Coral Colyer
What drew you to ¹úÃñ²ÊƱ Food Science Program, and how did it align with your career goals?
My early career ambition was to make a positive impact on the lives of others through a healthier food supply. During my high school years I could see that a broad and lasting way to do this was through the role of a dietitian working in the food industry, but before I could pursue a Masters in Nutrition & Dietetics I first had to really understand the science of food and how it makes its way to the plate. The ¹úÃñ²ÊƱ Food Science Program, with its rich combination of theory, labs, industry immersions, thesis study, thought leaders in the faculty and strong connections into industry was the perfect undergraduate program for me.
Was there a specific experience here that shaped your career path? If so, what was it and how did it shape your career path?
There were so many experiences over my four years at ¹úÃñ²ÊƱ that provided insights, inspiration and nudges in shaping my career journey. If I must draw out one it would be the impact of the nutrition stream, both the academic team and the thesis project I took on in that field. It’s been my privilege to have learnt from mentors in the Nutrition discipline, both as an undergraduate and into my professional career. My thesis study to generate food composition data to supplement the Australian food composition database gave me an appreciation of the value of such data to the broader public health arena. I’ve drawn upon all of this in just about every stage of my career, from my time at Goodman Fielder and the National Heart Foundation driving food reformulations out to the global stage at Codex Alimentarius contributing to food labelling standards.
What skills from the program do you use most in your current role?
The scientific approach to problem solving! When faced with a challenge to resolve, pausing first to clearly define the problem, develop an hypothesis and designing the right approach to test it out, gather the data to support or refute that hypothesis. It’s a skill I apply even today in my role to uplift capability development across our STEM talent at the Coca-Cola company.
How did the program help you overcome career challenges?
The ¹úÃñ²ÊƱ Food Science Program was instrumental here by first providing a strong reputation and pathway into my Masters to become a dietitian. It equipped me with essential knowledge of the science of food and industry operations, which was crucial for first establishing, then later furthering, my career working with the food industry. I’ve always stayed close to the faculty since graduation, valuing them as my network and often serving as a mutual sounding board for challenges, ideas and opportunities.
What advice would you give students wanting to follow a similar path?
Always listen to understand, not just to respond, and maintain a sense of curiosity. This curiosity will drive you to explore new ideas and opportunities, leading to both personal and professional development. Building a strong network is invaluable for your career, start now while you are studying! As you journey your career, stay open-minded and humble in your approach, I’ve found this mindset has helped me continuously learn and grow.