Sophie Mok

Events and Hospitality Professional
Master of Gastronomy

She wanted to explore the intricacies of how we eat, says Sophie Mok who came to AUT as an international student from Singapore.

“Everyone talks about what’s good to eat or which restaurant to visit but I wanted to explore the reasons behind our daily conversations of food; understanding how our culture, systems and marketing play a role in our food choices.”

Deciding where to study was easy for her.

“Gastronomy is a programme that not many universities offer in this region of the world, and I liked that AUT’s Master of Gastronomy is based in Auckland; a culturally diverse city with therefore a culturally diverse food scene.

“I enjoyed the student-driven approach in class. The field trips to businesses and organisations relevant to gastronomy concepts were a great practical application of the theory we learned. I also found the student services on campus to be useful as an international student unfamiliar with the local education system.”

Planning the next steps
For her Master of Gastronomy research, Sophie explored the contemporary significance of the Michelin Guide.

“My research explored the Michelin Guide and the ways prestige, hierarchy and taste shape contemporary food culture. Focusing on the Guide’s Southeast Asia expansion, I was interested in how ideas of value and recognition are constructed within the culinary world, and how these frameworks influence perceptions of cuisines, dining cultures and gastronomic identities across different cultural contexts.”

Throughout her studies she also already took steps to prepare herself for life after graduation.

“When I was at AUT, I also completed a Beyond AUT Award and volunteered at the Pacific Food Lab – Aotearoa. Since graduating I'm now back working in the hospitality industry for a local coffee roaster in Auckland."

Advice for other students
Sophie, who graduated from AUT in 2025, has some great advice for other students.

“My advice is to really understand your topic and enjoy your learning journey. University is a time where there is a lot of uncertainty and stress, but perseverance will help you excel. Build your network to be holistic, include not only your classmates, but also teachers and industry professionals.”

She wouldn’t hesitate to recommend postgraduate study in gastronomy to others.

“The gastronomy programme is for anyone who wants to understand themselves, their culture, and the world. What better way to do this than through food?”