The GRE company recommends that each test taker spends at least three months preparing for the exam, so here are study resources to help you do your best!
The GRE, or Graduate Record Examination, is a standardized test all potential grad school students must take as a part of their application process. We’ve compiled our favorite resources to help you score your best!
The test maker made this software, giving you the best overview and helping you get a good feel for how questions are asked in a simple format. It goes over each section of the test and comes with two practice tests. Even better? It’s free! Bonus: PowerPrep Plus is available for $39.95 and includes extra resources.
Kaplan offers four different options of test prep: in-person, live online, private tutoring, or self-paced. They provide a free consultation to see which option is best for you and personalize your study plan. It is an investment, but it’s worth it if this is what you are looking for.
Manhattan is a great source that provides a free practice test and even has in-depth explanations for each question’s answer. The practice tests mirror the actual GRE and track your progress, so you know what you need to focus on.
Other Tips
Need help with a particular topic? Head over to Khan Academy, where you’ll find instructional and in-depth videos on almost any subject.
No time to make hundreds of vocabulary flashcards? Scour Quizlet to find some GRE vocabulary flashcards already made. Just press print, and voila.
Don’t be shy to ask for extra help if you’ve forgotten about a specific topic (looking at you, geometry). Finding a tutor could make all the difference.
Are you still enrolled in school? Some universities offer free or reduced-fee GRE resources. Head over to your student services building to find out more.
P.S. Are you a dietetic intern preparing for the R.D. Exam? Pass the Exam Tutoring can teach you how to study smarter, not harder, to increase your chances of passing the exam!
Before becoming a Registered Dietitian, you have to complete many prerequisite courses. Check out our list of standard classes to decide where to start!
If you have decided to go back to school to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, the odds are that you have a few prerequisites to take. As a career-changer, I understand the overwhelming feeling of having so many classes to take but not being quite sure where to start.
Likewise, you will find that most dietetic programs require similar prerequisite courses. When you decide on a specific program you want to attend, make your list of precisely what school requires.
Courses I had to take before starting my dietetics program:
Chemistry 1 (with lab)
Biology 1 (with lab)
Anatomy and Physiology
Intro to Nutrition
Medical Terminology
Intro to Statistics
Intro to Psychology
Courses I took during my Didactic Program in Dietetics:
Organic Chemistry
General Microbiology
Intro to Biochemistry
Research Writing
From my experience, I completed all of these courses in other online programs through universities that my school approved. This allowed me to have a very flexible schedule to work part-time, and I could take the classes from anywhere.
Completing these courses was very convenient, but I will say that taking classes online still had many challenges. In many cases, I felt as though I was teaching myself all of the material. There was always an instructor, and some of the courses had PowerPoints and lectures, but it wasn’t the same as sitting in an actual classroom or having a conversation with classmates or the instructor about the topic. All of the courses require a lot of reading, many hours, and excellent organization. It’s not impossible to complete all of these courses online, but if I could redo my experience, I would probably choose to take these courses in the classroom setting. For those looking to catch up on their prerequisite courses, many local community colleges offer science-based courses over the winter and summer, typically less expensive.
Some of the online programs I took courses through:
Wondering which courses to start with? I recommend starting with Chemistry 1 and Biology 1. These are very general classes that are necessary for completing several of the other prerequisites.
Hopefully, this gives you a starting point if you are going back to school to be a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist!
P.S. Just starting your career in nutrition and dietetics? Schedule your free call with Jenny to discuss your background, address any concerns, and decide on the next steps for your dietitian journey!
Applying to a dietetic internship program requires time and direction. We’ve broken down this step so you can land the internship of your dreams!
The semester is in full swing, and that means it’s crunch time for dietetic internship applications! If you are hoping to apply for an internship this spring, the deadline for applications is February 15.
Make a spreadsheet of which programs sound interesting to you. This will allow you to compare program requirements side-by-side in one location. Items to include in this spreadsheet are:
School
Location
# of Applicants
# of Applicants Accepted
Min GPA Required
Avg. GPA of Current Students
Length of Program
Full-time or Part-time
Concentration/Specialty
Rotations
Cost
GRE?
Advanced Degree?
Other Program Requirements?
Interview Required?
Visit the DI programs’ open houses online or in-person and view their webinars to make sure you know everything about the program.
Set up an appointment with your academic advisor or DPD director to discuss the application process and programs you are interested in.
Write the application due/important dates on your calendar.
Have all additional application requirements prepared before the opening date of the application.
Preceptors (if completing a distance dietetic internship)
Letters of Recommendation
List of Transcripts Needed
Credit Hours Completed
Personal Statement
Resume
Volunteer Experience / Extracurricular Activities
Awards and Achievements
Register with D&D Digital Computer Matching Program
Some days, free time is best spent alone with Netflix and homemade snacks, but other days, it’s best spent with RD2BE friends outside of the classroom.
On weekdays, you can find most dietetics students in-class lectures, laboratory experiments, and studying. But, on rare occasions, they have free time, too. While free time doesn’t come often and doesn’t stay long, it is much enjoyed. On those rare occasions, getting together with your RD2BE friends is a must.
