Being a dietetics student or intern can be lonely if you are having a difficult time finding your tribe. Read this blog for 4 helpful tips!
Being a dietetics student or dietetic intern is an exciting time. There is so much to learn and discover on your personal journey. It can also be a lonely time if you are having difficult time finding your tribe. This means looking for likeminded people that can identify with your wins, challenges, and dreams. You are looking for a tribe you can laugh and cry with. You want to find those that believe in your dreams. This task doesn’t have to be as difficult as you think. Plus, these connections can help you further down the line with resume construction, preceptor recommendations, and networking that can lead you to the role of your dreams. Want to learn how to find your tribe? Keep reading.
Here are 4 tips that will help you locate your dietetics “village”:
#1- Join your school’s student dietetic association.
If your school has a nutrition or dietetics program, it will likely have a student dietetics group, club, or association. Here, you will find likeminded students that will understand your journey and have similar dreams as you. You can also join an association connected to your specific field of interest. Check out this list of dietetic practice groups (that also have student members!) to learn more. Relationships that start in college can span your collegiate career and beyond. You can even be connected to alumni of your student dietetic association that may have a similar interest and are farther along in their career than you. With your current classmates, these same people you spend hours with studying the Krebs Cycle may be some of the same people that may be at your life celebrations, grand openings of your business and having coffee dates in the future. They say your network determines your net worth. So, build that network!
#2- Get a mentor.
As a Dietetic Intern, I have benefitted from having several mentors. Mentors can offer tips on elective courses to take that can enrich your college experience and they can offer advice and give input on the challenges you encounter and how to navigate them. They can share what has worked for them and missteps that they made so that you can avoid them. Mentors are a golden ticket to knowledge as you decide what road you want to take in your career. I have been matched with an amazing mentor through Diversify Dietetics, as well as individuals I’ve met at conferences and even networking events. Attending your first nutrition and dietetics conference is an important and exciting step in becoming a Registered Dietitian. Mentors are for every part of your career. All Access Dietetics has an Alumni group for their clients, where you can apply to join a Mastermind group, which is essentially a group of mentors! Learn more about the alumni group here.
#3- Look at online communities.
Even if you happen to be physically alone, technology ensures you are never alone! This is the digital age; connections can be made as you sit at your laptop and in your most comfy pajamas. There are many communities just waiting for you to introduce yourself and be a part of Facebook groups like Registered Dietitians and Future RD’s Community, RD & RD2BE Community, The Unconventional RD Community” and many more. Advice is shared in these groups from resume building to places to consider getting volunteer experience that will assist with your DICAS application.
#4- Create your own mastermind group.
If you aren’t in the All Access Dietetics Alumni group, you can create your very own mastermind group. Take the reins and assemble a cohort of classmates, fellow dietetic interns and agree to meet up in-person or virtually once month to discuss plans and ideas. You can encourage each other while taking steps to meet your own goals with a supportive group of your own creation. This is an excellent place to brain dump and strategize. Who knows? Your mastermind group could create its own product or business. The sky is the limit.
P.P.S. Special thank you to Danielle Smiley, distance dietetic intern at Komplete Business Dietetic Internship for contributing to this blog! You can reach her on her website or on IG!
Life as a dietetic intern can be challenging. However, you can still live your best life while being excellent in your rotations.
If you’re starting a dietetic internship, your first thought might be, “I will not have time for a single thing!”. You might think that the dietetic internship is going to consume every second of your life or think, “there is no way I can be an awesome dietetic intern AND still live my best life.”
As a dietetic intern, let me be the first to tell you that I can still do the things I enjoy. I go out on Saturday nights with my friends, sleep in on Sundays if I choose to, and have time for my workouts. I did not expect to live my best life while being a dietetic intern. Living my best life does not mean neglecting my work or being anything less than an awesome dietetic intern. I am just allowing myself to live my best life throughout this process to start each week happy and refreshed.
I want to share the 5 tips that will help you be an awesome dietetic intern while still living your best life:
1. Choose Progress Over Perfection
Our preceptors have been in our shoes; they do not expect us to have all the answers. As a dietetic intern, you are there to make mistakes and learn from them. To live your best life, stop aiming for perfection and focus more on the little successes you make each day. Get things done to the best of your ability, and do not be afraid to ask questions. The less pressure you apply on yourself, the happier you will be in your rotations, and the more work you will get done during the week instead of the weekends.
2. Set a Daily Top 3
Every day write down three minor “to-do’s” and commit to them! If you are stressing over an assignment, add that to your to-do list. Set aside an hour or two during or after your rotation time to get it done. It is such a satisfying feeling when you can check something off your list. Before you know it, you check off curriculum assignments left and right, and the extra time you have will be for yourself.
3. Prioritize Your Health to Be an Awesome Dietetic Intern
On the first day of orientation, my director said, “I want you to focus on your health, your family, and the internship in that order.” If we don’t do something for our mental or physical health each day, we are more likely to feel stressed or overwhelmed. Add exercise, mediation, or journaling to your nonnegotiable to-do list. An awesome dietetic intern takes care of themselves first and brings that positive energy with them to their rotations.
If you are working part-time, have a family to take care of, or want to spend the time outside of your rotation on yourself, let your preceptor know. First, politely ask your preceptor what days or hours you can sit in a quiet office during the week. Next, use this time to work on your curriculum assignments or study some topics you feel uncomfortable with.
Setting this time during your rotation hours to do curriculum work will give you the time to live your best life in the evenings or on the weekends while still fulfilling your responsibilities as a dietetic intern.
5. Take Advantage of Opportunities Your Preceptor Offers
If your preceptor needs you to join an intern panel or help with an open-house event and you have the hour or two to spare, take the opportunity. Take advantage of opportunities and show your preceptor how awesome and committed you are to helping the dietetic internship succeed.
It would be best not to think the dietetic internship will be 9-12 months of no fun and adventures. It will be. You need to set boundaries with yourself early on and commit to making this process the most fulfilling and exciting part of your dietetics journey.
P.S. If you are worried about your clinical rotation keeping you from living your best life, sign up for these FREE samples of our Real World Clinical Toolkit.
P.P.S. Special thank you to Samantha Maldonado, distance dietetic intern at Komplete Business Dietetic Internship and former Get Matched Coaching client, for contributing to this blog!
A Dietetic Internship Director tells all! We connected with the Program Director at Be Well Solutions Dietetic Internship to answer your questions about distance dietetic internships, how to be a competitive applicant, and much more.
What are the top three things applicants can do (besides good grades and getting experience) to stand out?
In terms of DICAS, we review all aspects of the application to obtain the whole picture of each applicant. Strong applicants tend to have certain qualities:
– Passion. It is evident when applicants demonstrate their passion for the dietetics field by illustrating compelling stories in their statement.
– Communication skills. Strong written and oral communication skills are essential for success in our program, and we score these qualities in the DICAS application and the interview.
– Be organized. We can tell when applicants have been intentional with all aspects of their application and are thinking about being an intern. We require applicants to obtain their rotations, and the rotation schedule is a straightforward tool we use to assess the applicant’s ability to plan and organize their future internship experience.
In general, applicants may reach out via email (attach a resume!) and attend one of our Virtual Open House events. These avenues allow applicants to get to know our program in more detail and ask any questions they may have.
What are one or two common mistakes you see applicants make?
It is clear when an applicant has not had anyone else review their application. If we see typos or another program name listed in the personal statement, we assume the applicant is not serious about our program. More than you would think, we see sections of the DICAS application left empty such as volunteer or work experience and honors and activities. Still, the applicant will have included these experiences on their resume. If an applicant sends an email inquiry and asks an obvious question on our website, it shows they did not research our program ahead of sending the email. Attention to detail like completing all portions of DICAS, reviewing documents for errors, and intentionally planning an email is essential for success in our program.
What are the benefits of a distance dietetic internship?
There are many benefits to a distance dietetic internship program! The most tangible benefit is that each intern has the opportunity to create their own educational experience by customizing their rotation schedule to suit their strengths and passions. The distance aspect allows for flexibility in a geographic location of rotations that can be scheduled where the intern has family and support available. By working with dietitians local to their community, interns benefit from creating a network of dietetic professionals early in their careers, leading to multiple connections and future job opportunities.
What qualities make a successful distance dietetic intern?
Interns who are most successful in our program are very independent and organized. While our program offers a great support network, we expect our interns to manage their daily schedules with their preceptors and remain on top of our internal curriculum tasks. Interns need to have good communication skills across all mediums. We communicate with our interns often via email, phone calls, and Zoom, expecting interns to communicate effectively. Successful interns are ambitions. It is apparent when interns put forth the effort to produce good work with their preceptor and through our curriculum, and we typically see those interns pass the R.D. exam right away.
Where are the graduates of your program working today?
Everywhere! Based on intern feedback, our program provides graduates with the skills they need to succeed in all practice areas. We have graduates working in corporate wellness, clinical dietetics, school foodservice, community nutrition, private practice, and government programs!
Can you describe what makes your program different from others?
Our program has a concentration in Corporate Wellness and Health Promotion. This is enhanced by the wellness rotation and wellness-related didactic learning components of our curriculum. BWS DI offers support to our interns through Faculty Advisors, who mentor interns throughout their program. The 1:5 ratio allows for a high touchpoint between Faculty Advisors and interns, with frequent communication with interns and preceptors throughout rotations. The Lead Faculty foster a strong sense of community among the interns, encouraging communication and collaboration among each cohort. Interns are placed into small groups that meet monthly for online conference meetings and Journal Clubs, fostering connections within the small groups and Faculty Advisors. Our program provides R.D. exam study material and professional development resources to our interns to help them be successful entry-level dietitians. The Lead Faculty are supportive and dedicated to the success of each intern and strive to maintain academic caliber through innovative curriculum development. As a distance program, interns have flexibility and autonomy with their rotation schedule. The emphasis rotation allows interns to have exposure to a specialty area of dietetics that suits their passions. Overall, our program strives to be innovative, forward-thinking, and supportive to our interns as they embark upon their careers as dietitians!
