Anna Smithwick

Background

About Anna Smithwick

Nutrition is the core to health, and I am passionate about learning the science behind holistic and functional nutrition practices, while also understanding sustainable food systems. As a Nutritional Sciences student at Penn State University, I've gained a background in nutrition and dietetics. My knowledge has led me to explore professional opportunities related to food as the backbone to society, and how important not only eating good food is for human health, but also how important it is to consume food from sustainable and thriving food sources. Through working on the Penn State Student Farm, I have been able to more deeply explore how impactful sustainable and farm-fresh food is to our bodies and our communities. I am passionate to understand global food systems and food insecurity as well. During a month spent in Kenya, I was able to speak with local Maasai communities and understand how their relationship to food is changing as climate change increases. Through additional educational and personal experiences, I have also immersed myself within communities in Peru, South Africa, Greece, Italy, Iceland, and Botswana and have learned their food cultures and practices. I am devoted to understanding the impacts of food insecurity around the world, and hope to explore this topic as my career expands. I am eager to explore innovative approaches that integrate both traditional and modern nutritional principles for optimal health and well-being.