Ready to talk dietetic internships!? Let’s first be clear that dietetic internships are more the same than they are different. There’s the minimum 1200 hour requirement, the standard rotations in clinical, food service, and community, and usually some coursework or project requirement throughout. All interns must meet the same competencies, no matter the program.
The “flavor” comes with the rotation sites, the breakdown of hours in each common area, elective options, concentrations, and other fun variables. You’ll start to notice the similarities and differences as you browse program websites.
So, when it comes to figuring out your perfect dietetic internship, you want first to be informed of your options. Even if you know you have to stay in a particular state, I still think that understanding the unique parts of your state’s programs, when compared with those across the country, will help you in the long run.
When you write your personal statement, you’ll want to add why you like the program. It will be easier to know why this program is different from others, and you’ll avoid saying something silly like how you love that there are various rotations (because ALL programs have that…). Seriously, the more research, the better.
So to start, the goal is to create your potential DI list of about 5-10 programs and then start reaching out to directors and interns from the program to narrow it down. Many people ask how many to apply to, and my magic number is 4. More on that in a future member update…
Here are some things to get this DI research PARTY started:
NEW! APPLICANT GUIDE TO SUPERVISED PRACTICE
They recently updated this, so make sure you get the most current version. I keep seeing new programs getting added each year…so amazing!!
If you have a low GPA, look for programs that have lower requirements. Look specifically at the average GPA of current interns. That is more telling of your chances there. They may have a 2.75 GPA requirement, but if the interns they take have a 3.5 average, then SEE YA!
PS. Note that there are ISPPs on this list. You are only eligible for ISPPs if you have already applied and have not received a match.
Party on!
Jenny
