All Access Dietetics Founder and Chicago Bulls sports dietitian Jenny Westerkamp is constantly asked, “How do I become a sports dietitian?” Here are a few of her top tips for future dietitians!
Jenny Westerkamp, RD, CSSD, is the founder of All Access Dietetics and Chicago Bulls, Nutritionist. Jenny started All Access Internships in 2008 with Katie Proctor, MBA, RD. They developed the idea to provide as much info as possible in a way that was easy for other people interested in dietetics to use. They completed the Dietetic Internship full time and worked for All Access Internships in their spare time. After about two years, Katie then moved on to be a coach, and Jenny managed All Access Internships. In 2019, Jenny changed the name to All Access Dietetics to incorporate all stages of the dietetics journey, including excelling in your dietetics program, getting a dietetic internship, passing the RD exam, getting hired, and starting your own business.
Jenny got exposure to sports nutrition the summer of her senior year of college by interning with Chicago Blackhawks dietitian Julie Burns, MS, RD, CCN. She emailed her with the subject “I want your life,” and she sold her skills to Julie. Jenny has also worked for the Chicago Cubs and now works with the Chicago Bulls.
Get Experience Early
Having sports nutrition experience as a student will help to boost your resume. This recent experience will help lead to new opportunities quickly so that you can be closer to your dream job! Reach out to your college dietitian or local universities’ sports dietitians and ask about involvement opportunities. See if you can gain experience from local sports nutrition programs and get that hands-on experience right away!
If your college does not have a sports dietitian, look up local CSSDs in the area and reach out to them to see if they have any opportunities for you to become involved. Here is a list of CDs in each state that you can reach out to.
CPSA is also a great organization to join as a student. You’ll learn so much from the listserve, and they have student immersion programs you can apply for to get your foot in the door. Join here.
Network and Reach Out to Local Sports Dietitians
Send an email to dietitians who you would love to work with and show them everything that you have to offer for them. Make it a win-win situation! Give dietitians insight on each of your skills – sports-related, nutrition-related, or otherwise. Mention if you are a great writer or great with creating social media content, creating handouts, or doing research. Show them that you can help make their lives easier and give them a hand while learning more about sports nutrition and the field.
Be BOLD!
Go after your dream job! Try to make connections with a sports dietitian who you want to be. Create relationships and keep up with them throughout the year. Send them your resume and a brief explanation of whom you are and what you do. Show them your skills, your passions, and how you can help them and see if they have any opportunities for you to get involved.
PS. Landing your dream job is possible with our career resources; make sure to check them out!