While getting together with all of your RD2BE friends, you probably want to leave a few of your nutrition courses behind. But if you’re still looking for some hints of nutrition, here are some great things to do.
1) Go fruit or vegetable picking
This is a great fall or spring activity to do with friends. It helps you get outside and get your body moving, as well as appreciate the foods you know and love. This is an excellent natural world application of nutrition and dietetics, and your friends will be all over it. Plus, it’ll be a great Instagram opportunity, and who doesn’t love that?! Make sure to hashtag your experience with #RD2BE.
2) Have fun in the kitchen
In case you haven’t noticed yet, dietetics students can be a bit competitive. While the academic and career pressures can be intense, they can also fuel a good fire. Another fun activity to do with nutrition friends is host a cooking or baking competition! Imagine this as your food science lab to the extreme. Choose a theme or category — Chinese food, desserts, three-ingredient recipes, or unconventional ways to use chocolate. No matter how outrageous your rules become, your friends will love hanging out and trying something new. Plus, the winner will be stoked about unlimited bragging rights.
3) Volunteer together
While dietetics students are encouraged to volunteer in food industry settings, it can often be a little intimidating and challenging. But when you pair with RD2BE friends, the experience becomes more than just volunteering. It becomes fun, too! So get a group of friends together and pick a day to volunteer at your local food bank or soup kitchen. Not sure where to begin? Find a volunteering opportunity near you here. You can split up and conquer — with so many options to volunteer, there is undoubtedly a job for everyone. And you’ll be sure to feel great after your experience.
4) Start a Vlog
With the influx of social media, RD2BE friends love to show their expertise online. This can be an excellent opportunity to share your knowledge and passion, as well as have some laughs with pals. Another great activity to do with your RD2BE friends is to make a video blog! It’s a blast to get ready and dressed up and then film something incredible and unique. You’ll have lots of laughs and make a few mistakes during your Hollywood moment, but it will be something you and your friends will be able to look back at for years to come. Who knows – you may even become an internet sensation!
5) Netflix and potluck
There’s nothing like a good movie marathon, and a movie marathon with RD2BE’s is even better. Gather a list of your friends’ favorites and load your Netflix account. Then, make sure everyone brings a dish of their choice, and prepare to be “wowed.” Even better – don’t let anyone tell each other what they’re getting. Maybe your friends’ choices will surprise you. Snuggle up together and enjoy the very rare moment that you are free of work to do!
There are a ton of activities that RD2BE friends can do together to further their passion and love for dietetics. While some activities are more intensive than others, they are all excellent options for gathering a group of peers and letting loose. Free time is a beautiful thing, so live it up, RD2BEs!
PS Are you applying to the dietetic internship program of your dreams and want personalized guidance? Get Matched Coaching can help you gain confidence and clarity to get one step closer to being an RD!
We’ve compiled nine motivating, inspiring, and fun videos from future dietitians across the country so you can learn, laugh, and stay on track to become an R.D.!
This past fall, we held the most epic America’s Next Top Dietitian contest! Here are the top 10 finalists and their inspiration-filled videos. Trust me; these are WELL worth the watch. And ICYMI, Rebecca Yellin, was our winner, and we featured her story here!
Take the time to investigate your options and think about what you want to get out of your dietetic internship. Follow these tips to help you decide.
What do you want out of an internship? This is a big question that can help you find your best path to becoming a Registered Dietitian. In this post, I will go through some ways to help you make that decision.
What do YOU want out of your dietetic internship? We all know by now that there is a great possibility we might not get matched with our first choice, but do you want to sit back and wonder what if? I have heard of students who decided not to apply somewhere because they thought it was too tough to get in, even though it may have been their dream internship.
Keep in mind that this is a time in your life where you can afford to be a little selfish. I realize that many people are not in a situation where they can move around the country, but if you are, embrace it! Be sure that you are choosing internships that are right for you based on your needs and wants, not based on convenience or the desires of others. If your top choice happens to be across the street or happens to be the same one that your best friend is ranking first, then that’s great! If not, listen to your gut– it’s usually right.
Many factors differentiate each internship program from the other. Consider what you can realistically afford to do and choose from programs that match your interests and experiences. I was willing to look across the country for internships.
I knew I wanted a general emphasis, was attracted to teaching hospitals, did not want a graduate degree yet, and wanted the option to do an elective rotation in Chicago (my hometown). Massachusetts General Hospital offered all of that to me, and that is where I got matched. When you apply to programs that match what you are interested in, your genuine enthusiasm for the program will shine through to the selection committee and reflect well on your application. The match works two ways—both you and the program should fit well with each other. Proving you are the perfect fit is what the application is for! Let’s dive deeper into defining what you want in an internship.
Deciding Factors
Location
Cost
Emphasis
Grad School
Electives
Affiliation
Rotation Sites
Final Thoughts
Have an open mind, and don’t be limited by the internship location, unless you desire to live in a particular area. Also, keep that open mind as you go through your internship; you could start with a passion for pediatrics and end with a passion for geriatrics!
