International student Aishwarya Jha is nearing graduation from the MSc Applied Food Safety & Innovation at the University of Central Lancashire, equipped with the knowledge, skills and real-world experience to launch a meaningful career in the food industry.
Aishwarya already holds a Master’s in Chemical Sciences and a Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, both of which she studied when living in India.
She chose to study in the UK to deepen her expertise in food safety and build a global perspective. This was a goal supported by both a merit-based international scholarship and a bursary offered by the university, which reduced her tuition fees.
"The scholarship really helped. Once the university reviewed my academic background, they awarded it to me and it made my studies here much more affordable."
— Aishwarya Jha, MSc Applied Food Safety & Innovation student
Throughout her time on the course, Aishwarya has taken full advantage of the opportunities on offer, from lab-based practicals and innovative projects to a three-month internship with Blackpool Council.
Aishwarya said: “I worked on food safety audits in both primary and secondary schools. We visited kitchens, interviewed staff, checked temperature records and everything needed to ensure the highest food safety standards were being met. It was really hands-on.”
Aishwarya also praised the course’s practical elements, particularly a nutrition-focused project where she developed a healthier muffin recipe using alternatives such as quinoa flour, oats and coconut sugar.
She said: “We made the recipe in the Foster Building kitchen and then tested it in the labs, measuring pH, water activity, and checking for contamination. The university provided all the ingredients and equipment. It felt like working in a professional environment.”
A consistent theme in her experience has been the support she received from academic staff, especially her Course Lead Dr Jan Mei Soon-Sinclair.
"Dr Jan always made time for us, whether in person or on Teams. She checked we were okay with every module and supported us both individually and in group settings. That personal attention made a big difference."
— Aishwarya Jha, MSc Applied Food Safety & Innovation student
Dr Jan Mei Soon-Sinclair reflects on Aishwarya’s achievements with pride, she said: "Aishwarya has demonstrated real commitment to her studies and a passion for food safety. She actively engaged with every aspect of the course and embraced the opportunity to gain practical experience. I’m confident she will thrive in the food industry.”
Now preparing to submit her final project and graduate in September, Aishwarya plans to apply for jobs in the food sector - ideally in Lancashire, where she hopes to stay.
"Preston is a great place to live. The campus is beautiful, the student centre is one of my favourite places to study, and the library being open 24/7 was a huge help during assignments. I’ve made good memories here, and I’d love to build my career here too."
— Aishwarya Jha, MSc Applied Food Safety & Innovation student
Looking ahead, Aishwarya remains focused on her long-term goal, she said: “I’ve always wanted to work in the food industry, especially in food safety. I feel this course has given me everything I need to get there.”
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