Passion for Family and Food Science Drives Leonard

Buffalo native Jailyn Leonard earned her food science degree at Alabama A&M and is now completing her Master of Science. She says she decided to remain on The Hill to set an example for her daughter.

“I wanted to show her that you can keep pursuing your goals while creating a better future for your family,” says Leonard. “My passion for food science only grew, and I was eager to continue in that field. Additionally, I loved the campus atmosphere and wasn’t quite ready to leave the supportive environment that had helped me grow. AAMU felt like the perfect place to continue my academic journey.”

As Alabama A&M University prepares for its 149^th Commencement Ceremony, graduates like Leonard are ready to bring to life the AAMU mantra - start here, go anywhere. She has accepted a position as a Junior Food Technologist at Ferrero in Chicago.

“I want to create or contribute to the development of products that will ultimately reach the shelves, helping others and showing students that their dreams are attainable,” says Leonard. “My ultimate career goal is to give back to young food science students and inspire any young Black individual who aspires to achieve something but isn't sure they can. I hope to be a source of inspiration and support for those who are navigating their own paths.”

What will you miss most about your time on The Hill?

“I will miss the culture on campus. It feels like a close-knit family. I’ve loved walking across campus and seeing faculty and staff who have walked the same paths, faced similar challenges, yet continue to guide us with their wisdom and help us navigate the journey ahead.”

What about your classmates and friends?

“I will miss them for being the people I leaned on most. I will miss our long conversations,
late-night study sessions, and the knowing glances we shared when we knew the day ahead would be tough. The strong connections we’ve built during our time at AAMU have made it clear that they are only a phone call away.”

And the faculty?

“I will miss how the faculty embraces students like their own. While they always maintain professionalism, they create a sense of family and support beyond the classroom or their desk. Being far from my own family, they made me feel safe and comfortable enough to share my challenges, knowing I could trust them to provide guidance and resources to help me navigate any situation.”

During her time at AAMU, Leonard says she learned the importance of being professional, and that you need to take charge of your own networking.

“No matter how tempting it might be to let your guard down, you are your brand. I’ve heard that repeatedly throughout my time here. This practice is essential and something I will continue to uphold. Build a circle that doesn’t just tell you what you want to hear, but what you need to hear. Stay engaged, join organizations, and continue to develop yourself professionally.”