How a UQ International Scholarship helped Tingyu pursue a future in food science

Tingyu was drawn to Brisbane's sunny climate and The University of Queensland's strong academic reputation.

These factors helped her make the decision to move from China to Australia to study a Bachelor of Science (Food Technology) at UQ, supported by a Faculty of Science International Scholarship.

Each year, UQ offers a range of scholarships designed to support high-achieving international students throughout their studies. For Tingyu, receiving a UQ Faculty International Scholarship has been one of many milestones on her journey towards a career in food science and public health.

Choosing UQ and a future in food science

Tingyu says Brisbane and UQ immediately stood out when she was considering her study options. Employability initially influenced her decision to study food technology.

"I chose to study at UQ because I was impressed by the university's strong academic reputation and rigorous approach to education," she says.

"I initially chose this degree because of its strong career prospects and employability. But over time, I've genuinely grown to love the field – especially because it connects so closely to something fundamental to everyone's life, which is food."

Tingyu believes food science has the power to improve people's lives, both on a personal and community level.

"After learning about food and nutrition, I've been able to better look after my family's health – for example, guiding my mum on how to adjust her diet to manage fatty liver disease," she says.

"In the long run, I hope to contribute more widely to public health, making safe and nutritious food accessible not just for my family, but for communities everywhere. That sense of purpose keeps me motivated and proud of what I'm studying."

Rewarding experiences at UQ

Tingyu says one of the things she values most about studying science at UQ is the flexibility to explore different areas on top of focusing on her chosen field.

The Bachelor of Science program gives students the opportunity to build a strong scientific foundation while gaining the skills and flexibility to explore your passions and shape your own career path in science. This allowed Tingyu to explore subjects beyond food science while developing the knowledge and skills that will support her future studies.

"I'm really grateful for the flexible first-year structure here," she says.

"It allowed me to explore different disciplines and build a wider academic foundation. Experiments like observing fruit fly mating taught me the real excitement of hands-on research, while modules in neuroscience and psychology introduced me to fascinating ideas that have really broadened how I think about the world."

Tingyu also talks highly of the study places available inside the University, particularly the libraries.

“One of my highlights at UQ has definitely been spending time in the libraries," she says.

"In my first semester in first year, I had already gotten to know all 7 libraries at the St Lucia campus pretty well! It was something I never imagined doing before coming here. Back home, I hadn’t experienced libraries that were so large, well-equipped, and inviting."

Walter Harrison Law Library

Her time spent in the library, reading and reviewing and diving deep into her studies, has definitely paid off for her. 

“When I first arrived, I struggled with the language barrier and found it hard to adjust academically. But through consistent effort, I was surprised and proud to see that I could keep up with the pace of the courses. That progress, from feeling uncertain to gaining confidence in my ability to learn and adapt, has been one of the most rewarding parts of my UQ experience.”

Study that opens opportunities

During her break from university, Tingyu interned as a New Product Development Technical Intern at Fonterra in Shanghai, gaining valuable industry experience. Fonterra is a leading dairy company from New Zealand, known for household brands like Anchor.

"Through this internship, I'm not only gaining practical insight into the food industry but also developing adaptability, teamwork, and problem-solving skills in a real-world setting," says Tingyu.

The experience has helped her connect academic learning with professional practice and provided insight into career pathways after graduation.

"My goal is to help ensure that people have access to safe and nutritious food," she says.

"Studying at UQ has been instrumental in moving me toward these goals."