Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable spring 2025 graduates.
Dietetics graduate Chloe Bernier is nothing short of an exceptional student.
She excels academically, serves as president of the Student Nutrition Council, is a delegate in the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority and, as though that wasn’t enough, still finds time to work three jobs to support herself through college, all the while supporting her physical and mental health.
“Chloe’s journey is one of resilience, adaptability and determination. Moving to the United States from France at just 14 years old, she navigated life in multiple states — South Carolina, Florida and Arizona — before independently supporting herself financially through her undergraduate studies,” Teaching Professor Maureen McCoy said.
“Despite these challenges, she has excelled academically, taken on leadership roles and remained deeply engaged in service-oriented activities.”
In fact, her community involvement and academic excellence earned her the accolade of Outstanding Undergraduate Student for the College of Health Solutions.
In her role as SNC president, Bernier spearheaded educational initiatives and facilitated volunteer events across the valley, including engaging with Feed My Starving Children, St. Vincent de Paul and St. Mary’s Food Bank. She also coordinated partnerships with the Sun Devil Fitness nutrition educators and Pitchfork Pantry to offer cooking demos in the multicultural space on the Downtown Phoenix campus.
Her community work doesn’t stop there, as she also served as a nutrition and wellness coordinator for ASU, all while balancing her rigorous coursework.
“Chloe approaches every task with initiative, problem-solving skills and a strong work ethic, making her a reliable and valued member of the ASU community. Her ability to adapt to challenges and find creative solutions highlights her resourcefulness and leadership potential,” said Sandra Mayol-Kreiser, assistant dean and clinical professor in the College of Health Solutions.
Beyond her community involvement, Bernier thrived in her dietetics coursework, leading her to earn multiple scholarships and, ultimately, graduate at just 20 years of age. Her deep understanding of nutrition allowed her to become a teaching assistant for two courses, where she served as a mentor and discussion facilitator.
According to Mayol-Kreiser, Bernier embodies the title of Outstanding Undergraduate Student:
“Whether in the classroom, research or student leadership roles, she consistently exhibits professionalism, critical thinking and a commitment to excellence.”
Question: What was your “aha” moment when you realized you wanted to study the field you majored in?
Answer: I think my interest in dietetics was more of a slow burn in terms of knowing exactly what I wanted to do. I always wanted to be in the medical field but did not think nursing was for me, nor becoming a doctor. I definitely saw a lot of social media rise on nutritional issues in our country and the spread of misinformation. I then decided that food sciences might be best for me but when applying to ASU, I saw dietetics and decided to research what that major was about. I didn’t know what it all entailed until I started studying my major and genuinely fell in love with it more and more.
Q: Why did you choose ASU?
A: Since I was little, I always loved Arizona and remember telling my father, who lived here for five years, that I would go to ASU one day. I think I was so set on being here that I only applied to ASU and (Florida State University) as a backup plan only. ASU also has an amazing dietetics program and a strong community.
Q: What’s something you learned while at ASU — in the classroom or otherwise — that surprised you or changed your perspective?
A: I think the main things I have learned are related to our effect on the world around us and how impactful we can be as just one individual. Whether it is in our community or the world, our actions impact others so much, and one little thing could go a long way.
Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU?
A: I think Maureen McCoy is the person I look up to the most, especially as a woman. I think she has taught me a lot in how I want to interact with the world and kindness in general. I will say that all of my professors are incredible women, including Sandra Mayol-Kreiser, Traci Grgich and Kathy Dixon.
Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?
A: Please prioritize your own well-being regardless of what that looks like for you. You can’t pour from your cup if it is not filled; this is something people in health care definitely struggle with. Also remember that only yourself can get you places. Work hard and achieve your goals regardless of what that may take. That being said, get involved as soon as possible if you haven’t already. One conversation could be a butterfly effect for your future, and you don’t know how much your connections will help you in the long run.
Q: What are your plans after graduation?
A: I will be taking a year or two off in order to focus on working and on my mental health! I will need to get an MS in order to become a (registered dietitian), therefore I want to make sure I am ready mentally, physically, financially and emotionally!
Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?
A: This amount of money would get us closer to solving world hunger and food insecurity in the areas most affected by it. What I have been focusing on here at ASU is food insecurity in college students, as it is way more prominent than we believe. I do think that education is extremely expensive, and not everyone can afford food or knows how to cook it or what to eat even!
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