Is there anything else you want to tell future applicants?
The field of nutrition and dietetics is changing. While distance programs may require work upfront to secure rotations, it is worth the effort because it creates a network of dietitians to help build a future career. Our distance program can provide the opportunity to become a dietitian with experience in the wellness, and that unique characteristic is appealing and sought after in communities nationwide.
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Meet the Director
Katie Bigart, MS, RDN, LD
Katie completed her undergraduate degree in Biology and Psychology at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) in Cleveland, Ohio. She earned a Master’s Degree in Public Health Nutrition and completed her dietetic internship at CWRU.
Katie began her career as a K-12 school nutrition consultant for a private consulting firm, Pisanick Partners, L.L.C. in Cleveland, OH, and then went on to join the corporate wellness company, Be Well Solutions, as an Account Manager and Wellness Dietitian. Katie eventually transitioned her role at Be Well as the Program Director of the Dietetic Internship. Katie loves having the opportunity to work alongside interns, helping them discover their passions and goals within the field of dietetics, as well as creating an innovative curriculum to educate future dietitians! Katie is also a certified Health Coach through the American College of Exercise and embraces the balance of an active and healthy lifestyle, filled with hiking, weightlifting, cooking, and movies. She loves spending quality time with her husband, boy/girl twins, and two dogs.
Implement these five key strategies to build relationships with dietitians in your field of interest as a dietetics student.
As a dietetics student, you are probably aware that there are numerous routes you can take when searching for your dietetics niche. Perhaps you want to be a registered dietitian (RD) in clinical, a sports RD, a community RD, or something else. With what seems like an endless number of paths to take, discovering which area of the field you are interested in can be exciting yet daunting.
Now, your next thought may be: where do I begin? To relieve some stress around this process, below are a few tips to help motivate you to build relationships in your field of interest as a dietetics student and bring you one step closer to becoming the RD you imagine yourself to be!
Connect with your professors
As a student, you have potential connections all around you. When you are in class, several opportunities are waiting for you to make the first move. Making an effort to build relationships with your professors is one of the simplest ways to get your foot in the door.
It is crucial to building relationships with professors who teach classes specific to your area of interest. Chances are, they work in that particular field or may have previous experience in the field to assist you in your journey.
However, do not limit yourself to building relationships exclusively with those professors. Your medical nutrition therapy professor likely knows another RD who works in your field of interest or can provide you with a reference and sound advice to get you started. At the very least, your professor may know what you are interested in and will have your name in the back of their mind should an opportunity come up that could be a fit.
Example
I spent my entire freshman and sophomore years as a dietetics student hiding in the back of every classroom and seeing no reason to talk to my professors. That was until I met one of my new best friends in my junior year, who told me about her current internship and a past nutrition expo she had worked as a volunteer. As a dietetics student, I knew the importance of getting intern/volunteer hours, and I wanted to build those types of relationships. After asking my friend how she found those opportunities, she told me they came through her professors. At that moment, I knew I needed to do the same to get myself the options I saw myself in.
I began speaking with my professors to form a connection, even if it was just small talk. It did not take long before I was given two contacts to reach out to for intern experience. Three weeks later, I had my dream internship as a student. Who knows where I would be now if I decided to reach out to professors earlier. It is never too late to start!
Join an association connected to your field of interest
Once you discover your calling in dietetics, it is time to become a part of organizations and associations related to your field. A simple Google search will help you discover precisely what those are. For example, suppose you are interested in becoming a sports RD. In that case, the CPSDA (Collegiate and Professional Sports Dietitians Association) is a great way to become a part of the sports dietetics community.
Through organizations such as the CPSDA, you can connect with RDs who already work in the field. Typically, there is a list of practicing RDs who you can reach out to. By becoming a member, you gain access to free educational materials, discover intern and job opportunities, and learn more about what working in your field of interest will look like once you become an RD. These tools may give you more to talk about and potentially more questions to ask when reaching out to these dietitians. Being an active member of their association or organization will show how genuinely interested you are in the field.
Example
When I was a dietetics student, I had professors (the ones I built relationships with!) and peers tell me about the CPSDA. Once I discovered it, I was excited to research and connect with the full-time sports RDs in this network. I took the initiative to introduce myself, let them know that I found them on the CPSDA website and that I was an aspiring sports RD. To my surprise, I received responses from almost all of the RDs I reached out to. I was even asked for my resume by a few of them. I often check in with many of these RDs and regularly interact on social media. These relationships formed when you are a student will prove to be the most important in building your future career.
Reach out to other professionals via social media or email
Now that you are a member of the association/organization (wink, wink!), you can take the list of RDs and begin searching through Google or social media to start the conversation. The Get Hired Course has a section dedicated to networking on social media.
Send the RD a tailored direct message on a particular platform or a professional email if their email address is public.
When sending an email to build a relationship with an RD, let them know that you are an aspiring RD interested in their specific field. Express genuine interest in their professional journey to learn how they got to where they are today. Ask if you can have 15-minutes of their time through a scheduled phone call. Do not expect an internship or paid opportunity through relationship building; the possibility of that may come in the future.
After reaching out, keeping in touch with your connections is just as important. Continue to build these relationships by checking in every few months through email or direct message, even sharing their content on social media. Being genuine and consistent goes a long way.
If you cannot join an association or organization, you can still search for RDs through social media and Google and build relationships in the same way. Find commonality by reading their biography and checking out their LinkedIn profile.
Example
Similar to my story about reaching out to sports RDs, I had a friend interested in holistic nutrition. She followed a private practice RD, introduced herself, and told her she loved what she did as an RD. This friend shared that the RD then asked her to send a resume, and she then started virtually interning with her and creating social media content. This virtual internship served as an excellent experience for her dietetic internship application. Again, a genuine connection and a vast opportunity were the results of a simple email.
Volunteer
As dietetics students, we know that volunteering plays a big part in securing a dietetic internship and landing future jobs as an RD. It is also a great way to get your name out there and build relationships in your field of interest. If you’re applying to distance dietetic internships, relationship building is even more critical as starting with who you know is the best first step to preceptor searching. Reach out to multiple RDs at a time, and provide them with the information they need to secure yourself a volunteer opportunity.
While volunteering can be a great experience, it can be a lot to balance if you’re a dietetics student with a full-time job or a family at home. However, it’s important to note that volunteering does not have to be a long or full-time commitment. Taking the initiative to volunteer for a one-day event can be just as powerful and even better if you made a solid first impression and stayed in contact with the RD you worked with. Also, if you already have a full-time schedule during school months, try volunteering over winter or summer break. You do not have to commit hundreds of hours to make a good impression and build a great relationship.
Example
Much of my personal volunteer experience and what I have learned when speaking with peers is that we have built relationships with a specific RD. We have interned for, but these experiences have opened doors to making many other relationships with others. When volunteering at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), I was fortunate to get to know and work with two of UCLA’s other sports RDs. I am still in contact with all three of these RDs and have been able to refer to them for mentorship and positive letters of reference. I am incredibly appreciative of their support.
Be a Go-Giver
For our future careers as dietitians, it is essential to connect with as many dietitians in the field as possible. Creating relationships and offering your time to work with other dietitians gets your name out into your area of interest, shows other dietitians your dedication, and may even be the key to landing your dream job. To be successful in this, you must be willing to put in extra work. Founder Jenny Westerkamp, RD, CSSD, encourages you to be a go-giver and “think about what you can give instead of what you can receive.” She firmly believes that what you give, you will get back in return. It is a constant flow.
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About the author:
Thanks for reading! My name is Brittni Whitesides, and I am a dietetic intern. I am so grateful that I practiced these tips in building relationships as a student at California State University, Los Angeles. Through doing all of these things, I have gained tons of experience in my field of interest (sports nutrition) through volunteer work and interning and have made numerous connections with sports RDs. I have spoken to several RDs who currently are in the position I dream about being in one day, and I am confident that they know who I am, my passion, commitment, and interest in the field. As a current dietetic intern, I plan to continue building relationships while maintaining my already made ones. So, what are you waiting for? Start sending out those direct messages and emails to begin building relationships today!
We’ve found that most students have one TOP choice dietetic internship or RD program, one that they REALLY want to be matched to. Here is a round-up of 3 of blog posts to help you get matched to your #1 choice.
1. “How To Get Dietetics Experience Before Applying To Dietetic Internships”
P.S. 100% of Get Matched Coaching clients landed a spot in a dietetic internship or RD program in 2021! Receive individualized advice every step of the way and feel more confident submitting your application with the support of an expert coach. Click here to learn more.
Look no further and check out these 16 ways to Make Money as a dietetics student! These jobs can fit into your lifestyle and give you dietetics experience.
1. Grow your Instagram and social media
Do you run an Instagram that you’re passionate about expanding but not quite sure how? Or maybe you’ve been thinking about starting a new foodie blog but have no clue where to begin. Learn how to attract your target audience, beat the algorithm, and increase engagement using these tips. Once your Instagram is up and running, your next step is to check out everything you need to know to create a successful online business. Instagram is a great way to Make Money as a dietetics student!
2. Create a blog and learn how to sell on your website
You are looking for a way to make Money that gives you flexibility and room to put your creativity into action? A blog is a great way to share your knowledge and passion with others and great for making new connections. The Unconventional R.D. teaches nutrition professionals ways to earn passive and alternative income that they may not have even known existed. This blog offers tons of tips and resources, from google analytics to connect with brands that fit your M.O. Use your blog to help establish yourself in the field and build your professional network while making Money in your pajamas.
3. Get sponsored posts
Expand your blog, Instagram, or Youtube channel with sponsored posts! Click here for tips on defining your brand, reaching your audience, improving your engagement, and more!
4. Tik Tok
Yes, you read that right. Tik Tok is currently one of the fastest-growing platforms out there, and no, you don’t have to be the next Charlie Dimelio to grow your following. Tik Tok is an excellent outlet for entrepreneurs to increase their engagement and follow quickly. But how do I use Tik Tok? What kind of content should I post? Use this article Tik Tok for Entrepreneurs to guide making videos, increasing your following, and creating content that stands out.