Visit the internship program if it is logistically and financially possible. Meet the internship director; let the director put a face with your name! Also, observe the surrounding location of the internship and what that city has to offer. If you don’t like the site, it will make the internship that much harder. Contact previous interns and get their feedback about their experience beyond the workday. Past dietetic interns are more likely to tell you about how they de-stressed from the internship than directors. And again, have an open mind when applying and as you go through your internship program.
Make it Happen
Develop your list of deciding factors and define what you want out of an internship.
Keep these deciding factors in mind as your narrow down your list of worthy programs.
Start going through options early on! The earlier you start, the better off you will be.
Create a top-10 list, and narrow it down to your final 4-5 choices at least two months before the deadline.
Staying physically, mentally, and spiritually healthy when becoming a Registered Dietitian is difficult. Lisa Carrigg, MS, RD shares her advice to succeed!
Break Body Movement Time into Bite Size Pieces
Between moving to a new city, starting graduate school and trying to keep a part time job, I struggled to adjust from my previous rigorous work out routine into something that still fulfilled my need to move and work while not resulting in stretching myself too thin. As someone who also strongly dislikes sitting, I got creative and readjusted my view of what working out and fitness looked like.
When you know you are going to have a day of what I call extreme sitting, set yourself up so you can stand or stretch in the back of the classroom. I loved the “Daily” apps you can get for you smart phone because I could do 5, 8 or 10 minutes of shuffled moves for my arms or legs etc. right when I woke up or when I needed a break from studying. I also loved doing online barre3 classes and fitness blender videos with friends. Walk and talk meetings are a favorite of mine too. Redefine what getting moving looks like so it’s satisfying to you and fits your routine. Not everyone likes the gym and not everyone enjoys yoga. It’s all good.
Learn to Say No Thank You
With so many different and often equally wonderful opportunities in front of you to grow professionally and personally, it’s easy to slip into having a calendar with every minute, hour, day and weekend scheduled. Fairly quickly, this exciting packed schedule becomes stressful. Growing yourself professionally and seeking new opportunities and contacts is a part of your journey, but so is learning how to say no thank you. You do not have to do absolutely everything that comes your way and you do not have to feel bad for saying no to something. Even if you are saying no to something extra because you just need a moment of time just for you during which you have nothing you are suppose to be doing. Be thoughtful about your intentions behind choosing what to say yes to and that will help guide you in when to say no. How will this opportunity or experience help you grow? Why do I want to do this?
Take Time to Feed Yourself Well and in Good Company
I’m studying nutrition you say, I love food you say, I’m going to be an RDN you say. Of course I say, but you still need to nourish yourself so you can do all those awesome things. You are still human and probably a very busy one. All I am saying is to take time every now and then to share a meal with good company over good conversation. Conversation that is about the stuff that makes up life. It doesn’t need to be fancy food or in a fancy place, it should just be done with love. Nourishing others while they nourish you helps build everyone up (plus there might be leftovers!). Some of the best times I have had during the busiest seasons of my life are over lovingly made food accompanied by warm hugs, laughter and smiles. Feed your face and your soul.
It’s Okay to Cry Sometimes
When we are struggling, sometimes it’s easier to put on a good face, especially around friends or family who are on very different journeys (seemingly more successful or easy). Your journey is special and it’s not fair to compare it to anyone else’s, because it will never look or be like anyone else’s and that is something to cherish. It’s hard for those who love you to love on you more when you need it, however, if you don’t let them in. It’s okay to cry. In fact, it can be very therapeutic. We grow when we work through challenges. Finding a nurturing community to be a part of such as a church, a sports group, dance studio or perhaps even your school can help provide you additional emotional support. Who can you lean on when you need to? Do you tell yourself it’s okay to feel how you are feeling?
Practice Kindness and Thankfulness
Show kindness towards others as often as you can but especially towards yourself. Sometimes we expect so much of ourselves we get in the rut of only seeing what we think we did wrong. Stop yourself. Take time to re-set the thoughts you are feeding yourself and others about who you truly are. When you are feeling down take a few minutes to make a list of all the things you are thankful for or a list of all of the positive and unique things about who you are. Thank others often with hand written thank you notes or kind words. If you think something nice you should share it out loud. What can you be thankful for right now? What is one thing about you that you absolutely love (physical, emotional, skill wise, etc) ?
About the Author: Lisa Carrigg is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with her Masters in Nutrition. She provides 1-on-1 virtual nutrition & wellness coaching at HealthyGroceryGirl.com & has an integrative, whole foods, plant based approach. She believes in meeting individuals where they are at and providing knowledge and guidance to empower them to meet their personal goals. Lisa is also a contributing expert to the Healthy Grocery Girl Membership & Community. To learn more & connect with Lisa visit HealthyGroceryGirl.com
Healthy Grocery Girl® is a wellness and video production company helping busy people and families enjoy real food and natural living. Healthy Grocery Girl keeps it simple and fun with weekly online videos & is the #1 Family Friendly Dietitian Channel on YouTube. Healthy Grocery Girl also provides an online wellness membership with meal plans, nutrition programs, video courses & shopping guides as well as video production services for brands looking to tell their story through digital content.
