Studying under her own terms
She has a passion for cooking and long history of working in catering and food production. She also has an academic background in business management and marketing. This combination was the perfect platform for Australian born Hanna Kristofers to develop further within the world of food and meal science. And the online education enables her to do it under her own terms.
Hanna Kristofers has enjoyed the flexibility of the program, the diversity of her fellow students and the high level of expertise and knowledge of her teachers.
Why did you choose the Master Program in Food and Meal Science?
– I applied for this program on a whim when I saw it was open for late application, and it fit my background and experience with food perfectly. I have travelled to and lived in a few different countries, and I enjoy learning about local food traditions and cultures. I love preparing, cooking and sharing food with others.
Why did you consider studies at Kristianstad University?
– I like the idea of studying with a university in Sweden even though the program is completely online.
What is your experience of online education and distance learning?
– I have really appreciated the flexibility of the program. I have two young sons that take up a lot of my time, so it is great to be able to schedule in my study time on my own terms.
“The work placement was a really great experience because I was able to put the knowledge I had gained from my courses into action.”
Can you tell us about your work placement?
– I was lucky enough to find a position with a company that supports and promotes local food production. The work placement was a really great experience because I was able to put the knowledge I had gained from my courses into action, and of course it looks very good on a CV.
– I really recommend doing a work placement to any other students who get the opportunity!
What is the best experience from your studies so far?
– It is difficult to pin-point one “best” thing about my studies. I have enjoyed the flexibility of the program, the diversity of my fellow students and the high level of expertise and knowledge of my teachers.
– My experience with my studies has been a very positive one, and it will be bittersweet to finish this program as I have really enjoyed working with all of the coordinators and lecturers.
“This is a multidisciplinary program, so future options are quite broad.”
Do you have future plans for your career?
– This is a multidisciplinary program, so future options are quite broad. I would love to do a PhD within food science. I am interested in sustainable food systems and hope to be able to work within that field.
Any tip for future students?
– It's really up to you how much involvement you have in your distance studies. Make an effort to get to know your teachers and fellow students, because doing an online program can feel make you feel lonely at times so it's important to have a support network!