5. Start a Business
If you’re interested in the entrepreneurial side of dietetics, I strongly urge you to get an online business coach like Tony Stephan. Tony Stephan is a successful Registered Dietitian who built his own online nutrition coaching business from the ground up. Check out his blog and read Tony’s article, Starting a Nutrition Business as a Dietetics Student, to learn more! Libby Rothschild is another excellent Registered Dietitian and expert in social media and marketing! Please read about how she went from working in a hospital to running her own company here. But wait, there’s more. The founder of All Access Dietetics, Jenny Westerkamp’s story of how she started her own business in dietetics all while still being a dietetic student is a worthwhile read here. Lastly, if you want to learn about marketing and creating a business or expanding your current one, consider enrolling in The R.D. University.
6. Wellness coaching
If you love nutrition counseling and search for a platform to expand your services, check out the website healthie. This virtual care platform is excellent for managing your practice, communicating with your clients, and building relationships!
7. Do social media for a dietitian
Maybe you follow an R.D.’s blog or Instagram that has always been your inspiration, and you’ve been dying to get involved. Reach out to them and see if they need help with their social media content! Use the tool Canva to help you create new and innovative content! It offers hundreds of free templates to help develop graphics, posters, logos, presentations, and more. You can also check out the article The 6 Best Free Design Tools to Create Social Media Graphics to learn how to make your content stand out and capture your audience’s attention.
8. Uber or Lyft
Love listening to tunes and getting to know people? Driving for Uber or Lyft may be the right fit for you. For all, you need to know about driving with Uber and making Money when and where you want, click here. Want to do the same with Lyft? Click here for more information on getting started.
9. Waiter or waitress
Work part-time as a waiter or waitress to earn some extra money! If your classes or internship aren’t the typical 9-5 hours, waitressing is a convenient way to fill in those gaps or weekends. If you want to stay active, improve your customer service skills, and learn how to work under pressure, consider getting a job at a restaurant.
10. Front desk at a gym
Another job that’s not your usual 9-5 is working at the front desk of a gym or yoga studio. This kind of environment offers flexible hours and early or late shifts outside of normal business hours. Some places may even offer you a discounted or free gym membership. Pop into your local gym or visit their website to apply.
11. VIPKID (teach kids virtual English)
Have a passion for teaching and working with kids? Teach English online with VIPKID. Set your schedule, teach one-on-one lessons, and get to experience the rewarding feeling of educating young minds, all while getting paid.
12. Babysitting
Babysitting is an easy way to earn extra money as a dietetics student. Use indeed, care.com, or your local community Facebook pages to find babysitting jobs in your area!
13. Catering department at a hospital or long-term care facility
Apply to work in a hospital as a patient dining associate in the Food and Nutrition Department. In this setting, you will be on your feet, interacting with patients, helping with their menu selections, and much more. This environment can help you familiarize yourself with working in a hospital setting and allow you to interact with patients and brighten their day! Most positions have weekend or evening events, or you can inquire about working per diem!
If you’re outgoing and are seeking a flexible schedule, look into becoming a brand ambassador! Start with the products you already love and enjoy, and check out their company website for ambassador opportunities. Stop into your local grocery store or reach out to a company to inquire!
16. Use Social Media to Make Money
Looking to grow your social media following, stand out as an expert online, and learn how to develop a profitable online business? Join Rise to the Top, a self-paced virtual business course for dietitians and dietitians-to-be who want to learn how to carve your path in the world of food, nutrition, and recipes to grow a brand and business! Led by Maggie Michalczyk, RDN, and Mary Ellen Phipps, MS, RDN, Rise to the Top takes you through everything from growing your Instagram following, pitching yourself to brands, doing your taxes as an entrepreneur, and so much more! Learn more about the course here! (affiliate link)
PS. Our resources can help you better manage your time and work during your dietetics journey!
You’ve done the hard work- completed a DPD program, a Bachelor’s degree, a 1200 hour dietetic internship, and passed the national registration exam. You are now a registered dietitian! You’re ready to land your first job as an RD, but… where do you even begin? Below are my top tips to help you land the position of your dreams.
Get clear on your goals.
After completing rotations in various areas, you may know what position you would like to work in. Was clinical not your thing? What about food service? Narrow down your niche, and then use LinkedIn, practice groups, Instagram, and even Google to help you create your goals and find inspiration from other RDs.
Network.
Dietetics is a relatively small field, so use your current network to help you succeed. Is your past preceptor connected to a dietitian you admire on LinkedIn? Reach out and ask for an introduction. There’s no harm in trying, and it’s ok to do some creepy searching for the sake of your dream job!
Use social media.
Before you begin job searching, make sure your social media presence is professional and represents you well. Next, join virtual groups dedicated to RD job searching, research potential organizations through their social media pages, and learn more about open positions by studying them online. This will help you learn about the organization and role you are applying for and can help you have a great interview.
Use the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
The Academy has various resources that can help you learn your worth, such as the compensation packet. This packet shares up-to-date knowledge of salaries for different niches in the field. Use the salary calculator to determine the average income for your education, experience, and even location!
Prepare.
Once you land an interview, do your best to be ready. Our Get Hired Coaching will teach you how to restate the question, provide 2-3 points or a STAR theory, and answer with a clear conclusion that ties into the company or role. Extra preparation for an interview can set you apart and help you land your dream job sooner.
While the job application process may be new and overwhelming, using these tips and tricks will lead you down the right path. Do you think you would benefit from extra help in this process? Check out the Get Hired Course to help you showcase your talents, sell yourself to employers, and stand out from the competition.
PS. We have so many great career resources to help you land your dream job!
Determine the best solution to complete dietetic internship applications, so that you feel 100% confident in getting a dietetic internship.
Applying to dietetic internship programs can be overwhelming, stressful, and altogether new. At All Access Dietetics, we’ve designed programs to help you land the dietetic internship of your dream! You’re not in this process alone, and with a little extra help, you can gain the confidence and clarity in yourself to succeed.
The Get Matched Course is like a tool kit, in that it has every tool I’ve learned about how to stand out in the DICAS application.
It teaches you how to take every step of the process seriously, and how to approach each step wisely. Many students find the personal statement the hardest area of the application to navigate, and as we know, it is one of the most important pieces. Our course’s biggest module focuses on the personal statement, and we literally guide you through how to answer each of the standard DICAS questions.
To me, EVERY area of the application is important. Choosing where to apply is absolutely going to affect your chances of getting matched. Other underrated areas of the application, like director communication and references, are equally important, too. The Get Matched Course teaches you how to increase your chances of getting matched by using our strategies in every aspect of the application process.
Get Matched Coaching is going to provide you with support and guidance, so you don’t feel like you are doing this alone.
Our clients say they are less stressed, since they know they are on their journey with an expert coach. Plus, they feel more confident in themselves and their hard work. Our clients know they are representing themselves well and truly selling themselves as future dietitians- and doing it better than their competition. I always say that, if matched head to head against another applicant with a similar GPA and work experience, I would feel confident our client would get ranked higher because of the quality of their application, their director communication, and their interview skills.
The Get Matched Course is a great option if you want to apply the techniques your own way. But, coaching is a great option if you want more personalized advice and support along the way.
You’ve never applied to a dietetic internship before, so it is normal to feel overwhelmed and confused. My clients often ask 100 or more questions regarding the process and their applications, and I am sure you will have 100 or more questions, too. You’ve never been taught how to effectively put together an application for this purpose.
Because of that, my final advice is to use all the resources you can to inform yourself about the process. The more you understand, the better. Go all in on your application process, and start early, too. If you are in school, the best thing you can do is start your application during your summer break. It is night and day to wait and start your application in the fall, when you are then bogged down by classes. And if you wait until winter break, you are way too late!
An ISPP is another route you can take to accomplish your supervised practice and become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. Let’s break it down.
Have you heard of ISPPs?
Have you heard of ISPPs? ISPP stands for Individualized Supervised Practice Pathway. They are an option for those that don’t get matched, and many people don’t fully understand how they work. Completion of an ISPP can still provide you with experience so you can sit for the national exam and become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics shares more about ISPPs here. We’re sharing a few tips on how to prepare for ISPP applications:
1) Research.
Just like traditional DIs, ISPP programs will have their own application requirements. Some ISPPs require a Ph.D!
2) Contact Directors.
Introduce yourself and have questions prepared that are not already answered on the program’s website.
3) Secure preceptors.
ISPP tracks are a similar model to distance dietetic internships. While preceptor searching is a lot of upfront work, the benefit is being able to CHOOSE your own preceptors and create your own schedule. Click HERE to learn five strategies for finding preceptors.
4) Keep an open mind.
Click HERE to read a 2017 success story and how the Purdue ISPP helped Natalie finally become an RD! An ISPP is a great option for you to stay on track and achieve your goal of becoming an RD.
P.S. ARE YOU IN YET? The Get Matched Course is a 17-module e-course to walk you through EVERY step of the application process and increase your chances of landing a dietetic internship.
With a match rate of less than 50%, It is difficult to get a dietetic internship these days. What can you do to stand out among the competition?
You hear about getting a lot of experience and keeping your GPA as high as possible, but what else can you do to land the dietetic internship of your dreams? After coaching hundreds of students individually, I have seen some strategies, both major and minor, that have helped students gain the edge they needed to get into a dietetic internship. Here are my top 5 unconventional tips for getting matched:
1. Make sure your personal statement is not generic.
You don’t want your personal statement to look like ANYONE could write it. Answer each question in a way that only you can. Too often, I see letters that are generic and the answers are not well thought out. It will take a lot of brainstorming to decide how to creatively answer each question, but directors will be able to tell that you put in this extra effort!
