Ankita Khole

“UQ’s programs emphasise practical skills and up-to-date food industry standards, which means students don’t just learn theory—they learn how to apply it in current industry settings. This was really important to me because I wanted to graduate with skills that are immediately relevant and valuable in the workplace.”

How did your degree help get you where you are today?

Studying food science and microbiology didn’t just teach me about microbes or food safety, it taught me how to think critically, question processes, and take responsibility for the impact of my work. It gave me the technical foundation to work in food quality, but more importantly, it pushed me to grow as a person.

I learned how to stay calm under pressure, make decisions based on evidence, and communicate clearly with people from different backgrounds. It helped me shift from being just a student to someone who sees the bigger picture—how quality work can protect health, build trust, and improve systems. That mindset has stayed with me and continues to guide how I show up in my career and in life.

What kind of work do you do as part of your job?

As a Process Quality Supervisor, I’m responsible for ensuring that food safety and quality standards are consistently met throughout production.

My core duties include:

• Investigating customer complaints and internal non-conformances, using tools like root cause analysis and driving corrective actions.
• Overseeing the Environmental Monitoring Program (EMP) and managing pest control to ensure site hygiene and compliance.
• Conducting internal audits, as well as Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and Glass & Hard Plastics audits to maintain site readiness.
• Collaborating with operations, research and development, and supply chain teams to troubleshoot quality and safety issues and implement process improvements.
• Managing and updating critical documentation such as Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and work instructions.
• Supporting compliance standards requirements.

These responsibilities allow me to maintain food safety integrity while also contributing to efficiency, continuous improvement, and customer satisfaction.

What is the best part of your job?

I enjoy working in food quality because it challenges me to think critically, solve problems, and protect something as essential as food safety. There’s a real sense of purpose in what I do—knowing that my actions directly impact the safety and trust consumers place in a product. I also enjoy digging into processes, identifying gaps, and helping teams improve. That’s what led me to realise how much I enjoy the auditing mindset.

Over time, I’ve become more interested in the bigger picture—how systems work, how compliance can be strengthened, and how businesses can be supported to meet standards consistently. That’s why I want to move into auditing and eventually consulting. I see it as a way to use my skills to make a broader impact, by guiding companies and people to build stronger, safer food systems.

What was the best part of your time at UQ?

One of the standout highlights was the incredible support I received from both academic staff and student services. Whether it was getting guidance on coursework, discussing career goals with mentors, or simply reaching out when things felt overwhelming, I always felt supported. The approachable and encouraging environment really helped me stay motivated and focused.

Another memorable aspect was the chance to network with professionals and peers through guest lectures, industry seminars, and career events. These interactions gave me valuable insights into the food industry and helped me build connections that continue to support my professional journey.

Socially, being part of such a diverse and inclusive community made a big difference. I had the chance to meet people from all over the world, exchange perspectives, and build friendships that made my university experience so much more enriching. From study groups to casual catch-ups, these connections created a sense of belonging far from home.

And academically, receiving a Dean’s Commendation in my final semester was a proud moment—it reflected my growth and resilience throughout the journey. UQ offered not just education, but a well-rounded experience that helped shape who I am today.

What advice would you offer to anyone thinking about studying at UQ?

Fully embrace both the academic and non-academic sides of the experience. UQ offers top-tier education with real-world relevance, but what truly shapes your journey is how actively you engage with everything around you. The coursework will challenge and prepare you for industry, but your personal growth will often come from beyond the classroom.

So while you focus on your studies, make time for extracurricular activities too—join clubs, attend workshops, volunteer, or simply explore new interests. These experiences build confidence, communication skills, and friendships that stay with you long after graduation. Balancing academics with social and professional engagement helped me grow not just as a student, but as a person.

UQ gives you the environment to thrive—academically, socially, and professionally—if you’re willing to make the most of it.