Featured Student: Junzhuo Lu

What is your field of study?

I study Food Science, as a Land and Food Systems major, and I plan to graduate in May 2024.

Why did you choose to enroll in Co-op?

I opted to enroll in Co-op to explore my interest in both academia and the food industry.

Recognizing the significance of gaining exposure to both realms before completing my studies, I found that Co-op presented a valuable chance to explore both. This enables me to strategically shape my future career trajectory, by making informed decisions based on firsthand experiences.

Which positions did you work during Co-op?

I worked as a research assistant at the Castellarin Lab and BC Blueberry Council for my first Co-op term.

Then I worked as a Research and Development intern for the Advanced Research and Technology team at Daiya Foods for three terms. 

Were there any Land and Food Systems courses that you feel best prepared you for these roles?

The food science laboratory courses (Food, Nutrition and Health 325 & 326) were certainly valuable! While the technical skills are definitely valuable, it also prepared me for scientific writing and data analysis.

The food analysis course (Food, Nutrition and Health 302) was also a big help as it covered the principles of chromatography in detail.

Can you tell us a little more about your work with BC Blueberry Council?

Over the summer, I was working at the Castellarin Lab (in the UBC Wine Research Center) on a research project funded by the BC Blueberry Council.

One of my duties was chromatographic analysis and I focused on is GC/MS (gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy). The process flow included preparing cryogenic blueberry samples, grinding, mixing with reagents, running samples in the GC/MS and manual integration of the results. 

Through this method, we are quantifying and comparing aromas (volatile compounds) in different cultivars of blueberries, and can ultimately contribute to determining which cultivars are the most suited for growing in BC. 

Wow! What a fascinating and valuable contribution to our local agriculture. After your experience in the industry, do you have any tips on berry harvesting?

Two things are most important for working in the field on hot summer days: protecting yourself from UV and mosquitoes! I would recommend wearing long sleeves and pants, sunscreen, a big hat and waterproof boots (as grass can be very wet in the morning).

Can you share your favourite experience while in Co-op?

My favourite experience is brainstorming in this team full of wise, yet humble scientists.

Their wealth of wisdom is generously shared, enhancing my practical skill set. Despite being an undergrad and feeling less experienced compared to my fellow scientists, they consistently motivate me to contribute my insights and ideas during our meetings. Their unwavering support and constructive feedback when I present valuable points are incredibly empowering, fostering a sense of respect and value for my contributions.

This environment encourages me to continuously expand my learning beyond my designated responsibilities, equipping me with invaluable critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. The gratification of translating theoretical knowledge into real-world applications is immensely rewarding, as we collectively strive to enhance our products through collaborative efforts.

What was your best achievement in Co-op?

My most notable achievement during my Co-op experience was leading a project aimed at optimizing packaging conditions at Daiya Foods in my role as a Research and Development intern.

This undertaking involved a multifaceted approach, including designing and executing experiments, meticulously analyzing data and ultimately crafting a comprehensive presentation and report.

Can you tell us a little bit more about the work you did as a Research and Development intern at Daiya Foods?

I contributed to multiple research projects to improve the texture, flavour and colour of various vegan cheese analog products.

In my day-to-day responsibilities, I performed the analysis of food product formulations and/or ingredients (such as pH, moisture, viscosity, texture, stability and micro testing).

We also had the opportunity to come up with our own project for each term. For example, I independently developed protocols to quantify the textural parameters of a novel vegan cheese product and created an SOP for my first term at Daiya. It was challenging, yet exciting and I gained invaluable problem-solving and critical-thinking skills from that experience.

What did you feel most challenged by and how did you overcome it?

I felt challenged by job interviews. English is not my first language and I tend to stumble when feeling anxious, so I didn’t feel confident during the interview process.

To overcome this challenge, I dedicated time to practice responses to frequently asked questions in job interviews. More importantly, the mock interviews with my coordinators were tremendous help. Their guidance and practice sessions proved instrumental in building my confidence and refining my interview skills.

I also engaged in practice sessions with my peers, where we simulated interview scenarios and provided constructive feedback to one another. With persistent effort and preparation, I managed to secure a job successfully. This experience not only taught me the importance of practice and seeking guidance but also highlighted the growth that can come from confronting and overcoming personal challenges.

How do you feel Co-op helped your personal growth?

Co-op has significantly contributed to my personal growth in ways that extend beyond the acquisition of hard and soft skills.

Apart from the valuable knowledge and abilities I've gained, I've also fostered lifelong friendships that left an indelible impact.

Through Co-op, I've had the privilege of building relationships with both experienced scientists and fellow students. These connections have not only broadened my professional network but have also enriched my life on a personal level. It's more than just forging connections for future career prospects, it's about cultivating genuine and lasting friendships.

How do you feel Co-op has helped your career?

Co-op has played a pivotal role in shaping and advancing my career through the cultivation of two key skill sets: independent problem-solving and on-site troubleshooting.

During my Co-op experiences, I've been exposed to real-world challenges and scenarios that require me to think critically and devise effective solutions on my own. This process has allowed me to develop the capacity to analyze complex issues from various angles, identify root causes and formulate strategic plans of action. Through hands-on involvement in projects, I've gained the confidence to tackle problems independently, which is a vital skill in any professional setting.

Additionally, Co-op has provided me with invaluable opportunities to engage in on-site troubleshooting. These experiences involve quick thinking and adaptability, as I'm required to address unexpected issues as they arise. Whether it's a technical glitch, a logistical hiccup or an operational challenge, the exposure to on-site troubleshooting has refined my ability to stay composed under pressure and devise immediate solutions to ensure the smooth progression of tasks.

What advice would you offer future Co-op students?

If you're on the fence about participating in a Co-op program, I wholeheartedly recommend taking the leap and doing it!

I understand that the idea of job searching and working in a professional setting might seem daunting, but the benefits are truly invaluable. Co-op not only prepares you for your future career by providing real-world experience, but it also offers a fresh and enlightening perspective on your chosen field of study. Through Co-op, you'll have the chance to apply your classroom knowledge in practical situations, develop essential skills and build a network of contacts in your industry. It's an opportunity to discover your own interests, strengths, and areas of growth, all of which will contribute to your personal and professional development. So, embrace the challenge, step out of your comfort zone and make the most of this chance to set yourself up for a successful and fulfilling future.

What are you looking forward to after graduation?

After graduation, I'm looking forward to pursuing a master’s in fermentation.

Co-op has given me a taste of just how amazing and diverse this field can be and I want to explore it in greater depth.