Spending time with yourself is a key to success in your DICAS journey. These tips can help you land the dietetic internship of your dreams!
When you schedule a date with someone you are interested in, you typically don’t cancel. You pick a meeting location that is comfortable, you put away your phone and minimize other distractions because, hey- you’re on a date. You want to spend some quality time with someone, right? Well, when was the last time you truly spent time like that with yourself?
Spending some serious solo time as you begin to embark on all the craziness and moving parts that is the DICAS process could be your key to a smoother, more successful journey, and the sooner you start, the better. A lot of what is being asked of you in this process is accomplished from you knowing yourself well. Now I’m not saying you don’t know yourself per say, but you really need to know what you want and don’t want career-wise and in your personal life and be able to express that in a sincere and concise way (personal statement, resume, interviews…oh yeah, all of them). Grades of course count, extracurricular activities, job experience – all of those good things. What can set you up for greater success comes from spending time getting to know yourself truthfully as you are right now and making plans for what you need. I could not be more thankful for fellow students and staff in my program at Bastyr whom invested in helping me on my journey and I hope to pass on some of what I consider the most helpful tips I picked up along the way to you.
So turn off your phones, pick a time and a place where you are comfortable and won’t be interrupted, get yourself a beverage of choice and settle in for some quality date time. I would recommend the following four self-date activities.
1. Create a Self Care Plan
DICAS is like a new acquaintance you are desperate to impress and with whom you hope above all else every interaction goes smoothly with. Something, whether big or small, is likely to go not quite as planned during this process though and already having a solid self-care plan in place will help you navigate these bumpy patches. While you’re busy pouring so much of yourself out into other things, it is key to be sure you are also pouring back into the amazing and gifted YOU.
To create your self-care plan to keep you sane and healthy, spend time thinking about the things that nourish you. What really lifts your spirits, makes you feel refreshed, relaxed, good about yourself, etc. How can you work these into your schedule? Is it a bubble bath? Hitting the dance floor? Cooking dinner with a good friend? Self-care time can look like anything as long as it nourishes and lifts you up. Make a list of at least ten things. Practicing self-care is taking time to value yourself and make sure you are getting what you need.
2. Practice STAR Statements
One of the things I worked on during the DICAS prep classes my advisor Dr. Harris led, which although I definitely tried to avoid doing, are what’s called a STAR. You should do these before you embark on revamping your resume or crafting your personal statement or essays. They will also help you feel more prepared later on for potential interviews. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Results. There are various resources online when you Google STAR statements that describe in detail how to craft them. It’s a specific exercise that helps you work on describing your unique skills and abilities succinctly and with specific examples or mini stories, so to say. It can be a little bit of a painful process, but trust me, it is well worth it.
3. Identify and Make Time for a Mentor
We all need people in our corner. The kind of people you can be completely honest and vulnerable with and whom you know will be honest but loving back to you. Who are these people going to be for you? Maybe it’s a counselor, a friend, a professor or a family member. Just know that those who haven’t been through and aren’t going through DICAS don’t completely understand what your experience is like. That’s okay, because sometimes you need to come up for a breath of fresh air and have a conversation that doesn’t include DICAS. Seriously, make it a point to have extended conversation that doesn’t somehow circle back to DICAS. Spend time thinking of at least two people you feel you can be vulnerable with and who you feel help remind you to be true to yourself and follow your heart as you work to do your best in all parts of your life. When can you plan a date with them?
4. Practice Shutting Down your Desire to Compare
You may be going through DICAS with a group of other people. If I haven’t hinted at this enough let me say it directly, this is YOUR unique journey. While commiserating is a common thing to gravitate towards in a group experience or during a challenging process, do your best to limit it. Practice shutting down self-comparison commentary both internally and externally which is easy to fall prey to in a group setting, even a supportive one.
You are different, your past and your future, from anyone else and this process is about YOU. Feed yourself true and honest, but positive things, about yourself as well as others. You have your own gifts and talents, focus on what you have and what makes you unique, and practice finding joy in celebrating those things in others. (Read more advice on this topic here.)
About the Author: Lisa Carrigg is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with her Masters in Nutrition. She provides 1-on-1 virtual nutrition & wellness coaching at HealthyGroceryGirl.com & has an integrative, whole foods, plant based approach. She believes in meeting individuals where they are at and providing knowledge and guidance to empower them to meet their personal goals. Lisa is also a contributing expert to the Healthy Grocery Girl Membership & Community. To learn more & connect with Lisa visit HealthyGroceryGirl.com
Healthy Grocery Girl® is a wellness and video production company helping busy people and families enjoy real food and natural living. Healthy Grocery Girl keeps it simple and fun with weekly online videos & is the #1 Family Friendly Dietitian Channel on YouTube. Healthy Grocery Girl also provides an online wellness membership with meal plans, nutrition programs, video courses & shopping guides as well as video production services for brands looking to tell their story through digital content.
