«I come from Belgrade, Serbia. I am 24 years old, and I am a food technology engineer.»
Speaking is Anđela Matković, who is attending the Master in Innovation in Food Science and Technology – Michele Ferrero at Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore in Cremona. «I obtained my bachelor's and master's degrees at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Belgrade. For my bachelor's thesis, I wrote a paper titled The Effect of Whey Protein Concentrates on the Properties of Goat Yoghurt, with the aim of discovering how whey concentrate affects yoghurt’s textural properties. A very important part of this project was developing a marketing strategy for this product. For my master's thesis, I took a more theoretical approach and wrote a paper titled The Application of Traceability Systems in the Milk Industry. I had the opportunity to follow the entire production line on the dairy farm Milk House, analyze production quality, and handle faulty products that had been returned from supermarkets, identifying and correcting any mistakes.»
What was the main reason you chose the Master Ferrero Program?
«First of all, I have great respect and love for Italy as a country: its architecture, fashion, the way you respect history and resources, and the perfect food – all of which I have had the opportunity to see and experience by traveling here several times. Next, I consider your country to be perfect for mastering knowledge in the field of food technology and food in general, due to the approach Italians have towards their passion and love for food and the creation of the ideal balance between taste and quality, combined with the preservation of tradition on one hand and the use of innovative methods and technologies on the other. All of this together results in the creation of artwork-like products, which can be considered a universal language we all speak and understand. The first company that comes to mind that speaks this universal language and connects people around the world through it is Ferrero. Moreover, Università Cattolica is one of the most prestigious universities in the world. Its academic reputation and renown attract the very best, cultivating a stimulating environment where I can advance my skills.»
As you know, the approach involves teamwork, multitasking, and meeting tight deadlines. What do you think about these aspects? Which ones do you believe will be valuable for your professional career?
«Teamwork, multitasking, and meeting tight deadlines are all disciplines that I personally find very useful and important. Teamwork is not just crucial at university or in one's career but in life in general. In my opinion, as a team, we can achieve more, grow more, and learn more than as individuals. It helps us see different perspectives, aspects, and points of view, and also teaches us to adapt and adjust our dynamics to others. Working in a group also teaches us to be both leaders and followers at the same time. Meeting tight deadlines pushes your limits and takes you out of your comfort zone, which is when, in my opinion, the best ideas are born. That’s why I personally love doing things at the last minute, though, of course, not always. Multitasking is a skill that helps save time and enables us to achieve goals or meet deadlines more efficiently.»
The Master Program includes a close connection between university studies and company experience. What is your opinion on this?
«The unique opportunity that the Master Ferrero provides, by creating a link between university studies—which give a strong foundation in theoretical matters—and practical application in one of the most well-known and respected companies such as Ferrero, is invaluable. This kind of company experience will not only be beneficial for my future career but will also create some of the most unique and beautiful memories.»
Besides your studies, is there any other significant experience that has helped shape your professional path and future expectations?
«Apart from my studies, which shaped my love for this field and helped me choose my professional path, an experience that sealed my decision was one of my summer vacation trips to Tuscany, Italy. I had the chance to visit an old family winery and try one of the most exquisite wines, presented by a man with such passion and love for his wine, his job, and his family business that, in that moment, I said to myself, I want to create food with such love and passion that it can connect people all around the world. That’s when I knew that choosing the Master Ferrero was the right decision.»
Is there an agrifood topic, perhaps among those you are studying, that you find particularly interesting, and why?
«Sustainability is one of the agrifood topics that I find very interesting because it is not widely discussed or popular in my country. I would like to raise awareness and be someone who can make a change in my country and in the world. I want to use my knowledge and tools for a better tomorrow because, to me, sustainability is about us and our lives, but also about the nature that we take so much from without giving back. It’s about our children, our grandchildren, and the world we will leave for them.»
What do you think your professional opportunities will be after completing the Master’s Program?
«I think that the Master Ferrero will open many doors and professional opportunities due to the structure of the program and the chance to step out of our comfort zone through the business case and master's thesis. It helps us improve and gain deeper knowledge not just in our field of study but also in related areas, such as marketing. This will help us understand the complex dynamics and functioning of a company like Ferrero.»
What is your opinion of Cremona and the Santa Monica campus?
«I would describe Cremona as a little hidden gem of Italy. Such a small city with beautiful architecture and history—every corner has a hidden story, and every day spent here is like opening a new chapter and learning something fascinating, from the magnificent story of the Stradivari violins to the festival of torrone, the history of the Torrazzo di Cremona, and much more. It is truly a wonderful experience to live here.
Santa Monica Campus, like Cremona, has a beautiful historical background. The stunning exterior and interior are equipped with the latest technology, tools, and machines for laboratory work. But beneath all that, unique old frescoes tell a story, making every day on this campus feel like a day in an art museum. It is the perfect blend of history and innovation.»