dietetic internship programs

  • RD2Be Fun

    20 Questions All Dietetics Students Get Asked

    Nutrition majors are notorious for frequently getting asked about food, health, and even poop. Here are the most commonly asked questions for an RD2BE!

    From the second senior year rolls around and you decide on your nutrition and dietetics major, you’re bound to get asked a few questions. There aren’t many people knowledgeable in the profession of dietetics, and maybe your parents are even included. By becoming an RD2BE, you’re signing up for four years of questions – some about you or the field, and some about incredibly personal topics. At first, you may feel unfit to answer these kinds of things, but you’ll be confident in your answers in no time. By the time you enter your dietetic internship, you’ll have heard them all (and will have some sound responses down). Here are the top 20 questions all dietetics students get asked.

    1. What exactly is the field of dietetics?

    2. …Oh. So you’re a nutritionist?

    4. What’s your take on the Paleo diet? Whole30? Atkins Diet?

    5. What do you even learn in your classes?

    6. Wait, you take a cooking class?

    7. How did you even hear about this profession?

    8. What kind of places will you work at when you graduate?

    9. Ok… so can I ask you about my poop?

    10. Are you judging me for getting Starbucks?

    11. …What about Chipotle?

    12. Want to cook me all my dinners from now on instead?

    13. So, are you kind of like a nurse?

    14. You know all of those fancy medical terms?

    15. Do you have a food blog I can follow?

    16. What about a foodie Instagram?

    17. Should I be taking a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar every morning?

    18. What about coconut oil?

    19. So, can you make me a meal plan?

    20. Why are you an RD2BE?

    Of course, some questions are out of curiosity more than selfishness, but you will always come across the person wanting free consultations. While the typical person may not know much about dietetics, you have the opportunity to share information and knowledge. The questions may get repetitive, but the field never does. Even the most straightforward question can fuel your fire for nutrition, and every question can be a beautiful thing.

    P.S. ARE YOU IN YET? Join the future dietitian newsletter to receive monthly webinar invitations, free resources, exclusive experience opportunities, and so much more!

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  • RD2Be Fun

    7 Awkward Things That Happen When You Tell Someone You Want to Be a Dietitian

    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!

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  • Dietitian Career Advice, RD2Be Fun

    Jenny Westerkamp Shares Her Career Story

    Since creating All Access Dietetics at 21, Jenny Westerkamp, RD, CSSD, has incredibly impacted the nutrition world as an entrepreneur and sports dietitian.

    Our founder Jenny shares her dietetics journey and lessons for loving your career every day right away. ENJOY!

    Click here to take your application to the next level with free resources and exclusive advice from Jenny!

    I gave a talk at a workshop to all the Boston dietetics students, and having attended that same workshop many years earlier; I was able to reflect on what has happened in my career since I started as a dietitian in 2009.  I pulled together my story and the lessons I learned along the way. As I was creating this, I took some time to think about my journey. How the heck did I get here? How did I get to the point where every single thing I do in my jobs I love? I love every single day. Why?

    So to start, I was a senior in college at the University of Illinois. I started at Illinois as a biology major, basically taking pre-med classes knowing that I did not have any interest in being a doctor. Then I happened to take an elective in nutrition and liked that application of the science. My friend was in dietetics, and so she gave me the scoop on food. I liked the idea of research and thought nutrition research would be a great specialty. I switched my major when I was a junior. When I switched majors, I knew I had to get a ton of experience to be competitive for a dietetic internship. I knew I needed leadership too. So I decided to start a new organization and make myself the President. Seriously. Students Team Up to Fight Hunger, which linked students on campus to the local food bank. Fun! Then, I spent time volunteering in research labs in the nutrition department because I still thought that I wanted to do research. I helped feed rats different diets in one study, but then at the end of the study, I had to watch them get their heads chopped off! The research was OUT.

    I ended up applying and getting matched to Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital because it was well-rounded, had an excellent reputation, had a clinical research rotation (with humans, not rats), and had a business plan rotation. I also really wanted to move to Boston! Don’t tell the selection committee that. My experience at MGH was pretty typical, except that I was running a business on nights and weekends!

    Backtrack to the fall semester of my senior year in college, and I had already applied for dietetic internships, waiting to hear where I would get matched. I was on the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics student message board reading through posts from students, and I saw this post from a girl named Katie Hamm, a junior at Kansas State University. She wanted to start a resource for dietetics students applying to dietetic internships. Since I had just finished up that process, I thought her idea was pretty genius. I ended up Facebook messaging her, and we started talking with each other, mostly sharing advice on going through the application process.

    Long story short, we were a match made in heaven. We hadn’t even met but felt like we could have been best friends. She asked if I would want to start this website with her, and I said YES! Beginning the website was right when I got accepted into Massachusetts General Hospital dietetic internship.

    That summer, Katie was able to get an internship at a public relations firm in Chicago, which worked out perfectly, so we spent the summer writing a business plan, an operating agreement, getting a small loan from my grandma. We decided that the best method for us was to ask a web developer to be on the team since it cost like $30,000 to build a website, and we had that amount in DEBT, not in CASH!

    I wanted to find someone from the University of Illinois because we have a prestigious computer science program. I searched Facebook for computer science majors in Illinois and offered a percentage of the company in return for being the website developer. We struck gold with a guy named Joel that was my age and had just started a job at a huge company. He was a genius, and he accepted our offer for a part in the company, which we named All Access Internships.

    In the beginning stages, Katie recommended a book called The Success Principles by Jack Canfield to start thinking like an entrepreneur. I was reading it on a family vacation in Florida, and with every page, I felt my life change. My whole thought process and how I was going to approach my career changed with that book. I always knew I wanted to be a leader somehow and had even been President and founder of a new club at the University of Illinois, but I didn’t know too much about starting my own business as a 21-year-old! I learned so many things from that book and recommended it to everyone, even if you don’t start your own business!

    OK, back to All Access Internships (now All Access Dietetics). That summer, I wrote the profiles for 300 dietetic internships, worked with Joel to build the website, and started a Facebook page before the website launched to get people excited about the site. Before the site launched, we already had 2,000 students on the Facebook page. We were mentioned in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics as an excellent resource for students before we went live!

    We used social media hardcore at the beginning since that was where all the students were! We learned social media marketing techniques and started a blog. I realized I loved social media!

    I moved to Boston at the end of the summer, and the site was ready to be launched in October, just one month in on my dietetic internship. Launching the website was so exciting. I remember sitting in my room on October 12, 2008, a Sunday, and my roommate Michele was with me as it officially went live. I announced on Facebook, and in the first hour, we already had 200 users! I couldn’t even believe it! I honestly thought maybe 16 or so people would want to use this.

