Looking back, I realize that every step of this journey has shaped me into the person I am today. The challenges I faced taught me resilience, and the relationships I built along the way enriched my experience. My time at Cornell, backed by the prestigious Fulbright scholarship, has not only provided me with academic excellence but has also opened doors to endless possibilities. As I continue my journey, I am excited to contribute to the field of food science and make a meaningful impact on how we understand and market food.
Embarking on a journey in academia can often feel like stepping into the unknown, especially when your aspirations are as lofty as attending an Ivy League university. My story began at Hasanuddin University, where I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition. This foundational experience ignited my passion for food science, leading me to Curtin University in Australia for my Master’s in Food Science Technology, from which I graduated in 2018. Little did I know, this would be just the beginning of a remarkable journey filled with challenges, learning, and growth.
After five fulfilling years as a lecturer in Jakarta, Indonesia, I found myself at a crossroads. I had developed a keen interest in Food Sensory and marketing food products, and I felt a strong urge to deepen my knowledge and expertise in these areas. However, in my enthusiasm, I made a critical mistake in my strategy. I aimed high, targeting top-tier universities without a solid backup plan in place. This decision would lead me down a winding path of uncertainty and self-discovery.
The moment I received the acceptance letter from Cornell University was breathtaking. The thought of attending The Big Red, with its prestigious reputation and vibrant academic community, filled me with both excitement and anxiety. However, the journey to get there was anything but straightforward. I soon learned that being awarded the Fulbright scholarship was a long and rigorous process. The application required careful preparation and patience, as I navigated through a series of interviews and evaluations.
I submitted my Fulbright application in March 2024, with high hopes for the future. The wait was excruciating, filled with moments of self-doubt and contemplation. Would my dreams of studying in the United States become a reality? After what felt like an eternity, I finally received the news that would change my life: I had been granted the scholarship. However, the timeline was daunting. I wouldn’t land in the U.S. until August 2025, over a year later.
This prolonged waiting period, while challenging, turned out to be a blessing in disguise. It gave me ample time to reflect on my goals and solidify my research interests. I immersed myself in literature on Food Sensory and marketing strategies, connecting with mentors and peers who shared my passion. By the time I arrived at Cornell, I felt more prepared and focused than ever.
As I now embark on this new chapter in my academic journey, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences that have shaped me. The road to a Ph.D. at an Ivy League institution was not a straight line; it was a winding path filled with lessons learned and opportunities seized. My journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of having a clear vision, even when the path is unclear.
In sharing my story, I hope to inspire others who aspire to achieve their academic goals. Remember, while the destination may be important, it is the journey that shapes who we are and prepares us for the challenges that lie ahead. Whether you are a student, an aspiring academic, or someone with a passion for food science, never lose sight of your dreams. With determination and resilience, anything is possible.