Alumni days: Maria SILVA DIEZ (Food & Health, 2021, Beauavais)

- Why did you choose to study in France? What did it bring you?

Having been curious since childhood, I've always wanted to experience life abroad, outside my native Colombia. At the start of my studies in agri-food at Unilasallista in Medellin, I discovered the possibility of doing an exchange through partnerships with different universities. I was sure I wanted to learn another language, and the country that pushed me the most out of my comfort zone was France.
That's how I ended up at UniLaSalle Beauvais, where I enrolled in the Food & Health specialization, which enabled me to obtain a double degree.

It was an unforgettable and highly enriching experience, both personally and academically. It wasn't all easy at first, but seeing the personal evolution over time was very gratifying.

What's more, meeting people from over 30 different countries made me aware of the resilience, adaptability and transformation we develop by migrating, exploring new things and building a new identity.

- When you finished your studies, did you stay in France?

I chose to stay in France because of the professional opportunities I was offered. I did, however, take a break for a few months in Colombia in 2022 to reflect on my future. After that, I decided to return to France.

- What has been your career path since graduating?

After graduating, I completed an unforgettable R&D internship at Phileo by Lesaffre in 2020, focusing on the implementation of yeast in pig feed. Then, in 2021, I gained experience in chocolate production and quality management, providing technical assistance services. I also carried out a Wwoofing volunteer mission in the south of France, in the agriculture and food processing sectors.
At the end of 2022, I returned to the Lesaffre group in R&D at Downstream Process Design, where I was responsible for developing and implementing innovative equipment for yeast drying.
Following this last experience, in 2024, I decided to set up Connectial, a consulting company specialized in the agri-food sector, supporting customers in Europe and internationally, with a focus on product development, innovation, regulation and continuous training, taking into account sustainable development and social responsibility.

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- How do you see your future?

I visualize myself exploring my potential and creativity while developing high-impact products and services.

It's also a chance to seek out and create many opportunities to learn and do what I love. There's nothing like having peace of mind and good health, so I can enjoy life to the full and continue to share precious moments with the people I love in France and elsewhere.