Studying for exams as a nutrition major can be difficult. These study strategies can help you succeed in becoming a Registered Dietitian.
P.N. and EN equations, Krebs cycle enzymes and intermediates, the steps in the Nutrition Care Process- there’s a lot of information that a future dietitian must know. Future RD’s must get good grades in classes and excel in the internship and then pass the R.D. exam. Gone are the days that you have only your textbook and pen and paper to study. Now there are so many online tools that are designed to help you get better grades. Here are five strategies that will help you be more focused and better prepared for your exams.
1. Use Flashcards
You can even save yourself the money you typically spend on 3X5 cards to make flashcards using Study Stack. You can search for flashcards that other students have already made, create your flashcards, and then practice and play games with your online flashcards. Flashcards are a great way to study for any exam.
2. Avoid Distractions
How many times have you clicked on Facebook when you should be studying for that next biochemistry exam? Use ways to help monitor your distractions, like StayFocusd. StayFocusd is an extension for Google Chrome that allows you to configure how much time you spend on specific pages. Once your allotted time has been used, the site will be inaccessible for the rest of the day. With nearly 5,000 reviews, this support tool has helped a lot of people stay focused.
3. Create Study Groups
If you live close to your classmates, form a regular study group with study goals set at the beginning of each session. If you would like to connect and study with students virtually, you can use StudyRoom. StudyRoom allows you to communicate with your classmates by setting up a dashboard and sharing materials or asking questions. You need your school email address, and then you click into specific classes.
4. Plan studying into your Calendar
Cramming for a test lowers your ability to retain information. Create a balanced study schedule to help your brain keep what you learn. GoConqr allows you to create a study schedule and manage and track tasks. It also allows you to develop other study tools to gain insight into which topics you are mastering and which ones you need to study more.
5. Take Breaks to Eat and Move During your Study Sessions
When you study, you are using energy, so take time to refuel. And take time to stretch and move your body. If you need a reminder, Stand Up! is a flexible work break timer that allows you to set timers within your schedule.
Finding the right study tools and techniques may be a trial and error process but find what works for you. Have you found an online study tool that has helped you master your nutrition classes?
P.S. The Study Smarter Method has helped hundreds of RD’s pass the exam. Learn more about Pass The Exam Prep.
I narrowed down some of my favorite websites that provide some of the most up-to-date, scientific, evidence-based information. Check it out!
It’s that time of year again. Your professors are starting in with the research paper requests. Our advice? Pick a topic, research the case, ensure that your research is EVIDENCED-BASED, and don’t forget the citations page. My biggest worry when I was assigned a research paper was finding a topic where there was enough evidence-based research so that there was some truth to what I was saying. After many semesters of stress and panic, I’ve found these resources provide information that any nutrition student would geek out about.
If you’re not a student member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, you should be! As a member, you get the Food & Nutrition magazine sent to you physically or virtually every month. You also gain access to their database of research articles from various journals. All evidenced-based information, of course! An Academy membership is a win-win.
This website is specific to the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Throughout these pages, you will be able to obtain all the research articles and abstracts from the journal’s archives. There is always that one article you read three months ago that you wish you had now for that specific research topic.
The National Institute of Health has some great information on its website. If you click on the PubMed link, it will bring you to a database that allows you to search by whatever topics you choose. *Hint- if you are googling anything nutrition/science related, add NIH in the search bar, and it should bring you to evidence-based articles and information immediately so that you don’t have to weed through the information that we know isn’t true.
If you have any websites that you use for evidenced-based research information that I didn’t mention and you would like to share, please share the wealth in the comments section! Also, don’t forget that your school’s library usually has a lot of access to journal articles that you may have to pay for if you don’t log in as a student. The library is always overseen, but it has some great tricks on getting the information you want for free!
P.S. Subscribe to our Newsletter for more evidence-based articles sent right to your email!
Staying organized as a nutrition and dietetics student isn’t easy. Below are my top tips to help you stay on track to become a Registered Dietitian.
Could you write it down?
It’s tempting to ditch your planner for an app on your phone, but studies have shown that writing it down helps you remember it more. Invest in a cute planner (see ideas here) and never forget an assignment again.
Keep a schedule.
As much as you want to sleep in until noon on the weekends when you’ve been waking up super early during the week, trying to compensate for your sleep can make you more tired! You’ll be more productive when your schedule isn’t all over the place.
Get rid of distractions.
Whether it is a PC or Mac, many computers have programs that you can download that let you limit the amount of time spent on distracting websites (we’re talking about you, Facebook, and Instagram). Nix the temptation and get that essay done first!
Find balance.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed with everything you have to do this semester – from homework to volunteering or even working – it can get a little daunting to balance it all. Set aside 30 minutes to an hour each day to focus on yourself and do something for you, whether a yoga class or a quick Netflix binge. Your mind and body will thank you!
Triage.
