You’ve read the instructions over and over, but there are a few things they don’t tell you about DICAS…read this list and find out what they are!
DICAS. One of the few things that stands between you and the internship of your dreams. It’s all new to you, and it can be overwhelming or confusing. First, take a look at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Next, check out our top tips below to give you a heads up on what to expect.
Your transcripts will probably take a looooong time to process.
You’ve heard the horror stories of having to FedEx your transcripts the day before they’re due because they got lost or how someone forgot a transcript all together. Avoid the panic and send your transcripts EARLY! Mine took around three weeks to process, so get them done as soon as your grades are posted.
You need to double and even triple check each section.
Even if you type a single letter into a section, DICAS will make it look like it is complete on the homepage, even if it isn’t. Be sure to look at every section before you submit.
The application will take you a lot of time, so plan accordingly.
Don’t become a hermit but this isn’t the time to take on extra shifts at work or go on a long vacation.
Every experience is important.
Although it may not be resume-worthy, definitely list it in the Activities section. Did you volunteer somewhere for just one shift? Add it there. Keep track of everything you’ve done so you don’t forget to add it in.
You should probably PDF your resume before you upload it.
Otherwise, your format will be messed up to whoever is reading it.
Ask for your recommendations early.
You can still submit your application without all of your references in, but nobody wants to write a recommendation letter with one week’s warning. Make sure you offer them your updated resume and a list of programs you are applying to so they can write to your strengths. And of course, send a thank-you note showing your appreciation.
You might have a few breakdowns/panic attacks/crying spells.
It’s part of the process 😉
Edit, edit, edit!
Before you submit, print out your final application so you can see it all in its glory and look it over. Snag your parents, friend, an AAD Coach, to check your grammar and help you improve the visual appeal, so that it all looks perfect.
Find an awesome support system.
Head on over to Instagram to join our RD2BE community! We have student takeovers, DICAS advice from Jenny, and so much more.
P.S. Get a full review of your DICAS application, DICAS tutorial, sample DICAS formatting, final DICAS checklist and more as part of the Get Matched Coaching experience!
Soooo true! Love this! For those who didn’t complete DICAS yet….this is spot on 😉
Great article, except usually DICAS will not delete your data entered if you start too early – this happened last year when they did a system upgrade, but typically, as long as you remember your password, it will save everything you entered. So, if you don’t match one time, you don’t have to start all over again – but you should update your references, resume, and personal statement each time
Thank you for clarifying, Mrs. Johnson! Good to know.
We updated this article and deleted the section about it deleting things 🙂