Zane Aguiar from Freeport, ME, is a dual major in Nutrition Dietetics & EcoGastronomy at UNH and is set to graduate in 2027.
COLSA: Why did you choose UNH?
Zane Aguiar: I chose UNH because of the welcoming culture and the opportunities it provides. No matter what your major is, UNH lays out the classes you need to take concisely and understandably, something other colleges don't do. They also provide countless opportunities to complement these classes, such as job shadows, volunteering, and research. These only enhance your experience here and allow you to get the most out of your education. This is something that sets you apart in the future when looking for jobs, and UNH provides these better than any other school I toured.
COLSA: What do you love about your major?
Zane: What I love most about my major is the people and the opportunities it provides. Everyone I've worked with is genuine, and I've been able to make many strong connections throughout my time in both programs. This summer, I am studying abroad in Italy as part of both curriculums. I have also participated in many other great activities as a Dietetics major, including volunteering and providing food for athletes at the Fueling Station and being a research assistant in the CHANAS study. The Nutrition program offers streamlined opportunities for students and a welcoming group of staff and other students that allows everyone who comes through it to achieve their goals to the highest level possible.
COLSA: What has been your best academic experience at UNH?
Zane: Participating in the CHANAS study has been a cool experience. This study, conducted by the nutrition staff, aims to determine the health of young adults in college. Students in the NUTR 400 (basic nutrition class) are chosen to participate as they generally have an interest in such topics and represent a wide range of different individuals and majors. Throughout the year, many tests are performed on these students, such as measuring blood glucose levels, resting calorie expenditure, blood pressure, and basic anthropometrics (height, weight, etc.). The students then use these measurements in labs throughout the year. As a freshman, I participated in this study, and this year I have had the honor of participating again, this time as a research assistant conducting the tests. It is amazing to see both sides of this long-running study and participate in such a coveted opportunity.
COLSA: What has been your best experience outside the classroom at UNH?
Zane: Exploring the area around UNH with friends has been fantastic. We often visit Portsmouth to ice skate, play mini-golf, and enjoy the local scenery, including waterfalls and swimming spots.
COLSA: How is UNH preparing you to achieve your goals?
Zane: UNH is helping me achieve my goals through the field opportunities as well as the faculty. The faculty are always available to help, whether it's by providing job leads, writing recommendations, or offering career advice.
COLSA: What should prospective students know about UNH?
Zane: Prospective students should know that UNH is a great place to begin your journey to future success. There is a great culture here, and no matter what your major is, the staff and fellow students are looking out for you and will go out of their way to support you and your future goals.
COLSA: Can you share a unique or interesting fact about yourself?
Zane: I'm a huge winter sports fan. I love skiing and playing pond hockey with friends during the winter months.