    In the first year of AAI, we also had to face some resistance from dietetics educators that were unsure of what we were about. We learned very quickly how to accept feedback, deal with criticism, and even learn how not to take anything personally when personal attacks were made! Crazy, right? But we stayed motivated and on track because we knew that students all across the country were so happy with the website and loved it, so that’s what we stayed focused on.

    It started as a pretty static site with profiles and has since evolved to so much more. Katie decided to leave the team as an owner in 2010 when she accepted a full-time job in nutrition communications, but she still stays on as a coach.

    Now let’s switch gears a bit and talk about my day job as a dietitian! How did I become a sports nutritionist? When I became a dietitian, because All Access was more of a side job, I wanted to get a job in sports nutrition.

    Right after I switched my major to nutrition, I knew I needed to find experience. Then, I wanted to see if I could work with a dietitian near my parent’s home in the summer before my senior year. I googled “Chicago dietitian,” and Julie Burns popped up. I went to her website, read about SportFuel, and my jaw dropped. I remember it so clearly. She had her private practice, had a family, worked from home, and most importantly, had been the nutritionist for the Chicago Blackhawks, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Bears, and Chicago White Sox, as well as other professional athletes all around the country.

    I immediately wrote an emotion-filled email, with the email subject being “I want your life!.” I shared some information about me and said I would babysit her kids, watch her dog, do whatever she wanted if she let me be her intern. So she did! She was also a University of Illinois graduate and went to Massachusetts General Hospital for her internship, so the stars aligned.

    I interned with her while she was working with the Chicago Blackhawks and loved every minute of it. I didn’t realize how much I wanted to help this population of young athletes because I was not an athlete myself, but I have five younger brothers that all played sports, and being able to help them with their nutrition was very rewarding for me.

    I kept in touch with Julie and was very persistent, given how busy she was. I came back from my dietetic internship and was considering a job in public relations because I loved writing. I went on the interview and realized it was not right for me at all, and I went to Julie’s house right after and asked her for career advice, and she said, “I’ll hire you,” so she did.

    In my time with SportFuel, I started training and learning how she ran her private practice. Then I saw individual clients on my own. The Sportful approach was very progressive and holistic. We did functional nutrition testing, use food-based supplements,  and promote a whole; natural foods type diet plan for athletes. It was great to learn more than what we learned in our education, keep an open mind about holistic nutrition, and constantly dive into research.

    Through SportFuel, I worked with the Chicago Blackhawks affiliate team, the Rockford Icehogs, and their prospects. I spoke to all the NBA’s Development League, where I traveled around the country talking to each team about nutrition. I talked to a wide variety of audiences. I counseled people at a wellness center and a pilates studio on weight loss, food allergies, digestive disorders, and adrenal and thyroid issues. I loved every minute of it!

    SportFuel was never really a full-time job, so I was able to do other projects on the side in those four years to get more experience in different areas. I started a blog during my internship and consulted with R.D.s on social media before I was even a dietitian myself. I was paid to help them set up their social media platforms and give recommendations on the best ways for their business to capitalize on social media. From this, I was asked to write an ebook chapter on social media targeted at dietitians, which ended up being so popular that it was packaged as its guidebook by the publisher. Then, I wanted to write a book. It was just a goal of mine, so I decided to self-publish You Are What You Retweet: 140 Social Media Rules to Eat By, released in November 2012.

    In May 2013, I moved on from SportFuel to a food company called Kitchfix in Chicago. They make prepared meals that are EXACTLY the type of foods that I love and was promoting already! They found me via Twitter (oh, hey, social media!), and then I was intrigued by their company so much that I emailed them asking them if I could be their nutritionist. The owner, Chef Josh Katt, said yes! Kitchfix was growing, and FAST. I ran their social media, wrote nutrition content, ran nutrition challenges, gave talks, and helped with everything a growing start-up needed.

    In 2014, I co-authored Green Foods for Men with the former Editor-in-Chief offenses Fitness magazine. He connected with me on LinkedIn, and I asked,” Are you working on any nutrition books” The rest is history! The book came out in January 2015!

    After 2.5 years at Kitchfix, I decided to move on because All Access Internships was peaking, and I had a ton of personal clients for my All-Access Pass. AAI was finally a full-time job (at least during the application season). I figured I would do consulting on my own in the off-season. So I left in November 2013, went through the crazy application season through the winter, and then something FUN happened!

    My friend, Dawn Jackson Blatner, is the Chicago Cubs nutritionist (among other things, like T.V. show host, media guru, author, and all-around awesome person!). She reached out because the Cubs would expand their nutrition program to their minor league teams, and she told them that I would run it. H.A.! So humbled by her wanting me on her team, so of course, I said yes. 2016 was the first season, and boy, was it magical. Not sure if you remember, but the Cubs won the World Series (and I have a ring to prove it! AH!). I spent two seasons with the Chicago Cubs, and then in August 2017, I started with the Chicago Bulls! I also continue to run All Access Dietetics. My goals are to keep growing All Access Dietetics and become a better sports nutritionist! 

    The Lessons I Learned So Far

    I narrowed it down to these seven lessons that I felt have made the most significant impact on my career (and life) so far.

    1. Feel the fear and do it anyway.

    Starting All Access Internships at 21 years old is an excellent example of this. Just because someone says you shouldn’t do it, don’t listen. Learn as you go in the University of Life. Nothing would have prepared me for starting a business at 21 while also trying to complete my dietetic internship.  A great quote can sum this lesson all up: “Most of life is on-the-job training. Some of the most important things can only be learned in the process of doing them. You do something, and you get feedback — about what works and what doesn’t. If you don’t do anything for fear of doing it wrong, poorly, or badly, you never get any feedback, and therefore you never get to improve.”

    It takes fearlessness to risk starting a business on your own. Know that there is nothing wrong with not wanting to take risks; it really could not be the right path for you.

    However, the University of Life can be pretty rewarding. There are so many valuable lessons that your actions and experiences can provide you. Yes, you could get an MBA, take business courses, and all that jazz, but sometimes it is the feedback and criticism and things that might go wrong that all help you to do things RIGHT!

    Plus, The Success Principles was extremely helpful. When people ask,” Jenny, how did you know how to start a business” I am just like,” Jack told me how! He taught me everything.”

    2. How you present yourself matters.

    I learned this lesson when I was an intern at Massachusetts General Hospital, and they had a stringent dress code. The dress code helped me understand how to be professional. Imagine being in a locker room with many young men your age, trying to talk about protein! How could I gain their respect and also be an influential nutritionist? Or at a board meeting with the Nutrition Entrepreneurs Executive Committee, where everyone was double my age. How can I prove my value to the group? It always came back to how well I presented myself.

    While professionalism is a MUST, other slight hints to project more confidence and attract more success, besides the apparent firm handshake and eye contact, are to use both your first and last name in emails. 

    Things I learned NOT to do include sitting with my feet under me, tilting my head to the side when speaking, smiling/laughing when nothing was funny, and trying to make statements, but then ending them in questions. These are no-nos.  The book that helped me with this initiative was Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office.