2. Every sentence of the personal statement sells you in a convincing way.
Many students have a hard time really “selling” themselves. They feel like they are bragging, and it is uncomfortable. But, guess what? If you don’t tell them how great you are, they will never know! There needs to be concrete examples and evidence to back up your skills and preparation. If you don’t do this, the selection committee will not be totally convinced you would do well in their internship.
3. You have clear goals, and include leadership goals.
Many times I read the goals paragraph of personal statements and they are very general or wishy-washy. Students will say that they are interested in a wide variety of areas and they will use the internship to decide what is best. While this seems like a safe approach, it is better to commit to clear, specific goals then to leave it open-ended or unoriginal. For example, having your short-term goal be to get an internship and a long term goal to become a dietitian will NOT set you apart from the rest. Maybe you don’t know exactly what you want to do, but you want to show the selection committee that you have some idea of the direction your career could go. This really shows how passionate you are for reaching some of these goals in the future and how passionate you are about becoming a dietitian. Bonus points if you share some ways you hope to be a leader in the field–what internship doesn’t want to train future leaders!?
4. Your DICAS is free of any grammar or formatting errors.
Simple mistakes, incomplete sections, and grammatical errors can all leave a bad impression on the person reviewing your materials. With competition so fierce, you don’t want something that is easily avoidable to ruin your hard work of getting good grades and finding awesome experience. Our coaches find an average of 20 mistakes with every DICAS Review coaching service they do. Make sure you get your application materials reviewed by someone. Print out all your materials and review slowly to catch any errors. It helps to not wait until the last minute, too!
5. You explain why you want to go to that specific program.
Don’t use reasons like, “the variety of rotations,” or, “a fantastic teaching hospital,” to describe why you want to go to the program. Rather, choose specific rotations that line up with your own experiences and goals. If you can’t think of 3 good reasons, then consider whether or not that really is the right program for you, or get help from a coach! Of course, if you are limited to certain internships by location or cost, then this may not be as possible to do, but at least explain what unique factors about their program you are most interested in. And yes, you can have slightly different versions of your personal statement for each program you apply to!
Applying to your dietetic internship program can be stressful and overwhelming, but listening to great music can make it easier. Here are our top jams!
It’s that time of year… dietetic internship application time! Cue the major freak out. While it is an exciting and new time as a nutrition student, it can also be easy to get lost in the process. The application process for this highly competitive step in becoming an RD requires positivity and focus. Along with using the Get Matched Course to gain confidence and clarity during the application process, I turn to music.
Music helps me feel good and stay on track, so I’ve created The Ultimate Playlist to help me get through my DICAS application.
A dietetic internship program will help you transform from student to a Registered Dietitian through 1200 hours of supervised practice.
Dietetic internship programs consist of supervised practice, which is required (in addition to didactic coursework) to become a Registered Dietitian. Sadly, dietetic internships are extremely competitive! It is important to understand the basics. Read on, future dietitians!
Use all the resources available to you to fully understand the application process.
Dietetic Internships 101
According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, “To apply to a DI, individuals must complete at least a bachelor’s degree and ACEND-accredited coursework requirements (Didactic Program in Dietetics). Currently all DIs must provide at least 1200 hours of supervised practice. This is usually completed in 8-24 months depending on the availability of a part-time schedule or requirement of graduate credit. Individuals completing the program who are verified by the program director are eligible to write the CDR registration examination for dietitians.”
“Appointments to DIs are awarded on a competitive basis and most use a national computer matching process. Programs not participating in computer matching accept applications only from individuals employed by the sponsoring organization. Prospective applicants must contact program directors for current information, including application deadline dates. More information about the application, tuition and financial aid can be obtained from the program.”
The Scary Truth About DIs
Let’s be realistic about the challenges involved in getting a DI. Some of us may believe that the process is easy and the internship is guaranteed. With the 50% match rate, and the expectation that it will go down this year, it is pretty scary. Looking on the bright side, this dismal match rate should be an eye-opener for students and should motivate them to become competitive and take their future as seriously as they can.
It is clear that there are simply not enough DI spots available to the thousands of applicants that wish to obtain one. While this book does not solve the problem of the shortage of internships, it does provide the information you need to reach your potential.
The DI is the transition between student and professional. Looking at the bright side of an additional year (or more) of training, you are lucky to have this time to evolve without diving head first into the real world. With that being said, the responsibilities of both a student and a professional are given to you. You will have projects and homework assignments on top of clocking in from 9- 5 (for most full-time programs, anyways). Balance will be a running theme throughout the internship—balancing work, assignments, projects, and fun too! Overall, it is an experience that will help you grow both personally and professionally and prepare you for your first career move.
Scared? Nervous? My best advice for surviving life as a dietetics student is summed up in this quote by John Wooden:
“Things turn out best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out.”
No matter what happens on the road to the RD—searching tirelessly for experience, struggling through tough science courses, or stressing out over the application process—having a positive mental attitude every step of the way will be one of the most important keys to your success as a student, intern, AND Registered Dietitian! Are you ready?
Start Early
It’s never too early to start improving your chances of getting matched to a dietetic internship. Not only will the following strategies make you more competitive, they will help you prepare for your future career in dietetics!
Obtain a Solid GPA
Grades are extremely important in your quest to secure a dietetic internship. Many students don’t realize this until it is too late. Programs will list their GPA requirements for overall, DPD, and science on their websites. Visit a few to get an idea of what GPA numbers you should be hitting. Schedule in retaking classes in order to meet these minimums. In general, programs are looking for a 3.0 minimum overall, DPD, and science GPA, but remember that each program can set their own requirements. Also, when it comes to GPA, the higher the better!
4 Tips to Improve your Dietetics Grades
It’s Tuesday and you’ve already taken your fourth exam for the week, have a lab project due in organic chemistry tomorrow, and two presentations on Thursday. I feel you! Nutrition and Dietetics is an intriguing major, but a definitely challenging one. As a recent graduate and future dietitian, here are a few tips that helped me survive the busy undergraduate workload.
1. Organize, Organize, Organize!
Every dietetics major understands the importance of staying organized during the semester. Between meeting lab report deadlines, biochemistry exams, and submitting diagrams of micronutrient metabolism pathways, it is easy to fall behind and feel lost. Keeping a planner and updating it daily is one way to stay on top of deadlines. A simple planner won’t cut it in this major; it will need to be loaded with details, deadlines, and study times.
In my undergraduate experience, I found it helpful to organize my planner around study times. To prevent over-studying (yes, that’s a thing!) and under-studying, I planned to study in 1-hour increments, sectioning off 45-minute studying blocks using the other 15 minutes to give my brain a break. By scheduling study times and staying organized, I felt that I was ahead of assignments and deadlines, which paid off in the long run.
2. Utilize your Tools
We buy the textbook, lab books, and nutrition manuals because they are required of us, but what if we actually utilized them? One of my turning points in undergraduate was when I REALLY started using my materials. Simply reading the chapters prior to class and reviewing questions at the end of chapters almost always led to me acing the exam. I noticed professors pull a lot of review questions from the book or use them to form questions. Reviewing the PowerPoints won’t cut it.
3. Study Well and Study Often
How do you learn the material effectively? Did you know that everyone learns differently? Strategies that work for some, don’t work for others. That’s why it is important to figure out how YOU retain information. This will be important for the registration exam as well. Be sure to check out Pass the Exam Prep, powered by the Study Smarter Method, to help you ace the board exam when your time comes. Science is not a subject that can be memorized, so it’s important to fully comprehend the information. Personally, speaking out loud (sometimes to my dog) always helped me learn the material. If you can walk through the steps of a process, like the Krebs cycle, then you have a strong understanding of the concept. If that wasn’t effective, I would break out the whiteboard. Yes, I was one of those students! Writing can be an effective way to retain information and rock a nutrition exam.
As mentioned earlier, over-studying can happen. I found myself constantly over-studying in courses without even realizing it. The frustrating part is that after 45 minutes, the brain retains less information, which may mean you’re wasting time. If you find yourself stuck on a subject, reach out for help. Getting a second perspective can be useful and make a difference in your grade. I utilized my professors and graduate assistance whenever I felt stuck, and I’m thankful I did. Another useful program is Good Grades Tutoring from All Access Dietetics. Their tutors specialize in nutrition, dietetics, and science classes. These professionals have been in your shoes and know what it takes to help you earn that A, take advantage of it.
4. Review, Review, Review!
Sometimes I got picked on because I would always request to review my exams, even when I made the highest grade. I think we don’t give review sessions the recognition they deserve. The main reason being it’s so important to see what areas you are strong in and those you are weak in and may need extra practice. One perk of being a dietetics major is having nearly all comprehensive finals cue the excitement. Reviewing exams is important because you WILL see the information again on semester finals and possibly the registration exam, so make sure you evaluate your areas of understanding. I know that stinging feeling when you study all month for your macro exam, only to see you did less than average. It can be discouraging! Don’t brush it off. Review the exam, see where you need to improve, invest in a tutor, and better yourself. Your future dietitian self will thank you!
Network within Dietetics
True or False: “Dietetic Associations and Dietetic Practice Groups are for registered dietitians only.” False. Joining your local dietetic association or a dietetic practice group is another very effective avenue for networking with RDs and even other students. It also shows involvement in the profession—what selection committee doesn’t like that?
Volunteer, network, attend meetings or take on small projects. If your state doesn’t have much opportunity for students, ask how you can change that! Dietetic association board members are leaders that you should get to know. Reach out to them immediately. Involvement with this group early on will allow you to create a foundation of experience that you can use to prove you are devoted to the profession. You will inspire other students to follow your lead and before you know it, you have cultivated a passionate and enthused group of students to promote and advance the profession in the right direction! Do you see why this is so important? Hey, it looks AWESOME in your application too. 🙂
How to Build Relationships in your Field of Interest as a Dietetics Student
As a dietetics student, you are probably aware that there are numerous routes you can take when searching for your dietetics niche. Perhaps you want to be a registered dietitian (RD) in clinical, a sports RD, a community RD, or something else. With what seems like an endless number of paths to take, discovering which area of the field you are interested in can be exciting yet daunting.
