Orientation

I have spent the last two days at the official school orientation and i must say that my excitement and pride for the journey I have embarked on is stronger then ever.

As the Talking Head's song goes "And you may ask yourself, well, how did I get here"

I knew I was choosing the right school, but now I know even more as to why. The University has pride in taking a very interdisciplinary approach to real world problems. Traditionally a strong liberal arts school, the school is more recently known for graduating some of the most provocative thinkers and more importantly players in global affairs.

Today I did more then take a tour of the Medford campus. I feel like I have taken a tour of myself. A video entitled: TUFTS IS? was shown at the end of the orientation and it awoke some passion in me to attempt to attack complicated issues in order to be that change I wish to see in the world. The morning session revealed even more opportunities for involvement with faculty and staff to work on research. I know this is something I would like to do and will in fact do.

I have been thinking a lot about what path I should take during my short time at Tufts, in particularly, my schedule. My adviser recently asked me the ultimate question, "What is your dream job." That is a good question! Have you ever thought about it? Is it money? Partially. Is it making an impact. Absolutely. Is it doing what you love? Yes again.

Exploring this question, I thought creating a list of my current interests in the field might help. I think it falls somewhere between policy making/research AND program design and development. (like CSPI, USDA)

I am hesitant to get trapped in a place where red tape is going to compromise my ideals and passions, so I am not sure if government is a safe place for me, but I am not completely oppose. I believe you have to get into the mouth of the beast to make change and I am willing to do so.

So here is my current list of interests/movements/issues/research ideas:

market control and conglomeration of the beef industry and its control of policy exp. environmental laws

the use of antibiotics in the meat/milk industries and the effects on the population and environment (MRSA, water systems)

the environmental impact of our current food system (producing, packaging, transporting etc) and the effect of an overhaul- how to move forward when we need to move back

Biotechnology, GMO's and food labeling (possibly the use of allergies as a door stop for possible policy) Right to know legislation, safety and proper testing BEFORE these foods hit the markets, as well as the effects of GMO on small farmers, developing nations (ie Soya Republic in Argentina) I am also interested in human rights and the tactics of large corporations over these defenseless populations

Food labeling/country of orgin

Sustainability in general

Water in general

So that's a start. I also think staying with FPAN(Food Policy and Applied Nutrition) is my decision. I was strongly considering changing to AFE (Agriculture Food and Environment). So I am staying with my first choice reason being, I think the skill base translates into the real world and potential job prospects easier.

As far as my schedule is concerned, I will for sure be taking:
Fundamentals of Public Policy
Statistical Methods in Nutrition Research
Fundamentals of United States Agriculture

As far as my 4th class: I wanted to take one of Dr. Krimsky's classes, because he was recommended to me by some other colleagues. Check out his bio. The only one he has available is
UEP 0277-01 ADVANCED SEMINAR: SOCIAL RISK AND TOXIC CHEMICALS: BUT it doesn't fit in my schedule.

His other classes of interest are:
Social Risk and Toxic Chemicals
Biotech, Nature and Society &
Chemicals, Health and Environment


There is one class that fits in my schedule this semester:
UEP 284 Developing Sustainable Communities with Julian Agyeman on Tuesday at 1:30 at the Medford Campus. I looked at his bio and his class can't be anything short of amazing. I shot him an email to see if it was possible to take the class and if I could take a food systems approach with my work so we shall see. Check out his bio too! AMAZING

I am also strongly thinking of doing the Water Certificate with a project focusing on runoff and usage of the beef industry.

Our program is very international and has students from Uganda (working in Darfur region), China, Japan, Russia, Croatia, and almost every state in the US. We also have a guy from the Netherlands. Of course he is super cute, so I am trying to ignore him so I can focus on my studies. HAHA!

My Dad asked if I am making friends. I am making some of the best. We are taking time out to really explore this amazing city and everything it has to offer. Today we relaxed by playing frisbee in the park. Apparently Tufts has quite the ultimate fribee team!

There are 200 bibs reserved for Tufts students that want to train (with trainers) for the Boston marathon. I haven't decided yet, but it is in my grasp.

I am still a bit overwhelmed. Excited. Ready!