    3. It’s all about who you know.

    All Access Dietetics led to meeting many people in dietetics, students and educators, and other R.D.s. As a student, I was a member of the Nutrition Entrepreneurs dietetics practice group and their Executive Committee. Through this group, I was introduced to the publisher for Social Media, and the R.D. Writing You Are What You Retweet led to meeting the owner of CJK Foods. Social media has been massive in connecting with people all over the country, and locally too!

    In addition, I was the President of the Chicago Food and Nutrition Network. I truly valued the people I know and work to keep relationships going. Because you never know when you might need that contact!

    My advice is to spend 5% of your day (24 minutes in an 8 hour day) building relationships. I can tell you that every single significant opportunity I have had resulted from someone I knew! Plan to meet with a potential or current connection once a week—even email me to kick start your relationship building!!

    4. Keep learning.

    Julie taught me to keep an open mind, keep learning in nutrition. The more you know, the more you realize what you don’t know! I keep educating myself in nutrition through following Twitter accounts, attending webinars and seminars, and reading books. Then outside of food, I learn about entrepreneurship and business. My favorite reads include: The Success Principles, Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office, The Lean Start-Up, and Success Magazine.

    5. Attitude determines altitude.

    During my dietetic internship, I had a little sticky note on my wall in front of my desk with the letters P-M-A (positive mental attitude, duh!). Your mental health is so important! Negative things constantly bombard us in the news and from others. I am not saying to stop watching the news (although I don’t watch it), but pay attention to what you expose yourself to each day. And also no complaining!

    Going through All Access Dietetics, I realized a positive attitude was a must, mainly when I was personally attacked on listservers. Going through the dietetic internship, I knew complaining was a massive waste of my energy with everything I had going on. Sitting at a lunch table with other dietetic interns that would go around the table taking turns telling how crappy their morning was ended up being something I needed to avoid. My roommate and I would play high-low-high where we would talk about a high point, then a low point (for 1-minute max), and another high end of the day. We would also challenge each other not to complain for the entire day! It made for a much more enjoyable year. That said, working in the hospital was so stressful, and I even developed legit shortness of breath. I tried so hard to get through those rotations as best as possible, but it was the worst time for me. The last day of clinical rotations was probably the best feeling EVER.

    Some research shows that the last 45 minutes of the day are the most influential on your attitude. So here are a few suggestions on how to spend it:

    • Read a self-improvement book
    • Prayer/meditation (Headspace is a great meditation app for this)
    • Watch or read something positive! (NOT the local news!!)

    Now here is a favorite quote of mine from The Success Principles: “You only have control over three things in your life — the thoughts you think, the images you visualize, and the actions you take (your behavior). How you use these three things determines everything you experience. If you don’t like what you are producing and participating in, you have to change your responses “JACK is the BEST!

    6. Know what you want.

    If you aren’t sharing what you want, you won’t get what you want. What does it mean to manage your career? Define your career goals and work towards them.  Understand what you truly want out of your job, identify the action steps you need to take, and complete these necessary action steps consistently until goals are met. Finally, make a list of 30 things you want to do, 30 things you want to have, and 30 things you want to be in your life! This list will get your mind working on figuring out what you want. I keep a list of goals in my iPhone notes and refer to it almost daily. It keeps me focused but also keeps me thinking about what else I can add to that list.

    7. Do what you love.

    You know, your career is not supposed to be a terrible thing. Yes, it should be challenging, but you should either change your attitude or get the heck out if you don’t enjoy it. You want to work in an environment that you love every day, right away.

    Malcolm Forbes said,” The most significant mistake people make in life is not trying to make a living at doing what they enjoy most” Good food for thought!

    I believe that this field is limitless and will continue to present new opportunities to future dietitians. Food and nutrition are hot topics for the media and general consumers, so dietitians need to be a part of the conversation! Dietitians in business, communications, public relations, corporate wellness settings, policy, or even grocery stores are now offering their voice. They can influence our nation’s eating habits on a broader level.

    Because of this need, anyone wishing to do something” outside-the-box” (clinical, food service, community) should most definitely pursue it because if that is your passion, success will surely follow.

    My most important advice? DO WHAT YOU LOVE! You’ll be better at it. Passion is an incredible motivator. It fuels focus, resilience, and perseverance. The fact that I have loved everything I have done so far is a big reason why I have been able to succeed in them and learn lessons along the way. There are endless possibilities for dietitians to become entrepreneurs and design a career all their own that they will love every single day, right away.

    Thanks for reading my career story! I hope you found my advice to be helpful. If you have any questions, I invite you to email me at jenny@allaccessdietetics.com.

    P.S. If you’re applying to dietetic internships, invest in yourself and your future by enrolling in Get Matched Coaching! Click here to learn more about our one-on-one program.

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  • Dietetics Programs

    Random Things to Know When You Are About to E-Submit on DICAS

    Before you electronically submit your DICAS dietetic internship application, here are some fast facts you should know.

    You’ve finally input all of your personal and academic information and are ready to hit submit on your DICAS dietetic internship application. But, what else should you know? Let’s discuss!

    Random Things to Know…

    DICAS does not take American Express- have your Mastercard or Visa ready!

    You have to answer a few questions before you can submit your application. Don’t panic!

    Make sure you get the email from DICAS that confirms you submitted your application. Don’t forget to save this email, too.

    On that note, get an email confirmation on D&D Digital– just in case anything crazy happens, you want proof!

    Please don’t go over the 1,000 word limit on your statement unless you confirm that your program allows it. Note: this is RARE. Following directions is key to success.

    Send thank-you notes to your references and the directors if you went to an open house.

    Final Thoughts

    Applying to the dietetic internship program of your dreams is scary, but you can be a bit more prepared using our advice. These tips will make your application experience just a little less stressful- and we all need that!

    Do you have a random thing other nutrition students should know about DICAS? Sound off in the comments!

    P.S. ARE YOU IN YET? Join the Get Matched Course to fast track to a happy and successful Match Day!

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  • Dietetics Programs

    Let’s Talk About E-Portfolios

    E-Portfolios highlight your experience and personal goals so dietetic internship programs can learn more about you. Here are my top 3 e-portfolio tips!

    Let’s talk about e-portfolios. These are websites that some programs will ask you to make that highlight your strengths. E-portfolios act as a visual application, including work examples, pictures of you, “in action,” in a dietetics experience, and share your goals and any other appropriate personal information (like your love for baking, for example!).

    Click here to take your application to the next level with free resources and exclusive advice from Jenny!

    When putting together the e-portfolio, most applicants use Wix, Weebly, WordPress, or Pressfolios. I think they are all great!

    Sample content includes work samples, handouts from experiences, case studies from MNT, a video of you giving a presentation, research papers, resume, pictures from adventures, a goals statement, about-type intro about you and your journey, links to social media if appropriate, and link to a LinkedIn profile.

