For Students
Where you BELONG
You’ve determined the right profession for yourself and now you want to explore all it has to offer. There is no better way to do this than by attending IFT FIRST: Annual Event and Expo.
As future IFT leaders within the food science and technology profession, undergraduate and graduate students of Institute of Food Technologists Student Association (IFTSA) are an active and integral part of IFT FIRST.
Here are the top three reasons you want to attend IFT FIRST:
- Endless opportunities to immerse yourself in the field and grow your knowledge base about the issues impacting the global food system.
- Connection with peers and food industry leaders who can help with your professional growth and career development.
- Participation in IFTSA or Division competitions, networking opportunities and other fun social activities that will enhance your IFT FIRST student experience.
Student Basics
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IFTSA Student Kick-Off
If you are you attending IFT FIRST for the first time and would like to learn how to navigate the event, plan to join us for the IFTSA Student Kick-Off for Students on Sunday, July 14 at 3PM in the Student Lounge (Vista Ballroom). We’ll walk you through the can’t miss events and introduce you to other students. Immediately following is the first PepsiCo Meet and Greet. We can’t wait to meet you!
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Networking/Social Events
Past participants have noted the ability to network and socialize with peers from all over the globe as one of their favorite parts of the event. The IFTSA provides several opportunities to network with peers and professionals.
Here is just a sample of the many social events you’ll be able to tap into:- IFTSA Student Lounge
Located in the Vista Ballroom, this is a comfortable area open to students for gathering, networking, and relaxing between sessions. Students are encouraged to visit the Student Lounge for networking opportunities, as well as an onsite guide for students and OFG swag. - Division Networking Reception
- IFT Resource Group Networking Hours
- IFTSA and Feeding Tomorrow Fund Networking
- IFTSA Closing Ceremony
And these are just the beginning of all the great opportunities you will have to meet and learn from other science of food peers and professionals.
- IFTSA Student Lounge
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PepsiCo Meet & Greets for Students
As the IFTSA Student Lounge sponsor, PepsiCo is offering opportunities to casually meet with Food Science and Engineering professionals who work in various areas of R&D at the company. Students are welcomed to network with PepsiCo employees, ask questions about the company's products, culture, and career opportunities, and gain insights into the latest trends and developments in the food and beverage industry.
PepsiCo Meet and Greets will occur at the following times in the Student Lounge (Vista Ballroom):
- Sun, July 14: 3:00PM - 4:00PM
- Mon, July 15: 10:00AM - 11:00AM
- Tues, July 16: 2:00PM - 3:00PM
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Top 5 Tips for Navigating the Expo Floor
Part of IFT FIRST, you have the opportunity to experience the latest developments in food science research and technology. Here are some tips to navigate the Expo floor.
1. Make a List – Before you arrive, decide which companies on the expo floor you want to visit and your reason.
2. Time Your Entrance – Expo vendors are here to do business and their busiest days are Monday and Tuesday. Late Tuesday or Wednesday are the best days to engage with vendors.
3. Have a Purpose – Be sure to ask thoughtful questions about the company. Listen to what they have to say and be ready to respond.
4. Manners Matter – Good manners always make a great impression. Before helping yourself to literature, samples, or giveaways, ask – but only if you really need them. And please only take one.
5. Be Yourself – You’re your best champion. Introduce yourself confidently with a smile and let them know you are a student.