The Food Science Club is an academic club that fosters the relationship between fellow Food Science majors and increases learning outside of the classroom and lab. Our Club is a student chapter of the Institute of Food Technologists. Being a part of IFT means that we compete in College Bowl and Product Development competitions with other Food Science schools around the country; additionally, membership opens a number of opportunities in the food industry by providing connections to professionals and companies across the globe. Ultimately, the club offers opportunities for networking, career advancement, and fun learning and experimenting surrounding food science.
This year, due to the pandemic, all of our events were held virtually. Typically when we fundraise we put the money towards paying for event supplies and traveling to competitions or food processing facilities for tours. Due to the fact that we did not have to spend money on any of these expenses with virtual events, we used our fundraiser money for a virtual chocolate tasting event with a local chocolatier. Over 60 students signed up and all will be delivered chocolates to taste during the event. The event was paid for by the Food Science Club, the Graduate Student Organization, and the Food Science Department so it will be free for all in attendance. With the money we raise through UMass Gives we hope to host more events like this for our students in the future (hopefully in person!)