KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Aidan Paciorek came to Western Michigan University as an undecided business major looking to investigate all the Haworth College of Business has to offer.
“I had no idea what I wanted to do. Luckily, I had an older sister who had been at Western as a food marketing major. Initially, I didn’t want to feel like I was copying what she had done by majoring in the same area, but she convinced me to go to a Food Marketing Association (FMA) student organization meeting, and I never looked back. I instantly felt at home and loved everything to do with the major including all the professors; it felt like I had a community,” says Paciorek of Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Paciorek knew that the innovation and opportunity available in the food industry was the perfect fit for the professional future he wanted. He has participated in many experiences that have built his capacity as a food marketing professional. In the summer of 2023, he interned with SpartanNash where he was assigned a large project to revamp their catering program. All SpartanNash-owned stores would carry the program, so it was a large undertaking. Paciorek updated everything from recipes to pricing, working cross-functionally with multiple departments, as well as his manager who was a research and development chef. After 12 rewarding weeks of work, Paciorek’s presentation of the project was selected as one of the top 15 intern projects out of over 100 at SpartanNash.
In addition, Paciorek has entered the professional sphere through industry events. He has attended conferences for the National Association of Convenience Stores in Atlanta and the Private Label Manufacturing Association in Chicago. He has also had a great opportunity right here in Kalamazoo to attend The FMC, hosted by WMU’s own food marketing program.
“All these opportunities have provided me with the pleasure to mingle with professionals in the industry and get a deeper understanding of the inner workings of the business world,” Paciorek says. “Some of my best memories have come from these travel opportunities, and I would definitely say they have been a high point in my undergraduate career.”
He adds connecting with peers and professors has been a significant part of his experience as a student.
“Being part of the Food Marketing Association has given me a sense of belonging. From the moment I walked into the first meeting, I instantly felt like I was in the right place for my growth and development. I have made most of my college friends through the organization. I joined the FMA executive board my sophomore year in order to give back and make others feel as included as I have. FMA provides a welcoming and lighthearted atmosphere where we can explore our common interest in the food industry and connect socially.”
In terms of faculty support, one professor stands out for Paciorek.
“Dr. Russell Zwanka has been a mentor to me for everything related to my degree. I have never had a teacher who has been so available. From teaching many of my classes, to taking me to conferences around the U.S., to always being in his office whenever I stop by and need help on anything, he is there for me. I am definitely a changed person from when I first got to college, and Dr. Z has helped me gain the confidence and knowledge to grow in every facet of my life.”
As a junior, Paciorek doesn’t know where he will land after graduation, but says he feels 100% ready and excited for the opportunities that lie ahead.
In fact, being 100% ready is the hallmark of the WMU food marketing program. According to the latest WMU Career Outcomes Report:
- 100% of food marketing graduates are employed or continuing their education quickly after earning their degree.
- 100% of recent food marketing graduates participated in experiential learning while earning their degree.
- 100% of recent food marketing graduates felt their education and experiences as a student at WMU prepared them for their profession.
Learn more about a future in food by visiting the food marketing program webpage.
For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.