Hanyu Luo is an undergraduate student from Chongqing, China, a vibrant city known for its mountainous landscapes and spicy hotpot. At the University of Florida, she is majoring in Food Science through the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, with plans to double major in Statistics. Hanyu is passionate about the intersection of food, health, and data, and she’s especially interested in how scientific research can be applied to improve public well-being. Before coming to UF, Hanyu attended an international high school in China, where she was exposed to both Western and Chinese educational systems. Since arriving in Gainesville, she has immersed herself in volunteer work, joined student organizations like Alpha Zeta, and found community in both academic and extracurricular settings. Hanyu is also a member of the International Student Council, where she contributes to fostering inclusion, support, and cultural exchange among UF’s global student body.

Do you have any professional experience that supports your goals?

  • Although I’m still in the early stages of my academic journey, I’ve worked in UF’s sensory lab. These hands-on experiences have helped me understand the real-world impact of food science and have strengthened my desire to pursue a career in this field.

Why did you choose UF for your undergraduate studies?

  • What drew me to UF was its strong public university reputation, rich research opportunities, and inclusive campus culture. I was also attracted to the hands-on learning approach and the possibility of meaningful community involvement.

Are you involved in any clubs or organizations on campus?

  • Yes! In Fall 2024, I volunteered with Small Bites Nutrition to teach local elementary school students about healthy eating habits. I also joined the Food Science and Human Nutrition team at the Ronald McDonald House to help prepare meals for families with children who need to travel to Gainesville for medical care. In addition, I’m a member of Alpha Zeta, the honors organization supported by CALS, where I’ve found a strong sense of community. My advisor, Dr. Allen Wysocki, has been incredibly supportive and has guided me throughout my involvement in both academic and extracurricular activities.

How has your involvement outside the classroom shaped your UF experience?

  • These activities have helped me gain a broader understanding of how food science applies to real life, while also giving me deeper insight into UF and American culture. More importantly, I’ve built lasting friendships through these shared experiences, which have made me feel more connected and at home within the UF community.

What are your goals after graduation?

  • I haven’t made a firm decision yet, but I hope to travel and gain international work experience. As an international student, I’ve always been drawn to the idea of working across nations—both literally and figuratively. I want to explore different cultures, industries, and communities around the world, and find meaningful ways to contribute wherever I go.

 

How do you hope to use your UF education to make a difference?

  • I’m still exploring my future career path, but UF has already taught me the importance of collaboration, resilience, and knowing when to ask for help. Whether in research or public service, I hope to apply what I’ve learned to make meaningful contributions.

 

How do you feel your presence has contributed to the UF community?

  • As an international student, I bring a unique perspective and add to the cultural diversity of the UF community. I enjoy connecting with people from different backgrounds and learning from their experiences. By engaging in conversations across cultures, I’ve helped create a more open-minded and inclusive environment, where we all get to see the world through each other’s eyes.

 

What advice would you give to other international students coming to UF?

  • Don’t be afraid to reach out, get involved, and ask questions. There’s a lot of support at UF—from professors to peers to the International Center. Also, embrace the sunshine—honestly, there’s almost nothing that can’t be solved with a walk through Plaza of the Americas under the Florida sun!

 

What has been the most rewarding part of your UF experience so far?

  • The most rewarding part has been the people I’ve met, professors who inspire me, friends from around the world who make me feel at home, and the dedicated faculty and staff in CALS who have provided constant support and encouragement throughout my journey.

 

What challenges have you faced as an international student, and how did you overcome them?

  • One of the biggest challenges I faced as an international student was adapting to cultural differences and adjusting to the academic environment. When I first arrived, I felt unfamiliar with the way biology was taught, and I struggled to keep up. However, after attending office hours, I was encouraged by Dr. Jamie Gillooly. That experience not only helped me understand the material better but also gave me the confidence to seek help when needed. Over time, I overcame the challenge and became more comfortable in my studies