    As with everything in your application, you want to know how to sell yourself with an e-portfolio. When I am reviewing the e-portfolios of my clients (or training coaches on how to do this with their’s), these are the three areas I review:

    Visual Appearance

    Yes, you will be judged on how nice your portfolio looks. Here are some things to make sure you are doing visually.

    • Fonts are the same on every page.
    • You follow the sample “template” on each page (header, sub-header, text).
    • Include pictures from a variety of experiences.
    • Pictures are high-quality.
    • Logos (like for experiences) are high-quality.
    • Links look clean, and files are appropriately hyperlinked.

    Organization

    When organizing the different types of content, it needs to be obvious where to find something. Each category should make sense and be well thought out.

    • Page sections are separated enough, but not too much (5-7 teams are excellent).
    • It is easy to navigate the menu.
    • Paragraphs are easy to read, and pages are skimmable.
    • Separate large chunks of text with headers included when needed.

    Grammar

    Of course, grammar is essential here! DUH! My favorite grammar pointers (ha) are below.

    • Write picture captions in complete sentences.
    • Talk in the first person always.
    • Watch for mixing phrases with sentences. Always use complete sentences.

    Here are sample e-portfolios that were shared recently on the All Access Internships Facebook group. They should provide much inspiration, but be sure to critique your portfolio in the three areas above.

    P.S. Once your e-portfolio is complete, get a portfolio review and more from one of our coaches through getting Matched Coaching!  

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  • Dietetics Programs

    Don’t Make These Common DICAS Mistakes

    DICAS applications can be tricky and full of mistakes. Follow our guidelines so you can submit your best application and land the DI of your dreams.

    It’s getting real now. It is time to dominate DICAS…

    It’s Week 5 (of 6) of the DICAS Challenge!

    HERE IS THE DICAS CHALLENGE CALENDAR

    Today- Supplemental Forms

    Complete any additional paperwork such as a different essay, preceptor agreements, application agreement from the program, or a link to your portfolio. These are either mailed, or we will upload these when completing the Program Designations section of DICAS. The program’s website will tell you exactly how to handle these.

    Then, write and send checks with a form (depending on the program) or a cover letter. Include a cover letter if no other materials are required. Note that some programs allow you to pay online.

    Here is a sample cover letter for when you are sending application fees.

    If you are nervous that your fees will not get there, you can send by priority mail and get tracking to ensure they received it. Otherwise, set a reminder to check your bank account and see when the check is cashed.

    You do not need to wait to send these—send them ASAP, assuming you are applying there! You don’t have to wait until you e-submit.

    Saturday- Program Designations

    In the Program Designation section, add each program by searching the database and finding the right program to add to your portal. If you need to apply to one program because of an early deadline, only add one program. You can go back and add others later.

    Within the program designations section, for each program, there is a spot for: 

    • Supplemental Info 
    • Add/Edit Personal Statement 
    • Add/Edit References

    For Supplemental Info, you will upload any additional requirements that the program is asking for. You mustn’t add anything that was not explicitly requested. For example, I know some applicants who sent photos, sample recipes, and more, even though this was not a part of the application process. It is best only to give them what they ask for. Otherwise, it will look like you are not following instructions.

    For Add/Edit Personal Statement, assign the corresponding personal statement. Because you named them with the program name as you were adding them, this should be pretty simple!

    For Add/Edit References, for each program, assign the references according to your reference game plan and the program’s requirements. Remember that you can use up to 4 but only assign the requested ones by the program. Many applicants will ask if they should do a 4th one just for “extra” help, but I think directors can misinterpret that as not following directions, so I don’t suggest you do that.

    Sunday- DICAS completed!

    By Sunday, DICAS should be complete, but don’t e-submit yet!

    With no distractions, meticulously review your DICAS application online. Then, print out the formatted version of the application (found under Program Designations) and view this form. Just by changing the landscape and format, your eyeballs may catch errors they didn’t see before!

    As you start to fill out DICAS, use this checklist to avoid the common mistakes: 

    FINAL DICAS CHECKLIST

    If you have questions, schedule your free call with Jenny!

    Jenny

    P.S. ARE YOU IN YET? Join Get Matched Coaching for personalized advice that will help you gain confidence and clarity to land the dietetic internship of your dreams!

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  • Dietetics Programs

    What Should My References Put in the Weakness Section?

    The DICAS dietetic internship program application requires your references to address your weaknesses. What should you add? Read below!

    I was asked a great question this week about helping your reference answer the DICAS application question about weaknesses or areas of improvement. My advice is below, but in general you want to take the same approach as in your personal statement, which is to focus on how you are CURRENTLY improving something and have a positive spin on it. More on that in a minute….

    First, make sure you read my post The Fool-Proof Ways to Decide on Your Best References!

    The second question is to comment on the areas that the applicant can improve on. This is definitely trickier to address, so I will do so now!

    Think of something you improved throughout your time as a student and are continuing to work on.

    It is a similar approach to the personal statement. You will want these to be different from what you used in your own personal statement and also be different for each reference you send this information to. If you and all 3 of your references said you had the same weakness, I’d probably think it was a big issue!

    Avoid actual skills that directors are looking for.

    Don’t say you are working on leadership, team work, communication, etc. Rather, think more in terms of professional development like public speaking, learning a language, confidence (we can ALWAYS be more confident), gaining more experience in your area of interest, seeking out mentorship, getting even more involved in dietetics groups. It is focused more on your GROWTH than on your SHORTCOMINGS 🙂

    Keep it short and positive.

    Reread it and ask yourself if there is anything that makes it sound more negative than it needs to be? Can you delete any random detail? Are you SHOWING how you are improving with an example or evidence?

    Some examples….

    For your professors, usually the weaknesses I suggest have nothing to do with the class, but more on a professional growth level based on conversations they have had with you outside classes.

    Example – Jenny is currently working on getting more involved in professional dietetics groups related to her area of interest. While she has attended some local meetings as a member, she is planning to find a student leadership role in Oncology Nutrition dietetic practice group to prepare for her career as an oncology dietitian.

    For your supervisor, this can be more work related so something that you have already improved on (like your confidence in applying the knowledge you learned) and then say how you are going to continue to gain more confidence.

    Example – Compared to when Jenny started as a volunteer, her confidence in her decisions has improved tremendously. That said, I see her continuing to trust in herself and the application of her knowledge in the dietetic internship.

    Final Note

    The, “area of improvement,” answer can be super short. There isn’t a minimum number of words needed. The same goes for the, “what are strengths and weaknesses,” area. It is super silly that they even word it like this (sorry DICAS, I still love ya!) I always tell references just to focus on strengths for the first and then a real quick “area to improve” for the second question 🙂 My guess (I truly don’t know) is that DICAS keeps the first question open-ended to welcome anything negative the reference wants to share, but really your hope is that the reference should be overwhelmingly positive.