Now, your next thought may be: where do I begin? To relieve some stress around this process, below are a few tips to help motivate you to build relationships in your field of interest as a dietetics student and bring you one step closer to becoming the RD you imagine yourself to be!
Connect with your Professors
As a student, you have potential connections all around you. When you are in class, there are several opportunities waiting for you to make the first move. Making an effort to build relationships with your professors is one of the simplest ways to get your foot in the door.
It is crucial to building relationships with professors who teach classes specific to your area of interest. Chances are, they work in that particular field or may have previous experience in the field to assist you in your journey.
However, do not limit yourself to building relationships exclusively with those professors. Your medical nutrition therapy professor likely knows another RD who works in your field of interest or can provide you with a reference and good advice to get you started. At the very least, your professor may know what you are interested in and will have your name in the back of their mind should an opportunity come up that could be a fit.
Example:
Personally, I spent my entire freshman and sophomore years as a dietetics student hiding in the back of every classroom and seeing no reason to talk to my professors. That was until I met one of my now best friends in my junior year who was telling me about her current internship and a past nutrition expo she had worked as a volunteer. As a dietetics student, I knew the importance of getting intern/volunteer hours and I wanted to build those types of relationships. After asking my friend how she found those opportunities, she told me they both came through her professors. At that moment, I knew I needed to do the same to get myself the opportunities I saw myself in.
I began speaking with my professors to begin to form a connection, even if it was just small talk. It did not take long before I was given two contacts to reach out to for intern experience. Three weeks later, I had my dream internship as a student. Who knows where I would be now if I decided to reach out to professors earlier. It is never too late to start!
Join an association connected to your field of interest
Once you discover your calling in dietetics, it is time to start becoming a part of organizations and/or associations related to your field. A simple Google search will help you discover precisely what those are. For example, if you are interested in becoming a sports RD, the CPSDA (Collegiate and Professional Sports Dietitians Association) is a great way to become a part of the sports dietetics community.
Through organizations such as the CPSDA, you can connect with RDs who already work in the field. Typically, there is a list of practicing RDs who you can reach out to. By becoming a member, you gain access to free educational materials, discover intern and job opportunities, and learn more about what working in your field of interest will look like once you become an RD. These tools may give you more to talk about and potentially more questions to ask when reaching out to these dietitians. Being an active member of their association or organization will show how genuinely interested you are in the field.
Example:
When I was a dietetics student, I had professors (the ones I built relationships with!) and peers tell me about the CPSDA. Once I discovered it, I was excited to research and connect with the full-time sports RDs in this network. I took the initiative to introduce myself, let them know that I found them on the CPSDA website and that I was an aspiring sports RD. To my surprise, I received responses from almost all of the RDs I reached out to. I was even asked for my resume by a few of them. I often check-in with many of these RDs and regularly interact on social media. These relationships formed when you are a student will prove to be some of the most important in building your future career.
Reach out to other professionals via social media or email
Now that you are a member of the association/organization (wink, wink!), you can take the list of RDs and begin searching through Google or social media to start the conversation. The Get Hired Course has a section dedicated to networking on social media.
Send the RD a tailored direct message on a particular platform or a professional email if their email address is public.
When sending an email to build a relationship with an RD, let them know that you are an aspiring RD interested in their specific field. Express genuine interest in their own professional journey to learn how they got to where they are today. Ask if you can have 15-minutes of their time through a scheduled phone call. Do not expect an internship or paid opportunity through relationship building, the possibility of that may come in the future.
After reaching out, keeping in touch with your connections is just as important. Continue to build these relationships by checking-in every few months through email or direct message, even sharing their content on social media. Being genuine and consistent goes a long way.
If you are unable to join an association or organization, you can still search for RDs through social media and Google and build relationships in the same way. Find commonality by reading their biography and checking out their LinkedIn profile.
Example:
Similar to my story about reaching out to sports RDs, I had a friend who was interested in holistic nutrition. She followed a private practice RD and introduced herself and told her that she loved what she did as an RD. This friend shared that the RD then asked her to send a resume, and she then started virtually interning with her and creating social media content. This virtual internship served as an excellent experience for her dietetic internship application. Again, a genuine connection and a huge opportunity was the result of a simple email.
Volunteer
As a dietetics student, we know that volunteering plays a big part in securing a dietetic internship and landing future jobs as an RD. It is also a great way to get your name out there and begin building relationships in your field of interest. If you’re applying to distance dietetic internships, relationship building is even more important as starting with who you know is the best first step to preceptor searching. Reach out to multiple RDs at a time, and provide them with the information they need to secure yourself a volunteer opportunity.
While volunteering can be a great experience, it can be a lot to balance if you’re a dietetics student with a full-time job or a family at home. However, it’s important to note that volunteering does not have to be a long or full-time commitment. Taking the initiative to volunteer for a one-day event can be just as powerful, and even better if you made a strong first impression and stay in contact with the RD you worked with. Also, if you already have a full-time schedule during school months, try volunteering over winter or summer break. You do not have to commit hundreds of hours to make a good impression and build a great relationship.
Example:
Much of my personal volunteer experience and what I have learned when speaking with peers is that we have built relationships with a specific RD we have interned for, but these experiences have opened doors to making many other relationships with others. When volunteering at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), I was fortunate to get to know and work with two of UCLA’s other sports RDs. I am still in contact with all three of these RDs and have been able to refer to them for mentorship and positive letters of reference. I am extremely appreciative of their support.
Be a Go-Giver
For our future careers as dietitians, it is so important to make connections with as many dietitians in the field as possible. Creating relationships and offering your time to work with other dietitians gets your name out into your field of interest, shows other dietitians your dedication, and may even be the key to landing your dream job. To be successful in this, you must be willing to put in extra work. Founder, Jenny Westerkamp, RD, CSSD, encourages you to be a go-giver and “think about what you can give instead of what you can receive.” She strongly believes that what you give you will get back in return. It is a constant flow.
Prepare Financially
True or False: “DIs are paid positions because we are like employees, right?” Most of the time, this is false. A very popular thought to ponder is how you are going to pay for a DI. Possible expenses include: application fees, computer matching fees, printing costs, mailing costs, travel expenses, and then eventually the tuition, insurance, books, lab coats, room and board, and other program-related costs. This is astronomical for interns and college students who do not get paid! It’s unfortunate that there are financial limitations in many programs. And even with a stipend, some students still find it hard to cover even the most basic of costs.
I vividly remember hearing about a DPD director telling a class of dietetic seniors about the time she was on food stamps during her DI. My mouth dropped immediately. What? Is it that bad? Well for me, I survived on all student loans and knew many interns that did the same. I lived in a comfortable apartment and COULD afford groceries, thank goodness. I’ll be in some debt but I look at my loans as an “educational investment.” I am confident that my return on investment will be exponential! Even so, financial costs for DIs seem to be high on the list of deciding fac- tors for many applicants.
Here’s a rundown of financial sources:
Scholarships – First, complete the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation scholarship application. Next, check out your local and state dietetic associations. This includes the state you are leaving and the state you are entering if they are different. Scholarships are a GREAT way to get your school paid for without having to pay it back. Be creative with Google too – try “nutrition scholarship” or “dietitian scholarship” and see what might come up. Throw in names of your respective states or cities too. You just never know.
Some programs have scholarships specifically for their interns. Others have state scholarships that are not as competitive as national scholarships. They are definitely worth applying to. Let’s say you work on an application for 5 hours. Then, you get awarded a $500 scholarship. You basically just got paid $100 per hour! NICE!
Loans – They could be federal student loans, private student loans, or personal loans. Ask the program directors which loans are available to you during the internship. Do you know if the internship program has applied to the government for educational loan status? Also, is deferment possible for your undergraduate student loans?
Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program: • Low-interest rates • Loans deferred while the student is enrolled in an eligible program of study at least half time • Can be subsidized or unsubsidized
Subsidized Loans: • Awarded on basis of financial need • Federal government pays interest on the loan until you begin to pay it off (when you become less than a half time student)
Unsubsidized Loans: • Not awarded on basis of need • Interest begins to accrue at the time you receive the loan (the “disbursement date”) • Interest accrues from the disbursement date until you pay off the loan in full
Have a Wide Variety of Experiences
If you ask any dietetics student about what it takes to be more competitive with their internship applications you may hear,
“Start volunteering soon and often!” Then, he or she will emphasize that you should get as many experiences as you can before you are in the process of applying. Your experience says a lot about your interests as well as your personality traits. Be proactive about gaining experiences by taking the initiative. Show that you have the ability to juggle multiple things at once. A great example is holding a part-time job during the semester. You also want to convey your willingness to learn new skills and show your enthusiasm for learning. Take on a position that may be extra challenging. As directors review your experiences, they will notice qualities like professionalism, multitasking, leadership, and solid communication (just to name a few).
Create Experience Worth Writing About
Your experiences are what you will use to show that you have the skills to excel in the internship. If you can’t find good experiences offered through your school or within your community, start a new club or work with an RD that can be your mentor and provide invaluable one-on-one experience. It shows that you are a go-getter and are not afraid to take initiative!
Variety is Key
During the internship, each rotation may be very different from the others. Racking up exposure in a lot of different areas will make your internship year less intimidating. Getting experience in basic clinical, food service, and community areas is crucial since these are required rotations for every DI. Once you’ve done that, expand to more specialized areas like research, business, entrepreneurship, sports nutrition, pediatrics, or communications. Not only will you have your bases covered with “typical” student positions, but you can also bolster your application with impressive add- ons that allow you to rise above the crowd.
Making the Ask
How exactly are you supposed to go about finding these impressive add-ons? Let me be the first to tell you that Google can only take you so far! As dietetics students, we all crave opportunities to prove ourselves in the professional world. However, you must be willing to take some risks. I want to let you in on my own personal secret called “making the ask”. Here’s how it works. If you haven’t already spent some time on the Internet researching companies, hospitals, professional organizations, dietitians in private practice, etc., then it’s time you got started. First, do the obvious. Check and see if they offer established internships or volunteer experiences. If they don’t, make the ask! If you don’t ask, your answer is always NO.
