As students pursuing our passion in food science and nutrition, our overseas internship at Jiangnan University in China became something far more meaningful than we ever expected. Stepping into a completely new environment far from home, we were filled with uncertainty. Everything felt unfamiliar, from the language to the pace of work. Yet it was in this discomfort that we began to grow.

We were assigned to two laboratories focusing on food product development and chemistry. Concepts such as formulation, protein functionality, and processing were no longer just theories but real challenges we had to navigate. In the protein research laboratory, we worked on experiments such as protein extraction, extrusion, and supporting in vivo studies. These experiences opened our eyes to how food can go beyond nutrition and play a role in health and well-being.

One of the most meaningful experiences was working on a functional beverage using processes such as high-pressure homogenisation and UHT treatment. While it seemed technical at first, it slowly became something more meaningful. Every small adjustment we made, every parameter we monitored, felt like a step towards creating something that could one day benefit others. It made us realise that food science is not just about knowledge, but about impact.

What touched us most was the people we met along the way. Our mentors guided us patiently and believed in us even when we doubted ourselves. Their passion and dedication reminded us why we chose this path. In those moments, we were no longer just students learning in a lab, but individuals growing into who we aspire to be.

Living and working overseas also changed us in ways we did not expect. We learnt to be independent, to support one another, and to find strength in unfamiliar situations. The long days, the small victories, and even the setbacks became part of a journey that shaped us deeply.