The MCURC’s Student Fellows Program
The MCURC Students Fellows program provides undergraduate and graduate students from MCURC member institutions an opportunity to gain experience conducting research that advances healthy, sustainable, delicious food choices in college and university settings. The program offers students a chance to contribute to cutting-edge academic and operational research initiatives at and across MCURC member institutions and to network with peers and professionals from colleges and universities across the country and around the world. Under the mentorship of an advisor from each student’s academic and/or dining service side, MCURC Student Fellows gain valuable experience and act as an important bridge between their own campus–its dining program, student community, faculty researchers, and other stakeholders–and the MCURC.
Click to learn more about the benefits, commitments, and expectations of MCURC Student Fellows and Advisors.
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“Being a Fellow has been an inspirational and eye-opening experience for me. I have loved getting to meet other students, hear the work happening in HEI food space right now, and collaborate with other universities."
Caroline Lim, UC Berkeley, Conservation and Resource Studies, Class of 2027
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“My time as a Student Fellow has been greatly rewarding, working alongside scholars and foodservice leaders to champion truly sustainable solutions. This program has empowered us to make tangible strides toward reshaping campus dining and creating lasting impact across the food system.”
Andrea Catania, Boston University, MS in Gastronomy and Food Policy, Class of 2025
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"I had a teachable experience that exposed me to several interesting studies in the hospitality sector. The research experience created a way for me to secure a Ph.D. admission in Hospitality Management at Auburn University by Fall 2024."
Opemipo Alba Ijose, University of North Texas, M.Sc. Hospitality Management, Class of 2024
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“Being a fellow with the MCURC has been very beneficial for networking and collaboration with other universities and students. It has been exciting to see all of the different projects that are happening around the United States at so many universities. But, also seeing that many people are working for a more sustainable food system."
Honey Gala, Tufts University, M.S. Sustainability, Class of 2025
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"Being a fellow with the MCURC has been very beneficial for networking and collaboration with other universities and students. It has been exciting to see all of the different projects that are happening around the United States at so many universities. But, also seeing that many people are working for a more sustainable food system."
Kimbery Biladeau, Central Washington University, Nutrition and Dietetics, Class of 2024
Meet the 2023-24 Fellows
Co-Managers:
Andrea Catania, Boston University (left)
Jessica Van Wie, Rutgers University (right)
Student Fellows Impact Advisor: Maureen Timmons
Interested in becoming an MCURC Student Fellow or Advisor?
Students can fill out this interest form on a rolling basis and include their advisor contact. They will be notified of the next onboarding call time.
Contact the 2023-24 Fellows Co-Manager: Andrea Catania (Boston University) at andreac@bu.edu
Interested in sponsoring travel for MCURC Student Fellows to attend the annual meeting? Contact Patti Coleman, patricia.coleman@culinary.edu
MCURC Student Fellow Projects
See below for examples of student fellow-led research projects during their time as MCURC undergrad or graduate fellows.