    Hope that helps!
    Jenny

    P.S. Schedule your free call with Jenny today to discuss your background, address any of your concerns, and decide on the next steps for your dietitian journey!

    CONTINUE READING

  • Dietetics Programs

    The Fool-Proof Ways to Decide on Your Best References

    Choosing references for your dietetic internship program application is vital in securing a spot! Here are our tips on deciding your best references.

    REFERENCES! I’ve been a reference every year since I have been a dietitian, so here are the components to the reference:

    1. I get a link from DICAS (once the applicant fills out my contact info).
    2. I click on the link that takes me to the online reference form.
    3. I fill out questions on how I know the applicant.
    4. I rate the applicant on a variety of skills and knowledge.
    5. I write their strengths and weaknesses in a text box (like a typical reference letter).
    6. I wrote what they are working on improving (that I usually keep very brief).

    Sign up for the free DICAS Starter Pack to learn how to get excellent references for your dietetic internship application.

    Below are my top 4 tips of what you need to know about choosing references:

    Email Potential References

    Make a list of 3-5 potential references and send them professional, tailored emails. Ask them specifically if they can write you a positive reference. If not, that is okay! You do not want someone to write you a reference if it isn’t going to be amazing.

    Enter Reference Information into DICAS

    After they agree to write a positive reference for you, complete the section under Additional Information (“References”).

    Create your Reference Plan

    For each program, assign the three references that you will use. You can mix and match for each program if you’d like. For example, you might use a food service supervisor for a food service DI and a clinical supervisor for a clinical DI. Be sure to check the program’s requirements to make sure you are giving them what they are asking for. If not, then email the director and see if your reference plan is acceptable to them.

    Follow Up with Background Information

    Read Jenny’s Best DICAS Reference Advice!

    P.S. References can make or break your application. Enroll in getting Matched Coaching to learn the strategies that helped 98% of clients match in 2019.

    CONTINUE READING

  • Dietetics Programs

    Tackle Your Transcripts Like a Champ

    Adding your transcripts to your DICAS application is essential so you can participate in dietetic internship matching process. Follow our advice below for success!

    Inputting your transcripts into your DICAS dietetic internship program application can be tricky. Let’s focus on the main steps to accomplish adding your transcript below.

    Complete the “Colleges Attended” section

    Input all colleges and universities in this section. This includes all colleges and universities where you took a course, even if no DPD courses were taken there. This includes community colleges and any past degrees.

    Print transcript orders

    Transcript orders are populated with your information and are already completed. You have to sign them!

    Place transcript orders

    Send these forms (by mail, email, or in-person) to your registrar so they can mail the official transcripts to the DICAS office.  You can send them electronically, too- use this link to check if your college participates. And… if your school does participate, please follow this link!

    Some applicants have been known to forget transcripts (you need them from ALL colleges and universities attended). Do not order them too late (give yourself a month or more). Don’t let this happen to you!

    Do you or someone you know have a transcript horror story? Let us know in the comments below!

    P.S. ARE YOU IN? Join Get Matched Coaching for personalized advice to help you land the dietetic internship of your dreams!

    CONTINUE READING

  • Dietetics Programs

    Do You Have Enough Dietetics Experience?

    Gaining dietetics experience helps an internship director know how prepared you are for an internship and a career as an RD. How much is enough?

    I want to talk about my dietetics experience. The whole point of getting dietetics experience is because internship directors want to know how prepared you are for an internship and a future career in dietetics. What better way to prepare for clinical rotations than to volunteer or work in a clinical setting, am I right!?

    While exposing yourself to these areas, you’ll also start to figure out your interests. These can change later, but it is wise to begin your career exploration sooner rather than later. Plus, it could lead to a job later on because of the connections you made!

    But you might be thinking, “Jenny, if I do any more things, I’ll pass out from exhaustion!” Oh, man! That gives me flashbacks to my senior year fall semester when I was doing five different outside-the-classroom activities, trying to squeeze in as much as possible before applying. At one point, I did pass out (fall asleep) in the halls of the nutrition department. It’s tough, people. But it’s worth it.

    Here’s one pro tip for getting more experience: do it virtually! Hashtag efficiency. Doing a virtual internship with a dietitian is flexible and doesn’t require as many hours. This shouldn’t replace on-site experience, but it can be in addition to that.

    Awesome dietitians email me all the time asking to spread the word about their virtual internships (and some are on-site, too). So, we have these opportunities shown in the blog.

    On that note…

    A common question I get is about what type of experience is best. First, the higher your level of responsibility, the better. This means that being a paid employee is better than being a volunteer, which is better than being a shadow (zero obligation, you sit there!). While any experience is good, if you are faced with deciding the opportunities to pursue, that is my thought process for you. If you’re unsure where to begin, check out Volunteer Match for volunteering opportunities near you.

    Then, it is essential to have a variety of experiences, but the 3 I like to talk about in the personal statement are:

    Foundational

    The most dietetics-y experience you have, ideally in a clinical setting.

    Leadership

    Something where you led a group or showed leadership in a job.

    Also dietetics-y, but related to the area you have goals in. Think big!

    PS. Go out there and get experience. And then when it comes time to apply, work with a coach to make sure you SELL IT!

    CONTINUE READING

  • Dietetics Programs

    The Dietetic Internship Application Checklist

    Time is flying by! How is it almost December?!

    I have a few courses and coaching clients this year that are SO ahead of the game. Their statements are made, their references have been asked, their DICAS information is organized and ready to be input once DICAS officially opens next week. *jaw drops*

    It is inspiring because when I was applying, and by the way, it was mailed-in applications in the pre-DICAS era, I was at the post office on February 15, 5 minutes before it closed. I asked the post office worker to watch him physically postmark my applications with February 15, so I knew for sure they would be considered “on-time.” I then celebrated with an Oreo milkshake from Potbelly’s, and it was glorious. But I was not recommended.

    The point of this update is to give you a little push to get going on your applications. You don’t want to wait until the last minute on these- I promise. And to be honest, there isn’t much stopping you from getting about 90% of these babies done. For some of you in your final semester, before applying, you might be waiting on your final grades for this semester and your transcripts. I also know that you might have exams and finals. I get it! But I am just planting the seed here. It won’t be the last time I tell you to GIDDY UP!

    Now, since you’re a dietetics major, you LOVE checklists. Duh! I included one below that will help you get organized for the chaos that is the application process. The sooner you look at this checklist, the sooner you can start checking things off of it!