Not quite “experience-hungry” yet? Keep in mind that a wide variety of experiences will allow you to:
Decide what you are interested in
Gain contacts in the field
Show your willingness to learn and commitment to the profession
Expand your skillset
Prove to directors that you take initiative to gain as much experience as possible
Take advantage of breaks
Use Your Breaks Wisely
If you are lucky enough to have them, utilize those month-long winter breaks to squeeze in more experience or even get started on applications! Here are some ideas to stay busy in between semesters:
Volunteer at a food bank or soup kitchen. It will be especially busy during the holidays. Not sure of a food bank or soup kitchen near you? Search here and find opportunities!
Help an RD set up his/her blog and contribute posts regularly (nutrition communications!).
Volunteer at a hospital for any holiday events, especially in the food service department.
Start a blog of your own nutrition-related experiences.
Reconnect with your summer job supervisor to see if they could use an extra hand.
Use this time to set up shadowing appointments with a variety of RDs to get to know more about the field.
Research and apply for summer job options. Many summer internships are filled by January.
Collect awards, past work, and projects and create an online résumé using Blogger, WordPress, or VisualCV. Put this link on your application résumé. It’s all the rage!
Where Should I apply?
What do you want out of an internship? Take the time to investigate your options and think about what you want to get out of your DI.
Define What you Want
What do YOU want out of your 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 people who decided not to apply somewhere be- cause they thought it was too tough to get in even though it may have been their dream internship.
Please 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 will match your interests and experiences.
Location
Possible Options
Near Home
Far from Home
Distance Learning
Questions to Ask
Where do I want to get a job after the internship?
Do I have the finances to move?
Am I able to leave any obligations in my current location?
Am I a self-directed learner?
This might be the most important deciding factor if you want to stay near your family, are already employed in the area, or have obligations that will not allow you to move to a new city. For you, deciding on the location of your program is easy! For those of you without a geographical barrier, you’re able to choose from many outstanding programs all over the country! You may find an internship on the other side of the country that fits your interests perfectly.
Yes, moving to a new city can be expensive, scary, and risky, but it could be so worth it! Do not be afraid to sacrifice one or two years in an unfamiliar location if it means completing an internship that will bring you one step closer to reaching your unique goals. Also, think about where you want to seek employment after the internship. If you stay in this area, you may develop relationships with other dietitians and facility personnel, which could lead to a job after you graduate. I encourage everyone to look at all the unique programs across the country and don’t let location hold you back if it doesn’t have to.
If you do move, there is more preparation needed and it could be harder to adjust to new surroundings. If you stay near home, there are fewer living expenses and transportation costs. Look at all costs, since they might even out in the end. For example, if traveling means getting a stipend instead of paying tuition then it could be worth it. Also, if you need a car for an internship nearby, but can use public transportation for the internship across the country, these are the financial decisions you must consider. Distance programs will still require transportation. You must do well with online learning and be self-motivated. There is less networking with other interns, but you can still make good connections with potential employers at local sites.
Money
Possible Options
Tuition/Program Fee
No Tuition
Stipend
Questions to Ask
• Can I afford tuition?
• Can I defer existing student loans during the internship?
• What other costs do I have?
• Can I still get financial aid for living expenses?
• Does the program meet my needs, no matter the price?
Even if it seems like the internship is a financial burden, remember that you are likely to get a very good return on your educational investment. Of course, you may desire to avoid debt and if this is the case, stipend programs could be your best bet.
Don’t judge a book by its cover on this deciding factor though. Some programs may have stipends, but they may also have tuition that is more than the stipend. Note that Veterans’ Affairs internships are notorious for offering stipends. Living costs associated with the location on the program may end up canceling out the stipend in the end. With any financial decision, analyze all the numbers and research available financial aid by contacting the program director or financial aid office.
Undergraduate loans may be deferred, but you still might need financial aid. If there is no tuition, you might have a harder time finding financial aid (since you might not be considered a student).
Also, ask the program director for information on scholarship opportunities, especially for combined Masters and internship programs.
Concentration
Possible Options:
General
Clinical
Food Service Management
Community
Research
Sports Nutrition
Pediatrics
Questions to Ask:
What are my short-term career goals?
Am I unsure of my career goals?
Do I desire a strong foundation in every area of dietetics?
In preparation for the next step in your dietetics journey, it is essential that you research all the different areas that a dietitian can practice in. Beware of saying, “I don’t know what I am interested in!” if you have not even researched what is available to you. Talk to your advisor, other dietitians, your professors, and dietetics-related work supervisors (or check out “Research the Field”).
Choosing a general emphasis is great if you do not know what you are interested in yet or are interested in multiple areas. On the other hand, remember that all internships are required to have a minimum amount of hours in each area of dietetics, so you won’t be missing out if you choose a specific emphasis. Finally, think about where you want to work right out of the internship and consider if a niche emphasis would benefit you when applying.
Grad School
Possible Options:
Combined Masters and Internship
Some Graduate Credits
Internship Only
Questions to Ask
Is a graduate degree one of my professional goals?
Do I know what area of dietetics I am most interested in?
Can I handle the time and financial commitment that comes along with the combined program?
Am I hope that the internship will help me find my niche?
Can I afford it?
There has been much debate over choosing a combined internship with graduate school or just the internship. A combined program will allow you to obtain your Master’s degree while simultaneously meeting the requirements to fulfill a DI program. These programs are usually longer than a DI program by itself, but you leave with a Master’s degree. A combined program is a nice option to consider for advancing your education while completing your internship.
It all comes down to what your career goals are. You don’t want to enter a combined Master’s in Clinical Nutrition program, only to discover that you have no interest in practicing clinical nutrition. There are also many types of Master’s programs applicable to the RD, such as public health, business administration, entrepreneurship, or nutrition communications.
Of course, it is not the end of the world and a Master’s credential will still provide you with a competitive advantage for career opportunities in any area of dietetics, but it’s to your advantage to think carefully about your decision and get the most out of your advanced study.
Researching DI Programs
Researching DI programs can be overwhelming. “Eat Right Pro” has a great tool to research programs all over the state. Click here to check it out.
Curious About the Application Process for Dietetic Internships?
Have an open mind and don’t be limited by the location of the internship, unless you have a 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!
Also, 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 location, 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 2 months before the deadline.
Are you applying to dietetic internships? Check out our FREE DICAS starter pack to start your journey to a happy match day!
Here’s What you’ll Get
7 Ways to be an Awesome Dietetics Student E-book
Dietetic Internships 101 Webinar
Downloadable Dietetic Internship Database
How to Choose the Right Dietetic Internship
How to Find Preceptors for Distance Dietetic Internships
P.S Applying to dietetic internships? Get an expert coach in your corner helping you through every step of this confusing application journey. You’ll get the exact roadmap, personalized advice, application reviews, accountability, and confidence that will bring you one step closer to becoming a dietitian. Click here to learn more about Get Matched Coaching.
We’ve compiled 5 tips that will help you secure preceptors, overcome common obstacles, and create a successful distance dietetic internship.
Distance dietetic internships are a great way to obtain the supervised practice experience needed to sit for the Registration Exam to become a registered dietitian (RD). The overall curriculum and end goal of the distance dietetic internship is similar to a traditional dietetic internship. Interns complete rotations that focus on clinical, community, food service, and possibly a separate concentration such as management or nutrition education. The difference is that in most cases students are required to find their preceptors. A preceptor is an individual (in many cases a dietitian) that you will be interning for. It can be challenging to get individuals to commit to working with you so far in advance and for so many hours, but we have compiled tips that will help you create the internship experience of your dreams!
1. Reach out to someone in your area who has done a distance internship
Knowing someone who has already completed a distance dietetic internship is invaluable. Even if they live in a different area than where you are going to be completing your internship, talking through the process and asking them questions will be extremely helpful. If you are lucky enough to know someone who lives in the same area as you, ask if they are willing to share contact information for their preceptors with you. These preceptors may agree to work with you too, or they may provide you with contact information for other individuals to work with.
2. Start early
It took me nearly 10 months to have all of my preceptors lined up, and scheduled in specific time slots, and to obtain all of the proper documentation. The internship application is only open for 2 months, so if you wait until the DICAS application is open to start contacting preceptors you are too late. I recommend reaching out about a year from your Match Day. This is very early and many people will not have calendars dated to the time that you are asking to work with them. That being said, you will have plenty of time to face occasional rejection, go through your list of plan B preceptors, and not stress because of time throughout the process.
3. Set follow-up deadlines for yourself
I learned this trick from my previous life as a sales manager. Follow-up is key when asking individuals for something, even if it is their time. Set a reminder in your planner or phone for 1 week from your first point of contact to follow up if you have not heard anything yet. Setting these follow-up dates immediately after the initial e-mail, voicemail, or phone call is made will prevent anyone from slipping through the cracks who may not have responded to your message initially. It will also make you appear organized and self-motivated, which are two selling points as to why these individuals should WANT to work with you.
4. Make everything as easy as possible for your preceptor
This goes along with number three. Keep in mind that these individuals are extremely busy, and asking them to have you intern for them for 50, 100, or 400 hours can be a bit stressful. Make sure to keep e-mails succinct by utilizing bullet points and bolding important information, and provide all necessary information for them.
5. Get creative with who you ask to be a preceptor
Ideally, all of your preceptors will be RDs, but in some cases that is just not realistic. Think about other ways that you can fulfill the requirements in areas that do not require you to work with an RD. Another way to get creative is to think about more “fun” or “non-traditional” dietetics jobs and reach out to those RDs. I got creative by reaching out to the dietitian at a local university, the executive director of a non-profit organization, and an RD who has my dream job!
True or False: “I need to have clinical experience to be competitive for an internship.” This may be true if the emphasis of the program is clinical. However, broad and unique experiences may sometimes outweigh clinical experience, depending on the program director’s selection criteria for its applicants. And since “a wide variety” implies having more than one dietetics experience, you must seek out experiences before your application year. Let’s get moving!
