Ayeley Theodora Afantchao

Nutritional Sciences

Childhood bout with malnutrition inspired her passion for knowledge

Hometown

Gainesville, Ga.

Major

Nutritional Sciences

Activities/Honors

Cru, SAFCS, Pre-PA association, Reach Scholar, HOPE Scholar, Athens Church, Premium Seating Ambassador

Why did you choose your major?

I immigrated to the U.S. at the age of 6 from West Africa with hopes of a better life. With that came many obstacles trying to navigate through the American lifestyle and one of those was the diet. My body struggled adjusting to the food here because it was not nearly what I had back home. So for the next eight years, I had malnutrition. The school system did not provide the best diet at the time, and it was hard for me to get the nutrients I needed when everything around me was fried or filled with fat. Fast forward to now, I am an advocate for children’s diet and the importance of the effects food has on our health and development. That is why I chose nutritional science as my major.

Why did you want to be a FACS Ambassador?

I wanted to be a FACS Ambassador to let others know about the benefits FACS has to offer.

What do you like most about FACS?

I love my FACS family because they accept me for me. The students, staff and faculty can make everyone feel like they belong, and it is beautiful. There is help at every corner in Dawson Hall and even after the years of graduation too.

What advice would you give to new students?

Talk to anyone and everyone! I made my closest friends while waiting for a free T-shirt in Tate.

What is your favorite place to study on campus?

My “secret” place to study is inside the Georgia Center. They have an outside sitting with picnic tables and an inside quiet zone for studying.

What is one thing you wish more people knew about FACS?

I wish people knew more about how valuable FACS majors/degrees are! FACS offers more than academic and educational knowledge. It prepares students for life after graduation. We learn about financial planning, family relationships interior design and more.