Victoria Kellogg finds her food marketing family

KALAMAZOO, MI—Senior food marketing student, Victoria Kellogg, wants to make an impact in the food industry. Originally from Climax, Michigan, Kellogg transferred to the Western Michigan University Haworth College of Business from Kalamazoo Valley Community College (KVCC), bringing with her a passion for the rapid pace and constant innovation of the business world. 

With a few years of food industry work under her belt, Kellogg came to WMU Haworth excited for the opportunities available to her. 

“At KVCC, I majored in marketing and had worked in the food industry since I was 14. When I learned about WMU Haworth's food marketing program, it was an obvious choice for me. The curriculum, with its focus on category management, food marketing analytics, and professional selling, is directly aligned with the industry’s demands. Additionally, the Food Marketing Association (FMA), a registered student organization, provides networking, leadership, and professional development opportunities that make a real impact on students’ careers.”

Through her transfer to WMU Haworth, Kellogg was supported by advising staff to make her goals become obtainable realities.

“I worked with advisors from both KVCC and WMU to navigate the transfer process, and WMU’s support was exceptional. I was awarded the Community College Honors Scholarship, which made pursuing my goals more financially feasible and has been a strong motivator in my academic and professional journey.”

Transferring schools can be an intimidating journey, but Kellogg found a community that not only welcomed her but encouraged her to grow as a student and a professional.

“Being involved with FMA has truly made me feel at home at WMU Haworth. The community is incredibly welcoming and inclusive, creating an environment where everyone feels supported. Food marketing professor, Dr. Russell Zwanka, has also been instrumental in helping me find my place in the industry, making me even more excited to pursue the FMK major.”

Kellogg’s passion for food marketing has led her to some once-in-a-lifetime experiences that have shaped her as a professional. Last summer, she participated in the Thailand study abroad program. She says, “This trip broadened my understanding of global business strategies and sustainability practices while also providing me with many critical insights that will serve me well in my future career.” 

As Kellogg prepares to graduate in spring 2025, she is looking forward to attending the Food Marketing Industry Tour, where food marketing students travel and explore food companies in the Midwest.

To prospective business students, Kellogg says, “Step out of your comfort zone! Join a student organization and find your community. I found my people in FMA, and it’s been a rewarding experience that’s helped me grow personally and professionally. These groups are filled with people who genuinely want to see you succeed, so dive in and get involved!”

To learn more about food marketing, visit WMU FMK online.

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.