Triage, taking care of the most important thing first, will help big tasks seem more doable. Get that group project out of the way, so you don’t have to worry about it. Can’t figure out where to start? Try making a to-do list so you can check off your assignments as you go!
What are your best tips to stay organized? Sound off in the comments.
P.S. ARE YOU IN YET? Join the Get Matched Course to gain the confidence and clarity you need to get a dietetic internship!
Studying nutrition means sometimes you’re learning the Krebs cycle, and others you’re baking cookies. Here are our top myths about being a dietetics major.
Almost all DPD coursework includes anatomy and physiology, chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology…shall I go on? We know the ins and outs of metabolic pathways and can balance a chemical equation like nobody’s business, but we also know how to make a killer acai bowl and prevent foodborne illness. After all, we are food and nutrition experts- in every area of the field!
Everyone follows the gluten-free-dairy-free-paleo-low-FODMAP diet.
We know the importance of a well-balanced diet more than anyone, and that one diet doesn’t fit all. Cheat days are often plenty, but we strive to practice what we preach and eat for health. You can find many of us experimenting with new recipes, too.
The only students who get internships have straight A’s
There are so many other components to your application than your grades. Yes, they are essential, but so are your volunteer experiences, work experiences, personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
Ochem is impossible without blood, sweat, or tears
It’s no lie that organic chemistry requires lots of hard work. Utilizing study groups, office hours, and lots of study time can make doing well…no blood needed.
We balance studying, homework, volunteering, and working like pros
Nope, that’s not a myth 😉
What are some of your favorite myths about being a dietetics major? Sound off in the comments!
P.S. ARE YOU IN YET? Sign up for our newsletter, and you’ll receive monthly webinar invitations, free resources, exclusive experience opportunities, and more!
These tweets so accurately and hilariously describe some of the situations we find ourselves in as dietetics students. Oh, and who could’ve guessed, they tend to center around food. It’s all about balance, right?
Think of your online portfolio as an extension of your DICAS application. This tool could get you closer to landing the dietetic internship of your dreams.
If you haven’t created an online portfolio yet, now’s the time! Only some program applications require one, but you can still add the URL to your resume even if they don’t.
Opportunity to show directors examples of your best work
Remember to include projects or papers that you are passionate about to reference them in later interviews. Did you complete a unique project in your program? Feature it so internship programs can see it!
It makes you stand out from the competition.
No two applications are alike, similar to online portfolios. Your portfolio is distinctly yours and can be another way to stand out from the crowd and make a lasting impression.
Adds a visual element to your application
A dietetic internship director may remember you during your interview from your online portfolio’s unique logo or layout. This also serves as a way for internship programs to learn about you and your sense of style or flare. Make sure to stay true to yourself when creating your online presence!
It gives directors a better sense of who you are as a person
Directors will gain a better understanding of your personality through the details of your online portfolio. They will see your skills, such as attention to detail and creativity, which show promise as a dietetic intern.
It can be used again when you’re hunting for a job
Make sure to save your online portfolio and continue adding to it as a dietetic intern. Nothing will make a potential employer more pleased than an in-depth and highly professional online portfolio. As you grow through your nutrition career, remember to let your online portfolio grow with you.
Blogger, WordPress, VisualCV, and Wix are all great sites for housing your portfolio.
Are you not convinced? Check out this article from The New York Times for more!
P.S. Once your e-portfolio is done, join our Get Matched Coaching for a portfolio review from one of our coaches to make sure it is visually fantastic, organized, and free of grammar mistakes!
Distance dietetic internships can be a great option in becoming a Registered Dietitian. We’ve included the information you should know about this route.
Part I: The Application Process
When it comes to dietetic internships, distance internships are a great option. Some of the benefits include flexible scheduling, staying close to home, and the ability to select specific sites and preceptors you want to work with. However, with this comes unique challenges, so we put together a guide of things to be aware of when going the distance route.
Remember that every distance program is structured differently, so it is essential to thoroughly read their websites and contact the program directors if you have any questions. You can find distance dietetic internships programs here.
We always say that the earlier you can start preparing, the better, especially for distance internships! Why? Well, in addition to writing your resume and personal statement and filling out DICAS, you may also need to find preceptors for potential programs and have them fill out and return preceptor applications to you BEFORE February 15th (or September 25th) deadline.
First, research the programs you are interested in to learn more about their requirements. Here are some questions to ask when evaluating distance internship programs:
What rotations need to be completed?
How many hours need to be completed for each course?
How many hours a week are you required to work?
How many preceptors do you need to find?
Does the program help you find preceptors?
Are there specific requirements for the preceptors (e.g., at least three have to be R.D.s)?
How many preceptors need to be lined up before the deadline (all, some, or none)?
What kinds of facilities are acceptable?
Are there specific requirements for the facilities (e.g., at least one facility must be accredited by the Joint Commission)?
How will you communicate with the director throughout the internship?
How are you required to submit assignments and track your hours throughout the training?
Do you have to take online classes?