If you ask any dietetics student about what it takes to be more competitive with their internship applications, you may hear, “Start volunteering soon and often!” Then, they will emphasize that you should get as many experiences as you can before you are in the process of applying. Your experience says a lot about your interests as well as your personality traits. Be proactive about gaining experiences by taking the initiative. Show that you can juggle multiple things at once.
A great example is holding a part-time job during the semester. You also want to convey your willingness to learn new skills and show your enthusiasm for learning. Take on a position that may be extra challenging. As directors review your experiences, they will notice qualities like professionalism, multitasking, leadership, and solid communication (to name a few).
Create Experiences Worth Writing About
Your experiences are what you will use to show that you have the skills to excel in the internship. If you can’t find good experiences offered through your school or within your community, start a new club or work with an RD that can be your mentor and provide invaluable one-on-one expertise. It shows that you are a go-getter and are not afraid to take the initiative!
Variety is Key
During the internship, each rotation may be very different from the others. Racking up the exposure in a lot of different areas will make your training year less intimidating. Getting experience in basic clinical, food service, and community areas are crucial since these are required rotations for every DI. Once you’ve done that, expand to more specialized areas like research, business, entrepreneurship, sports nutrition, pediatrics, or communications. Not only will you have your bases covered with “typical” student positions, but you can also bolster your application with impressive add- ons that allow you to rise above the crowd.
Making the Ask
How exactly are you supposed to go about finding these impressive add-ons? Let me be the first to tell you that Google can only take you so far! As dietetics students, we all crave opportunities to prove ourselves in the professional world. However, you must be willing to take some risks. I want to let you in on my secret called “making the ask.” Here’s how it works. If you haven’t already spent some time on the Internet researching companies, hospitals, professional organizations, dietitians in private practice, etc., then it’s time you got started. First, do the obvious. Check and see if they offer established internships or volunteer experiences. If they don’t, make the ask! If you don’t ask, your answer is always NO.
Not quite “experience-hungry” yet? Keep in mind that a wide variety of experiences will allow you to:
Decide what you are interested in
Gain contacts in the field
Show your willingness to learn and commitment to the profession
Expand your skillset
Prove to directors that you take the initiative to gain as much experience as possible
Take advantage of breaks
Use Your Breaks Wisely
If you are lucky enough to have them, utilize those month-long winter breaks to squeeze in more experience or even get started on applications! Here are some ideas to stay busy in between semesters:
Volunteer at a food bank or soup kitchen. It will be hectic during the holidays.
Help an RD set up their blog and contribute posts regularly (nutrition communications!).
Volunteer at a hospital for any holiday events, especially in the foodservice department.
Start a blog of your own nutrition-related experiences.
Reconnect with your summer job supervisor to see if they could use an extra hand.
Use this time to set up shadowing appointments with various RDs to get to know more about the field.
Research and apply for summer job options. Many summer internships are filled by January.
Collect awards, past work, and projects and create an online résumé using Blogger.com, WordPress.com, or VisualCV.com. Put this link on your application résumé. It’s all the rage!
A dietetic internship or RD program brings you one step closer to becoming a dietitian. Unfortunately, most are unpaid. Jenny discusses internship payment options below!
True or False: “Dietetic internships (DIs) are paid positions because we are employees, right?” Most of the time, this is false. A very popular thought to ponder is how you are going to pay for a DI. Possible expenses include: application fees, computer matching fees, printing costs, mailing costs, travel expenses, and then eventually the tuition, insurance, books, lab coats, room and board, and other program-related costs. This is astronomical for interns and college students who do not get paid! It’s unfortunate that there are financial limitations in many programs. And even with a stipend, some students still find it hard to cover even the most basic of costs. Written by an All Access Dietetics dietetic intern.
I vividly remember hearing a DPD director telling a class of dietetics seniors about the time she was on food stamps during her DI. My mouth dropped. “What? Is it that bad?” For me, I survived on all student loans and knew many interns that did the same. I’ll be in some debt, but I view my loans as an educational investment. I am confident that my return on investment will be exponential! Even so, financial costs for DIs seem to be high on the list of deciding factors for many applicants.
First, review the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Scholarship Application. Next, check out your local and state dietetic associations. This includes the state you are leaving and the state you are entering (if they are different). Scholarships are a GREAT way to get your school paid for without having to pay it back. Be creative with Google, too. Try “nutrition scholarship” or “dietitian scholarship” and see what might pop up. Even throw in names of your respective states or cities- you just never know. Some programs have scholarships specifically for their interns. Others have state scholarships that are not as competitive as national scholarships. Let’s say you work on an application for five hours. Then, you get awarded a $500 scholarship. You basically just got paid $100 per hour…NICE!
Loans
They could be federal student loans, private student loans, or personal loans. Ask the program directors which loans are available to you during the internship. Do you know if the internship program has applied to the government for educational loan status? Also, is deferment possible for your undergraduate student loans?
Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program:
– Low-interest rates
– Loans deferred while a student is enrolled in an eligible program of study at least half time
Unsubsidized Loans:
– Not awarded on basis of need
– Interest begins to accrue at the time you receive the loan (the “disbursement date”)
– Interest accrues from the disbursement date until you pay off the loan in full
– You can pay the interest or allow it to accumulate and capitalize
Subsidized Loans:
– Awarded on basis of financial need
– The federal government pays interest on the loan until you begin to pay it off (when you become less than a half time student)
You might suspect there is no easy solution for the financial burden that comes with DIs but definitely explore your options. For you, it may be possible to get a little financial help and also feel settled about the fact that your bank account contains only borrowed money. Maybe then you will want to soak up everything the internship has to offer and get your money’s worth!
Working During the Internship
This may not be an option if your internship discourages it. But, if you are in a part-time program or maybe a distance program, those both might have the best set up for having a job. That said, I’ve seen interns in traditional programs have jobs, but the jobs would have to be super flexible. Below are 15 unique ideas on how to make money during the internship.
1. Grow your Instagram and social media
Do you run an Instagram that you’re really passionate about expanding but not quite sure how? Or maybe you’ve been thinking about starting a new foodie blog but have no clue where to begin. Learn how to attract your target audience, beat the algorithm, and increase your engagement using these tips. Once your Instagram is up and running, your next step is to check out everything you need to know to create a successful online business. Instagram is a great way to make money as a dietetics student.
2. Create a blog and learn how to sell on your website
Looking for a way to make money that gives you flexibility and room to put your creativity into action? A blog is not only a great way to share your knowledge and passion with others, but also great for making new connections. The Unconventional RD teaches nutrition professionals ways they can earn passive and alternative income that they may not have even known existed. This blog offers tons of tips and resources from google analytics to connecting with brands that fit your M.O. Use your blog to help establish yourself in the field, build your professional network, all while making money in your pajamas.
Expand your blog, Instagram, or Youtube channel with sponsored posts! Click here for tips on defining your brand, reaching your audience, improving your engagement, and more.
4. TikTok
Yes, you read that right. TikTok is currently one of the fastest-growing platforms out there and no, you don’t have to be the next Charlie Dimelio to grow your following. TikTok is a great outlet for entrepreneurs to increase their engagement and following in a short period of time. But how do I use it? What kind of content should I post? Use this article Tik Tok for Entrepreneurs, as a guide on making videos, increasing your following, and creating content that stands out.
5. Start a business
If you’re interested in the entrepreneurial side of dietetics, I strongly urge you to get an online business coach like Tony Stephan. Tony Stephan is a successful Registered Dietitian who built his own online nutrition coaching business from the ground up. Check out his blog and read Tony’s article, Starting a Nutrition Business as a Dietetics Student to learn more! Libby Rothschild is another awesome Registered Dietitian and expert in social media and marketing! Read about how she went from working in a hospital to running her own company here. But wait there’s more. The founder of All Access Dietetics, Jenny Westerkamp’s story of how she started her own business in dietetics all while still being a dietetic student is a worthwhile read here. Lastly, if you want to learn about marketing and creating a business or expanding your current one, consider enrolling in The RD University.
6. Wellness coaching
If you love nutrition counseling and are searching for a platform to expand your services, check out Healthie. This virtual care platform is perfect for managing your practice, communicating with your clients, and building your relationships.
7. Manage social media for a dietitian
Maybe you follow a blog or Instagram that has always been your inspiration and you’ve been dying to get involved. Reach out to them and see if they need help with their social media content! Use the tool Canva to help you create new and innovative content. It offers hundreds of free templates to help create graphics, posters, logos, presentations, and more. You can also check out the article: The 6 Best Free Design Tools to Create Social Media Graphics, to learn how to make your content stand out and capture your audience’s attention.
7. Uber or Lyft
Love listening to tunes and getting to know people? Driving for Uber or Lyft may be the right fit for you. Click here for more information on getting started with Lyft.
8. Waiter or waitress
Work part-time as a waiter or waitress to earn some extra money! If your classes or internship aren’t the typical 9-5 hours, waitressing is a convenient way to fill in those gaps or weekends. If you want to stay active, improve your customer service skills, and learn how to work under pressure, consider getting a job at a restaurant.
9. Front desk at a gym
Another job that’s not your usual 9-5 is working at the front desk of a gym or yoga studio. This kind of environment offers flexible hours and early or late shifts outside of normal business hours. Some places may even offer you a discounted or free gym membership. Pop into your local gym or visit their website to apply.
10. VIPKID
Have a passion for teaching and working with kids? Teach English online with VIPKID. Set your own schedule, teach one-on-one lessons, and get to experience the rewarding feeling of educating young minds, all while getting paid.
11. Babysitting
Babysitting is an easy way to earn extra money as a dietetics student. Use Indeed, Care.com, or your local community Facebook pages to find babysitting gigs in your area.
12. Catering department at a hospital or long-term care facility
Apply to work in a hospital as a patient dining associate in the Food and Nutrition Department. In this setting, you will be on your feet, interacting with patients, helping with their menu selections, and much more. This environment not only can help you familiarize yourself with working in a hospital setting but also gives you the opportunity to interact with patients and brighten their day. Most positions have weekend or evening events, or you can inquire about working per diem.