    Application Things to Do

    • Determine GPAs
    • Find Preceptors
    • Do Program Research
    • Communicate with Directors
    • Schedule & Attend Visits/Open Houses
    • Take GRE (optional)
    • Create a DICAS Account
    • Complete DPD Program Information
    • Order Transcripts
    • Complete Educational Information
    • Complete References Process
    • Complete Graduate School Applications (optional)
    • Finalize Resume (Coaching clients: with your coach)
    • Finalize Personal Statement (Coaching clients: with your coach)
    • Write Additional Personal Statement Versions
    • Complete Supplemental Materials & Fees
    • Complete Additional Information (Enter Experience into DICAS)
    • Designate Programs
    • Do a full DICAS Review (Coaching clients: with your coach)
    • Complete Online Portfolio (optional)
    • Complete D&D Computer Matching
    • E-Submit Application
    • Interview Prep (Coaching clients: with your coach)
    • Back up Plan Prep
    • Second Round Preparation (if needed)
    • ISPP Applications (if required)

    Remember, the early bird stays calm and focused, while the late bird FREAKS THE HECK OUT.

    What bird do you want to be?

    Tweet tweet!

    Jenny

    Do you want extra personalization throughout your application journey? Get Matched Coaching helps you gain confidence and clarity so you can land the dietetic internship of your dreams!

    CONTINUE READING

  • Dietetics Programs, Featured

    Here’s What You Need to Know About GPA and Dietetic Internships

    Knowing the different types of GPAs will help you see what programs you will be competitive for. Here is everything you need to know about your GPA!

    Hello. It’s me. Again. 🙂

    There isn’t a perfect time to talk about GPA, so I figured the sooner, the better. Plus, from experience, I correct many students who think they understand the whole GPA story but don’t.

    Click here to take your application to the next level with free resources and exclusive advice from Jenny!

    First, there are a few different types of GPA.

    • Overall: This is based on all classes, from all colleges, EVER.
    • DPD: This is based on ONLY the courses on your DPD Course List Form that you get from your director. This form needs to have the DICAS logo at the top… that is how you know it is the proper form.
    • DPD Professional: This is based on the DPD courses classified as Professional on your DPD Course List Form.
    • DPD Science: This is based on the DPD courses classified as Science on your DPD Course List Form.

    These are the GPAs that you would want to determine, and if you have some courses in progress right now that will be done before you apply, you can at least “guess” what your grades will be and what your final application GPAs will be.

    Then, add your courses to DICAS…

    In DICAS, you can enter your DPD courses and grades in the Coursework section. If you need help, watch the DICAS Tutorial found on Members Only’s DI Application Resources page. Add in your “guesses,” too, if you can. Then, you can click on the GPA Calculations link in your DICAS dashboard to see the numbers.

    You have your GPAs calculated. Now what?

    GPA makes a lot of people nervous, especially for those with a pretty average value. It could always be higher, couldn’t it? Well, the cold, hard truth is that you can’t do much about it. It is what it is. But let’s not make the situation worse by mishandling what you are working with. Here are my two most prominent thoughts on GPA:

    I rarely think it is necessary to talk about GPA in the personal statement.

    Usually, I only make an exception if I want my client to show a considerable improvement in GPA later on in college or if there is some untold story that needs an explanation (like a death or illness or disability of some kind…not that you couldn’t figure out how to study or didn’t have time management.). You control what you say in that personal statement, and keeping it positive and confident is key! To say in your statement that your weakness is a GPA of 3.4 would be a terrible idea. (Sorry, that is harsh, but it is still a terrible idea.)

    I suggest you look at the average GPA of current interns in The Applicant Guide to Supervised Practice.

    This guide can be found here. This number will be more telling of the caliber of applicants that match their program. I’ve seen many programs with a 2.75 overall GPA requirement and an average GPA of current interns as of 3.75. AH! If this number isn’t in the guide, then definitely ask the program director, so you know if you are genuinely competitive there.

    Alright, the GPA talk is finally over. I feel better getting this off my chest 🙂

    Until next time!
    Jenny

    P.S. Are you applying to the dietetic internship of your dream? Join the Get Matched Course to learn our proven strategies to become a match-worthy applicant!

    CONTINUE READING

  • Dietetics Programs

    How to Research Dietetic Internships

    Ready to talk dietetic internships!? Let’s first be clear that dietetic internships are more the same than they are different. There’s the minimum 1200 hour requirement, the standard rotations in clinical, food service, and community, and usually some coursework or project requirement throughout. All interns must meet the same competencies, no matter the program.

    Click here to take your application to the next level with free resources and exclusive advice from Jenny!

    The “flavor” comes with the rotation sites, the breakdown of hours in each common area, elective options, concentrations, and other fun variables. You’ll start to notice the similarities and differences as you browse program websites.

    So, when it comes to figuring out your perfect dietetic internship, you want first to be informed of your options. Even if you know you have to stay in a particular state, I still think that understanding the unique parts of your state’s programs, when compared with those across the country, will help you in the long run.

    When you write your personal statement, you’ll want to add why you like the program. It will be easier to know why this program is different from others, and you’ll avoid saying something silly like how you love that there are various rotations (because ALL programs have that…). Seriously, the more research, the better.

    So to start, the goal is to create your potential DI list of about 5-10 programs and then start reaching out to directors and interns from the program to narrow it down. Many people ask how many to apply to, and my magic number is 4. More on that in a future member update…

    Here are some things to get this DI research PARTY started:

    NEW! APPLICANT GUIDE TO SUPERVISED PRACTICE
    They recently updated this, so make sure you get the most current version. I keep seeing new programs getting added each year…so amazing!!


    If you have a low GPA, look for programs that have lower requirements. Look specifically at the average GPA of current interns. That is more telling of your chances there. They may have a 2.75 GPA requirement, but if the interns they take have a 3.5 average, then SEE YA!

    PS. Note that there are ISPPs on this list. You are only eligible for ISPPs if you have already applied and have not received a match.

    Party on!
    Jenny

    CONTINUE READING

  • Dietetics Programs, How to Become a Dietitian

    Improve Your Resume Over the Summer

    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.

    Start your journey to a happy Match Day today! Schedule your intro call here.

    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.

    Have you thought about volunteering for the American Diabetes Association? Or the Jimmy Fund? Use VolunteerMatch.org to find other volunteer opportunities that will help your resume stand out.

    Get a Summer Internship

    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:

    Edit 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!

    CONTINUE READING

  • Featured, Student Life

    Staying Professional This Summer

    While summer may have been a time to relax from ages 5 through 18, it now means something different as a nutrition and dietetics student.

    Time to say goodbye to 3 months of pool party freedom and hello to building your resume, your brand, and most importantly: yourself. I know what you’re thinking; I’ve worked all year long and deserve a break! And to that, I say, of course, you do. But I believe this summer, you will kick back and relax while also driving it into high gear, RD2BE style. Here are a few of my tips for staying professional this summer.

    1. Create an online portfolio.

    If you haven’t already designed your online space, now is the time to do so! Your online portfolio is only as involved and prepared as you want it to be. Make sure to give yourself time to make it great.