Once you know where you’d like to apply, the next step is finding preceptors if your programs ask for you to have them lined up before the application deadline. Make sure you understand the requirements for each program you’re applying to. This is crucial as you will need to supply potential preceptors with this information, along with an application to fill out from each program if they agree to work with you.
If you already have connections in the field, you may not have to look far to find preceptors. Some programs will even provide you with preceptors! Reach out to your contacts first and ask if anyone is willing to be your preceptor or if they can put you in touch with other R.D.s. You can also reach out to your local or state dietetic association to see if they can connect you with someone. Then, once you’ve exhausted your network, it’s time to make a list and start cold-calling R.D.s and facilities!
The truth is that some people may say no, and others may not respond at all, but don’t let this discourage you- it’s just how the process goes! There is plenty of R.D’S out there who know the importance of the internship, understand that someone did it for them when they were interns, and are willing to pay it forward to help you reach your dreams.
Here’s something to be aware of: some facilities, especially in large cities, already have contracts in place with local internship programs. This means that they may not be willing to take on additional interns, or in some cases, they may not even be allowed to. If this happens repeatedly, you may need to expand your search radius and be willing to travel a further distance.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to sell yourself to the R.D. and be clear about how YOU can benefit THEM! Do they have projects they need to be finished? Notes written? Handouts created? While they will be taking time out of their day to work with you, you can put your skills to good use and do work that benefits the organization while also fulfilling your requirements. At the very least, be sure to send them a copy of your resume. If your personal statement is ready, it doesn’t hurt to send this along so they can better understand your skills, accomplishments, and career goals.
Once you’ve been accepted, you may need to notify all of your preceptors to tell them the good news. If tentative rotation dates were already set, be sure to confirm them again, as things may have changed since February. An official contract may need to be signed at this time between them and the school.
Most programs hold an in-person orientation for anywhere from a few days to a week or more. This is an excellent opportunity to meet your director, as well as your fellow interns whom you’ll want to stay in touch with throughout the internship. In addition, Facebook groups and email chains are great ways to stay connected as a group so you can share your experiences, ask questions, figure out the assignments together, and motivate each other to keep going.
Distance programs require a high level of self-management, organization, and communication skills to ensure that you’re meeting the requirements of your program and getting the most out of your experiences.
It would help if you began each rotation knowing the number of practice hours you need at that facility, the tasks and assignments to be accomplished, and the goals you’d like to meet while there. Sometimes your preceptors may look to you for guidance because you have a better grasp of the program requirements than they do, especially if they’re managing interns from multiple programs.
Be prepared for the possibility of change at any time. Preceptors who agreed to work with you may get new jobs, facilities might back out for one reason or another, and your rotation dates and hours may need to be adjusted as you go. In cases like these, the best thing you can do is be flexible and go with the flow. Internship directors are well-versed in dealing with these situations, and they will provide you with the best steps to resolve any problems that arise.
The last piece to keep in mind is that, in some cases, you may be the only intern in a facility during a rotation, which means you won’t be sharing your day-to-day experiences with other interns. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but you may sometimes wish someone else who “gets it” is there with you. However, one of the perks of striking out on your own is that you get the sole attention of your preceptors and the chance to develop stronger connections with them. Joining your local dietetic association is a great way to meet nearby interns with whom you can connect in person, and you may even see some of them during your rotations!
P.S. If you’re looking for help with the more intense distance dietetic internship applications, Get Matched Coaching includes individual support to land the internship of your dreams!
Special thanks to Natalie Kocks, who shared her personal ISPP journey with us in 2017.
My name is Natalie Kocks, and I am a recent graduate of Benedictine University, Lisle, IL. I am currently enrolled as a dietetic intern at Purdue University’s ISPP. The journey towards attaining a dietetic internship is most certainly not an easy one. At Benedictine, I ran Cross Country and Indoor and Outdoor Track and Field. I was also involved in the SAND (Student Association of Nutrition and Dietetics) club. I volunteered every summer at Parkview Regional Medical Center in the Nutrition and Dietetics department. I also gained experience as an intern, working with an R.D. who owns her fitness and nutrition company. I also interned with Foodie on Campus (an online magazine) and helped market the magazine via social media.
In my senior year of college, I began the DICAS process and unfortunately did not receive a match. So I moved home and began working as a dietary aide at a nursing home and as a recipe developer, chef, and barista at a local natural market. In November, I reapplied to DICAS, and again, the words read “No Match.” I allowed myself to be upset for one day, and then I decided that this was what I wanted, and I refused to give up. I applied for a nutritionist position at a local WIC office and was offered the job. I have been working at WIC for the last six months and love it here! I learned about the Purdue ISPP from a Purdue ISPP intern doing her community rotation here at my WIC location! I decided to apply, and before I knew it, I was being interviewed and accepted my intern spot!
“ISPP is an amazing opportunity for good DICAS applicants who slipped through the cracks to gain the internship they deserve.”
ISPP is a fantastic opportunity for suitable DICAS applicants who slipped through the cracks to gain the internship they deserve. ISPP allows for flexibility; you can focus on areas of dietetics that you’re most interested in, and you can complete your entire training at home!