If you’re outgoing and are seeking a flexible schedule look into becoming a brand ambassador. Start with the products you already love and enjoy and check out their company website for ambassador opportunities. Stop into your local grocery store or reach out to a company to inquire!
15. Use social media to make money
Looking to grow your social media following, stand out as an expert online, and learn how to grow a profitable online business? Join Rise to the Top, a self-paced virtual business course for dietitians and dietitians-to-be who want to learn how to carve your own path in the world of food, nutrition, and recipes to grow a brand and business! Led by Maggie Michalczyk, RDN, and Mary Ellen Phipps, MS, RDN, Rise to the Top takes you through everything from growing your Instagram following, pitching yourself to brands, doing your taxes as an entrepreneur and so much more! Learn more about the course here! (affiliate link)
Final Thoughts
I have one last piece of advice on money: I hear a lot of interns say that one of the challenges of an unpaid internship program is that you feel like you are working for FREE. If they are having a bad day, it is easy to complain about the fact that they are free labor. It basically becomes the scapegoat for their frustration. But I have a thought for you that will nip this bad attitude in the bud: Remember that this internship is the one last step you need to take until you reach your goal of becoming a dietitian. You are still paying for an education. Did you expect to be paid full-time to study in college?
As you move along through the program, focus on the end goal of the internship: to be a competent, entry-level dietitian. Also, think about all of those people who didn’t get matched. How lucky you are to even be in a DI/RD program? Many institutions lose money on providing a DI through liability or lost time teaching, among other reasons. In fact, that is part of the reason that there aren’t enough spots available to everyone that applies. Therefore, you know the people guiding and teaching you at the hospital are dedicated to the advancement of the field. Be thankful for this. Stay motivated, positive, and complaint-free. This should make for a more beneficial experience.
Ready to get started on your application for a DI or RD program?
Dietetics Admissions: Get an expert coach in your corner helping you through every step of this confusing application journey. Imagine having a roadmap, personalized advice, application reviews, accountability, and confidence that will bring you one step closer to becoming a dietitian.Learn more about Dietetics Admissions here.
FREE application resources: You have questions. We have answers! The Application Toolkit is designed to teach you everything you need to know about dietetic internships in a streamlined and simple way. No more Google searching and reading random blog posts all over the Internet.Download the FREE Application Toolkit here.
P.S. Did you know certain RD programs, like those with the Veterans Affairs hospitals, offer stipends? These types of programs are more competitive because of that. Luckily, Coach Katie Braun was on a VA selection committee for 5 years and knows exactly how to increase your chances of landing a spot. Apply for Dietetics Admissions today to work with Katie.
The road to becoming a Registered Dietitian is not easy, and there is a lot of competition along the way. The biggest battle is against yourself.
By: Emily Hulse
If you’re anything like me, you’ve seen it all. You’ve seen students glancing at one another’s tests as they’re handed back, anticipating comparison, you’ve heard professors explain the importance of being a stand-out student relentlessly, and you’ve read the statistics of the latest Match Round of the dietetic internship. You understand the road to becoming a dietitian is competitive, but you won’t give up on your dream.
Sometimes, it seems impossible to attain the famous RDN credential.
To become an R.D., you have to jump through hoops, including a Bachelor’s degree, Verification Statement, Dietetic Internship, and a national exam. Don’t get me wrong- these steps ensure that dietitians across the country are prepared for their positions. Producing amazing dietitians is incredibly important, but just because I’ve accepted it doesn’t make it any easier to digest!
This process can look overwhelming during the daily routine of classes, supervised practice, volunteering or working a paid job, studying, eating, and trying to exercise. This can lead to stress, mental health issues, or even fear of the future within this field. But it doesn’t have to turn out this way.
It’s easy to see how difficult the road to becoming an RDN is.
But sometimes, the obstacle most in your way is… yourself. As hard as that is sounds, it’s true that you are the only one in charge of your success. You can still be competitive without competing against others and ruining relationships with other incredible students. The best competition comes from within, from making ourselves better on the inside rather than focusing on the success of our classmates/peers, professors, and school.
Next time your professor hands out an exam, don’t focus on the student’s score next to you.
Instead, focus on how it compares to your final exam grade. If it’s better – excellent, and if not, inspire yourself to work harder. Keep track of your grades and aim to improve at each opportunity. When your professor reiterates the importance of being a stand-out student, remember that you already are one! If you feel unprepared for the future, find more opportunities for success. It doesn’t always mean joining the same clubs as your other classmates to check off another box on your resume. Maybe it means getting a job or starting a blog to keep you motivated and set you apart. Whatever it is, make sure to motivate yourself to stay humble and grounded. And finally, while the statistics don’t often lie, remember that one day after hard work and dedication, you’ll be matched to a dietetic internship, too.
While it is easier said than done, reflecting on your future career in nutrition and dietetics, your passions, experiences, and goals will help you see the importance of your choices. Instead of spending four years tearing down your classmates’ grades, build yourself up and achieve what you can. It all will pay off, even if it is hard to see during midterms week. In the end, becoming an R.D. is all worth it.
Stay humble and motivated, RD2Be’s. And remember who the real competition is: yourself.
P.S. Are you in yet? Check out Get Matched Coaching so you can land the dietetic internship of your dreams.
The best way to make an RD2Be laugh? The answer is always food driven hilarity. We asked “What is the worst thing you ever made in food lab?” and the response was superbly sidesplitting. How is it that we can make the perfect healthier style pumpkin bread but a food lab assignment is the hardest thing in the world? We’ll never know…
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There you have it. We can discuss in detail about the structure of amino acids, understand the functions of each vitamin and mineral, but there’s just something about food lab that trips us up… Tag us in your beautiful messes #FoodLabFails!
Halloween is just around the corner, and with all of the happenings going on this weekend, we couldn’t help but post some of the best DIY food costumes circulating the internet. If you need a last-minute costume idea, we’ve got you covered!
Every Registered Dietitian is bound to run into a Google Degree, meal plan request, or a tale of an extreme diet. Here are seven stories you can relate to.
We’ve all been there—multiple times. You’re out with family or friends, and someone asks you what you are studying in school. You’re so excited to tell them “Dietetics!” and once you do, you get bombarded with those questions that every dietetic student has now begun to memorize and even dread. Nutrition is a major that everyone and I mean everyone, seems to want to talk about! Below, I’ve listed the top 7 questions that I always seem to get, but please let us know some of the awkward requests or questions you may have gotten in the comments section!
Can you make me a meal plan?
So you’re going to tell people not to eat the “good stuff”?
Maybe… but maybe not! Some of us may even tell you about one trend many dietitians love: Intuitive Eating.
Are you going to judge what I eat now?
Not if you don’t judge what we eat!
How do you feel about cleanses?
Wait, you’re a dietitian, and you’re going to eat that?
We may be dietitians, but we’re also human!
Oh, I can’t wait for you to help me lose weight!
Here, this is what I’ve eaten in the past 24 hours; what should I change?
Chances are, as a nutrition student or Registered Dietitian, these stories have happened to you. Some questions are more accessible to answer than others, but they all make for Fun (or funny!) memories.
For more RD2Be Fun, be sure to follow our INSTAGRAM.
P.S. Are you a dietetic intern preparing to take the R.D. exam? Check out Pass the Exam Prep to learn the Study Smarter Method and become a Registered Dietitian!
One of the most challenging aspects of becoming an R.D. is getting matched to a dietetic internship. Here are some ideas to add to your resume this summer!
With the match rate hovering around 50-60% each year, the competition is fierce. Internship directors consider more than just your grades when they are looking at your application. And although each internship has its requirements, students with relevant work and volunteer experience in food service or a nutrition-related field have a higher chance of matching to an apprenticeship.
So what can you do this summer to improve your resume? Here are some ways you can gain experience.
Volunteer
According to a Deloitte study, 82% of hiring managers said they prefer applicants with volunteer experience, and 92% say volunteer activities build leadership skills. The same applies to DI directors. Volunteering your time in an area that you are passionate about shows DI directors that you are self-motivated, dedicated, and responsible.
There are four broad categories to a dietetic internship: clinical, community, food service, and elective. If the internships you are interested in are clinically focused, volunteer in clinical settings. If they are a community, find community opportunities. But remember that experience can be applicable in many different ways to focus on opportunities that interest you.
Spending the summer months at an internship is a great way to get experience. A summer internship can also help you get a better understanding of what you are interested in. Use online websites like internships.com or indeed.com to find available internships. Another great way to find an internship is to network with R.D’s that might need a little help over the summer.
Earn a Specialty Certification
Adding a specialty certification to your resume may not only help you get matched but may also help you land a job faster. Certifications confirm your knowledge and skills in a specific area of practice. There are specialty certifications that you can earn over the summer. If you’re passionate about physical fitness, weight management, yoga, or a specialty area in nutrition, research the different certifications that are available. When looking for a certification, you should look for a validated and reliable certification examination and credible organizations.
Here’s a list of just a few of the specialty certifications out there that would enhance your resume:
Perhaps you already have a lot of experience or are working this summer; make sure your experiences are communicated well by spending your extra free time editing and revising your resume. If you have a mentor, ask them to look over your resume and provide you with feedback. Would they hire you based on your resume? Would they call you for an interview? Ask them for their honest feedback. You can also use the Get Matched Course or Get Matched Coaching, which offers a resume template, resume strategies, resumes rubrics, resume checklist, and resume samples.
Getting matched to an internship may seem overwhelming and impossible, but there are many ways of obtaining quality dietetics experiences. Taking the time to build a strong resume as a student will allow you to enter the internship application process with more confidence.
P.S. Starting early with Get Matched Coaching gives you the advantage of getting advice from your coach on what experience to add before applying! Many of our clients start the summer before the February deadline to get a head start and be as strategic as possible. Check out more information on coaching here!
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