    2. Volunteer.

    Chances are, there are people in need right around the corner from you. Whether you devote your time to an organization such as a soup kitchen, church group, or your old high school, or you, decide to take on more personal projects by helping out your elderly neighbor, make sure to lend a helping hand. Not only does this help your resume, but it creates a more well-rounded and experienced version of yourself. Who doesn’t want that!?

    3. Read a book.

    It doesn’t have to be a nutrition-related book. Maybe it’s that hip romance novel everyone is reading, a classic, or your old favorite. Pick up a paper book and put down your screen. You spend enough time working for a screen during the school year to last a lifetime!

    4. Listen to a podcast.

    My favorite way of doing this is to slip on my tennis shoes, put in my earbuds, and head out for a walk as my favorite podcast fills my ears. It’s relaxing and informative, and I believe we all need to get out of our headspace for a little while.

    5. Clean up your social media.

    I get it; we all have fun. Although, my idea of fun might be reading a good book and enjoying some sweet tea. But whatever your idea of fun is, make sure it remains respectable on the internet. Everyone can see your adventures as they’re posted online, so make sure you’re posting things your Mom wouldn’t mind seeing.

    6. Work.

    Ugh- boring, I know. But the good thing about working over the summer is saving money. And that’s something we all need to do! Think of it as an investment in your future dietetic internship (and maybe for that purse you’ve been eyeing all year).

    7. Do your research.

    Maybe your next step is beginning a DPD program, heading off to your dietetic internship, or even applying to graduate schools. Whatever place you’re born to in the fall, make sure to spend some time doing your research for it this summer. Being prepared is the best way to ease into the school year and maintain positive energy.

    8. Have fun!

    Maybe summer doesn’t have the same meaning as it did when you were younger, but summer can still be as memorable as you want it to be. Travel and see friends, drive with the windows down and your favorite song blasting, and take more than enough pictures. Being relaxed can lead to creativity and relaxation, so let yourself feel a bit free!

    Some people love summer, and few people hate it. But wherever you stand on the debate, make sure to spend your summer wisely. Your career will thank you for it! Most importantly, enjoy another summer with good food, good people, and good memories.

    P.S. ARE YOU IN YET? Schedule your free call with Jenny today to discuss your background, address any of your concerns, and decide on the next step for your dietitian journey!

    CONTINUE READING

  • RD2Be Fun

    Jenny’s 4 Life-Changing Books to Read

    Readers are leaders! That is what my mother would tell me over and over as I was growing up. While she was pretty aware of the benefits of reading for children, I can’t help but think she also hoped my five brothers and I would read to get some peace in the house. Regardless, I thank her for the many trips to the library growing up!

    As an adult, I’ve always been into self-improvement books. If I wanted happiness, success, or purpose in my life, I knew it would be an inside job. Four books truly changed my life, not because they taught me new information in business or nutrition, but because they taught me how to change my thoughts, attitude, confidence, surroundings, support system, and goals.

    I am sharing the four books you should read if you want to change your life 😉 (That doesn’t sound very nice, but it is true!)

    THE SUCCESS PRINCIPLES by Jack Canfield 

    I read this book right before I started All Access Dietetics (formerly All Access Internships) back when I was 21. I will never forget how I felt while reading it. “LIKE OMG. THIS IS AMAZING. I’M GOING TO DO EVERYTHING JACK SAYS. JACK IS THE BEST. WATCH OUT, WORLD, BECAUSE I AM A NEW PERSON!”

    This book has over 60 principles that you can apply to your life. I’ll find myself re-reading various chapters of this book multiple times throughout the year.

    Quick story time…In 2012, Jack Canfield was the keynote speaker at FNCE in San Diego. I sat in the front row and made a sign with my friends “WWJCD,” meaning “What would Jack Canfield do?” It was our mantra for our mastermind group that Jack inspired us to create. Anyways, when Jack asked the audience who wanted the book in his hands, I sprinted to him and grabbed the book. He then explained that this was an example of a success principle he mentioned in his book; if you want something, you have to go and GRAB IT! Awesome, right?! After his presentation, I was able to meet him and get my book signed. It was a dream come true!

    YOU ARE A BADASS by Jen Sincero 

    Before reading this book, I pondered questions like…what is my life?! Am I that great?! Am I doing the right things?! And Jen slowly but surely guided me to realize that yes, I am a badass, and you are too. The sooner you believe it, the better.

    BONUS: She released another book called YOU ARE A BADASS AT MAKING MONEY, and I listened to it (because I’m all about audiobooks now). It is freakin’ good and an excellent follow-up once you officially realize you are a badass.

    THE LIFE-CHANGING MAGIC OF TIDYING UP by Maria Kondo

    I’ve always erred on the side of minimalism in my life. It may have been because I grew up in a big family (6 kids), and we didn’t have the space for a lot of clutter. I remember when I was in college and moved into my dorm. I had about half the belongings as my friends, but I was still able to function in life. Their possessions stressed me out. The fact that they had to fold or hang up that many clothes gave me the shivers.

    So when THE LIFE-CHANGING MAGIC OF TIDYING became a viral sensation, I was not surprised. There is the freedom to minimize the material and focus on quality (what “sparks joy,” as Marie says) over quantity.

    Marie gave me the exact instructions for changing my environment and tidying up my space (for good!), and it secretly led me to apply the question of “what sparks joy?” to other areas of my life, like my social job circle, and more. She says at the very end of the book something to the effect of “don’t be surprised if you want to change more than your home.” You are both sneaky and clever, Marie. I LIKE IT.

    THE BIG LEAP by Gay Hendricks

    This book was the slap in the face I needed at the exact time I needed it. Now you might be wondering, “who wants to be slapped in the face?” and I am here to tell you that everyone needs it! Gay Hendricks was a life coach who knows what is best for you and understands why you aren’t getting it. He reveals this excellent concept called the Upper Limit problem, which is your way of reverting to your old habits or having something always stop you from REALLY breaking through to the other side, where your highest levels of happiness, love, and abundance exist.

    Before deciding to leave a full-time job, I read this book right and took THE BIG LEAP to do All Access Dietetics full-time. Once I did that, amazing things started to happen, and everything worked out (even the income that, at the time of the “leap,” I had no clue how I would make).

    So there you have it! If you have any other suggestions, I would love to hear them!

    PS. We love sharing our favorite resources with you! Make sure to check out our website for more life-changing materials. 

    CONTINUE READING

  • RD2Be Fun

    The Craziest Nutrition Advice Found on Reddit

    Reddit often goes one step further from the typical Google degree in nutrition. But is this advice fact or myth? Jenny Westerkamp, RD, CSSD, breaks it down.

    Nothing like the Internet for reliable nutrition information 😉 I scoured Reddit for some uh, exciting nutrition advice and picked some of the most “unique.” Read on to find out the truth on some of these crazy myths!

    1. Reddit: “Eating protein the 1st thing in the morning before anything else will help you absorb it more and reset leptin levels.”

