of our course we undertake an undergraduate placement in 4th year, I have really enjoyed my time at placement and have learned and experienced so much. The lectures who teach on the course, Dr Janice Taylor and Dr John Butcher, have made it incredibly enjoyable and are always keeping the content up to date and relevant.
What opportunities have been offered to you through studying your course at GCU?
We have the ability to take part in a semester abroad in Tri A 3rd Year with an affiliated university in The Netherlands. We are able to choose our placement provider which allows use to explore a selection of different career options and follow our interests. We have been offered to attend site visits and industry expert talks through the IFST, free of charge. We are able to apply for summer internships between our 3rd and 4th year within the GCUs research labs to gain more experience working in a lab.
Has studying your course at GCU prepared you for working life?
The Food Science course is tailored to industry, it definitely prepares you for working life by providing us with many hard and soft skills. Such as practical lab skills, analytical skills, problem solving skills, communication skills, presenting skills, organisation skills, timekeeping skills, etc. which are all sought after in the food and beverage industry.
Favourite module studied and why?
I have really enjoyed all the modules that we study as they are all so interesting and unique in the areas that they cover, however my favourite so far has actually been my placement which occurs during Tri A of 4th Year. I have undertaken my placement with R-Biopharm Rhone, they produce immunoaffinity products to detect mycotoxins and vitamins in food and feed products, in their Technical Services Department. I have really enjoyed applying the knowledge and skills I have gained over the past 3 years towards completing projects within the department. I also get to interact with other employees from different departments and learn about their backgrounds as well as learn how they have used their experiences and knowledge to aid in their jobs.
What is your plan when you finish studying?
I plan to be working in industry, particularly in the Food Safety sector specifically working in the areas of Food Microbiology and Toxicology.
What is your 5-year plan?
I plan to be working in industry and working towards continuing to expand my knowledge and experiences.
Thank you to Lochlann for featuring in our #UndergradSpotlight. If you would like to feature on our social channels please fill out this form – https://bit.ly/40rUtop or contact us at socialmedia@gcu.ac.uk.
Apply to Glasgow Caledonian today – https://www.gcu.ac.uk/study/undergraduate