Graduation wasn’t so much an ending for Paige Consolo as it was a change of scenery. 

After studying food science and technology with a minor in biology, Consolo moved to Wisconsin this summer to begin Nestlé’s Manufacturing Leadership Development Program. The year-long rotational program is giving her a firsthand look at food manufacturing, from operations and continuous improvement to leadership, as she prepares for a future supervisory role. 

It’s a long way from Columbus, but Consolo says Ohio State prepared her for the transition. Four years of research taught her how to approach problems methodically and adapt when experiments didn’t go as planned. As a general chemistry teaching assistant, she learned how to explain complex ideas, mentor students and think on her feet. 

She carried another lesson with her, too: Say yes to what makes you curious. 

At Ohio State, that meant studying abroad, learning a language she might never use professionally and taking classes in photography and art history.  

“Ohio State taught me that some of the most meaningful growth happens when you step away from the expected path,” says Paige, originally from Alpharetta, Georgia. I want to continue saying yes to opportunities that challenge me, energize me and allow me to grow.” 

Commencement weekend allowed her to pause before the next chapter. She attended a dinner with university leaders, celebrated with her Food Science and Technology classmates and faculty, and finally walked across the commencement stage as her family cheered from the audience. 

Then came the steel-toed boots and safety glasses. 

Working full time on a manufacturing floor has been a major adjustment. Her days are more structured, and she’s had to become intentional about managing her time and protecting her evenings. She misses the effortless 10,000 steps she got walking campus. 

Her weekends are for exploring. She’s become close with fellow rotational associates, and Chicago has quickly become a favorite destination — Riverwalk strolls, Chinatown, Michigan Avenue and, naturally, plenty of pizza. 

Most importantly, Consolo is building a life in Wisconsin. After four years of long distance, she and her boyfriend now live together. She stays connected to family through regular calls and planned visits while getting involved in her new community. 

Her goals for this first year are simple: learn all she can, build meaningful relationships and embrace where she is.