My advice to future applicants is never to give up. Not receiving a match to internships was one of the most devastating experiences I have had. Had it not been for my supportive family and friends and my deep-rooted passion for the field, I do not think I would have kept applying and putting myself out there. The best thing you can do is start gaining nutrition experience early on in your college career and continue to stay involved while working just as hard in the classroom. Please get to know your professors because you’ll need them down the road for positive letters of recommendation when you apply to internships.
Thanks for sharing, Natalie!
P.S. Our Get Matched Coaches can help you land the DI of your dreams. Let us help you have a happy match day!
Staying focused during the summer can be challenging as a dietetic student. Use these tips to help you enter the upcoming semester feeling prepared and refreshed.
OK, the dog days of summer are almost over (trust us, we’re sad too!). For me, summer is a time to explore, have fun with friends, and…prepare for the upcoming school year. Wait. What? Using your summer can help you go from average to a stand-out student. Here are my tips for staying on your A-GAME during those summer months.
Set up informational interviews with RDs who inspire you.
Maybe it’s just me, but I love meeting new people (especially in a professional atmosphere) so that I can hear their stories. Everyone has a little gem or piece of wisdom they are willing to share; you just have to ask!
Do I set these interviews up expecting to earn a job upon completion of my Dietetic Internship? No way! These informal interviews allow you to learn about the wide variety of careers in the nutrition world and help you expand your network of people in the nutrition world.
So pick up the phone and set a coffee date with an RD that is inspiring to you.
Volunteer in your community.
Volunteering is another excellent way to meet other people in the nutrition world, gain experience, and possibly tap into a passion you didn’t even know existed.
Yep, I said it…relaxing will help you stay on your A-GAME. During the school year, our brains are preoccupied with studying, working part-time jobs, getting involved in the school’s dietetic association, building our resumes, and the list goes on. According to current research, it’s SO important to give our brains mental downtime, and the summer is the perfect time to do it. Rest is when our brain can absorb and make sense of all of the information it has gathered over time.
So this is your permission to take a nap, meditate, take a yoga class, or go for a casual walk. It’s good for you!
Have fun!
After all, it is summer. Use this as your chance to get creative and do something that you LOVE to do. Train for a race, bake a cake, host a dinner party, hang out with friends, go on vacation, whatever it is that brings you pure joy…do it!
Let’s hear from you:
What is one way you are having fun this summer?
How do YOU stay on your A-GAME during the summer?
PS Are you in yet? Sign up for our newsletter here to receive monthly webinar invitations, free resources, exclusive experience opportunities, and so much more!
To stay competitive as a nutrition student you have to get good grades, be involved in extracurriculars, and volunteer like your life depends on it.
The semester is coming to an end and summer is right around the corner. As dietetic majors, you know that summer means that there is more time for… volunteering!
At times this is a very stressful and time provoking task but this is why you have us to help you through and find and create your best possible experiences that DI directors will gasp at (good gasps!) and put you right at the top of their lists.
To make this task a little more tolerable, what better way to read about volunteer experiences is there than a recipe. With just a few ingredients, a dash of determination, and some simple directions, you will be on your way to cookin’ up great volunteer experiences!
Not sure where to begin? First, check out local volunteering opportunities near you here. Next, follow the directions below.
Directions
1. Ask – Put yourself out there. There are very few people that will turn down someone that wants to work for FREE. What excites you? What do you want to learn more about? Whether it is for 2 weeks, 2 months, or 2 years, experience is experience, and anything helps, all you have to do is ASK! If you are uncomfortable at first approaching someone to see if you could volunteer with them, there is nothing wrong with an email.
Sample Email:
To Whom It May Concern,
My name is __________. I’m a nutrition major at _____________ and I’m extremely interested in your __________________. I would love to learn more about ________, and was wondering if I could volunteer for you. I appreciate your time and patience with this request and I look forward to hearing back from you in the near future.
Thanks,
____________
2.Ask again – This is where persistence comes in. If you don’t hear from anyone in a week, try a follow-up email. Still no response? Stop in in-person! People are just as busy as you are and may not check their emails often. They may think that your persistence is an asset to their company and want to know more about you.
3.Ask for more – Yay, you are volunteering for something that you are passionate about! Now that you’ve learned the ropes of their company/business, ask for more projects. If you have something in mind that you think will be beneficial, ask your boss for permission. Lots of people are open to fresh, innovative, and creative ideas, that will help them make more of a positive influence in society. Go for it!
Now, enjoy the fruits of your labor. At times, this may be hard work, but it’s worth it in the end. Stay positive, always keep a smile on your face, and remember your end goal.
P.S. Are you applying to your dietetic internship? Join Get Matched Coaching for personalized advice that will help you gain confidence that will bring you one step closer to becoming a dietitian!
Since 2008, we've made it easier to become a dietitian by coaching thousands of future dietitians to get accepted to dietetics programs, pass the RD exam, and become confident dietitians.
