Senior Advisor for Nutrition Outreach, Food and Drug Administration
Laura earned a dual Masters degree in Nutrition and Public Health from both the Tufts Friedman School and School of Medicine where she focused on food policy and health communication.
1. What do you love about your job?
I love how my job invigorates and challenges me each day. I spend a significant amount of time talking to external stakeholders about various nutrition issues, allowing us to better understand their unique perspectives, which can vary a lot. We’re then challenged to distill all that information and use it to help develop and inform effective and feasible policies. It’s exciting to meet with so many people from a wide range of sectors that are also passionate about advancing nutrition.
2. How did you get your first job after Friedman?
My very first job after Friedman came from an internship with ChildObesity180. I did my MPH internship with CO180 and came onboard fulltime afterwards for about 6 months. But, my first job in Federal government was through the Presidential Management Fellowship (PMF) — a premier leadership development program across the Federal government that is open to those with advanced degrees. The PMF is two years and acts like a regular career job with some additional perks, including an opportunity to temporarily try out and learn from another job for 4-6 months (we call these “details” in the Federal government). Once the PMF is over, you convert into a normal career position. It’s a fantastic way to enter the Federal government.
3. What/who was the most memorable course/professor at Friedman?
My most memorable course was Determinants of US Food Policy, taught by Parke Wilde. It’s a great introduction to the complexities of and opportunities with Federal government nutrition and food policies. My advisor, Mim Nelson, also had a big influence on me. She always encouraged me to push the envelope on what careers were possible in the nutrition field.
4. What lessons did you learn at Friedman that continue to influence you in your job and career?
Think creatively and always develop targeted strategies to make the most effective impact (this is true for policies and communications). When it comes to nutrition policies, it’s critical to be able to problem solve through creative solutions because there are often obstacles that have to be navigated around. I also learned that you have to reach people where they are.
5. What advice do you have for Friedman students as they embark on their careers?
Don’t worry about having a linear career path. I’ve had several positions in various parts of the Federal government—FDA, USDA, back to FDA, the White House, and then back again to FDA. Moving around has enriched my knowledge and experience that I’m able to bring to my current position. And, it’s okay not to know where you want to end up in 5 to 10 years. I don’t! Be open to opportunities when they come along and leverage your networks when you are ready to explore a new beginning.
Interested in connecting with Laura? Find her HERE.