    Truth: Eating protein in the morning is a great way to stay packed, but it won’t help you “absorb” it better if you eat it first thing in the morning. However, eating a protein of high biological value (aka “complete protein”) will help you get all of the amino acids your body doesn’t produce and pack a bigger punch than a protein source of low B.V. As for leptin, this essential hormone is mainly regulated by fatty tissue. It is not influenced by immediate protein consumption in the AM (or any time of day, for that matter).

    2. Reddit: “Skipping breakfast then eating high-carb foods for lunch leads to diabetes because the glucose shocks your system.”

    Truth: Science has shown many benefits to eating breakfast, but skipping it will not result in diabetes. Diabetes, assuming they are talking about type 2, is a multifactorial disease, and skipping breakfast now and again and eating carbs won’t cause it. However, eating breakfast full of healthy carbs, such as fiber, will keep you full and focused throughout the day.

    3. Reddit: “Lemon-cucumber-infused water will detox you.”

    Truth: Your liver and kidneys are pros at the whole detoxing business. Lemon and cucumbers might taste good, but they won’t have any “detox” effect.

    4. Reddit: “Your bones can regulate your appetite.”

    Truth: Maybe they’re thinking of hydroxyapatite? That’s the mineral that makes up your teeth and bones. However, your bones have nothing to do with your appetite!

    5. Reddit: “You can remove fat from ground beef by rinsing it with water.”

    Truth: Rinsing your meat with water won’t reduce the fat content, but you might spread nasty germs. Try buying leaner ground beef (at least 88% lean) or wait until it cooks and pour the grease off instead.

    What’s the craziest nutrition advice you’ve ever heard? Sound off!

    P.S. Do you want the FREE DI Toolkit used by thousands of DI applicants? YES PLEASE

    CONTINUE READING

  • Dietitian Career Advice, Student Life

    How to Keep Learning Post-College

    If you’re looking for a way to expand your horizons after you step out of the classroom, read this list!

    So you finally got your Bachelor’s degree….now what?! If you’ve ever had that thought, you aren’t alone. Many people can agree that you never stop learning, and that’s particularly true in the ever-changing dietetics field with the variety of continuing education opportunities available. Luckily, you can continue lifelong learning in many ways!

    1. Master’s Degrees

    Master’s degrees are a common way that many RD’s, or those in the nutrition field, further their education. Besides, all new RD’s will have a Master’s starting in 2024, so why not get ahead of the game? Many Master’s programs are more in-depth and specific to a particular subject in comparison to Bachelor’s programs- so this is your chance to delve into a topic you love. Many RD’s earn their MPH (Master’s of Public Health), MBA (Master’s of Business Administration), or Master’s of Science (MS). Find a Master’s program located near you here.

    2. Ph.D. or Doctorate Degrees

    A Ph.D. or Doctorate is the highest level of education you can achieve, and it will set you apart from the rest. Only around 5% of RD’s have their Ph.D., and most are found in the educational or research setting. These degrees are typically grounded in research and take around 3-5 years to complete. A doctorate, such as a Doctorate of Clinical Nutrition, is equal to a Ph.D. but is typically for established professionals who want to increase their expertise in their field.

    3. Coursera

    Don’t want to commit to an academic program but still want to take some classes? Check out Coursera, a website that lets you take courses online from renowned universities. There are hundreds of courses available from an endless amount of topics. The best part? You don’t have any homework 😉

    4. Certifications

    Are you already an RD and looking to specialize in a certain area and gain expertise? There’s probably a certification for you! The Commission on Dietetic Registration currently has seven options for certification. You can become a board-certified specialist in:

    • Nutrition Support (CNSC)
    • Oncology Nutrition (CSO)
    • Sports Dietetics (CSSD)
    • Pediatric Nutrition (CSP)
    • Renal Nutrition (CSR)
    • Gerontological Nutrition (CSG)
    • Obesity and Weight Management (CSOWM)

    These certifications are earned after working as an RD for three years, having worked at least 4000 hours in the area of your desired specialty, and passing the board certification exam. Another specialty certification is the Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. Information can be found here. In addition to boosting your earning potential and making you more marketable to employers, you will also gain expertise in the field and add to your skills as an RD.

    5. Keeping Up with Research

    What better way to keep up with the field than by reading the latest research? Stay on top of what is happening in the world of nutrition by being aware of current news. As nutrition students and professionals, we are constantly reminded of how vital evidence-based research is. And besides, it will come in handy when your Dr. Oz-loving friend asks you about that new crazy trend.

    6. CEUs

    CEU’s, or continuing education units, require all RD’s to maintain their credentialing. CEU’s are offered through attending conferences, local symposiums, or even through taking certified online programs. You never know what you will learn!

    7. Teach

    Many have often said that the best way to learn something is to teach it to someone else. This is so true! If you are still a student, see if you can become a teaching assistant or volunteer in the tutoring center. If you are an RD, scope out opportunities by teaching a class where you work or at a local school or hospital.

    What is your favorite thing to learn about? Sound off in the comments!

    P.S. Are you a new Registered Dietitian searching for your first job? Join Get Hired Coaching to land the position of your dreams!

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  • Student Life

    How to Deal with Google Degrees

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    As a Registered Dietitian, you may encounter people who have gotten their knowledge from Google. Here are our keys to show your expertise!

    The nutrition world is filled with self-proclaimed experts who get most of their information off of the frequently used and often unreliable World Wide Web. As all of us know, the most reliable source of dietary advice is from a Registered Dietitian, who completes a rigorous academic program and over 1000 hours of supervised practice before being able to call themselves experts in the field. Although it’s great that these so-called Google Degrees are so interested in nutrition, we all know that there is a lot of misinformation on the internet, especially about food. So what do you do when you find yourself talking to someone who quotes unreliable or false information? Whether this happens on Facebook or in real life, here’s how to deal.

    1. Disagree politely

    There’s nothing wrong with disagreeing, as long as you do it politely. Make sure you avoid negative language, name-calling, or Facebook fighting, but don’t be afraid to stand up for your field.

    2. Have research ready

    There’s nothing like a little bit (or a lot) of evidence-based research to support your argument against a food fallacy. Staying on top of current research will keep you updated on the latest in the field. A quick tip: find up-to-date research in nutrition using the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Evidence Analysis Library. There’s nothing like facts to squash a fad.

    3. Be confident

    You are on your way to becoming a nutrition expert, so don’t be afraid to show it off. Be confident in your knowledge because you worked hard for it. Besides, you’re only doing them a favor!

    What’s the craziest thing about nutrition you’ve ever heard someone say? Sound off in the comments!

    P.S. – Mine was when someone tried to convince me that she didn’t eat carbs because her body had a carbohydrate intolerance and stored all carbs as fat. It looks like those micronutrient metabolism classes paid off 😉

    P.P.S. ARE YOU IN YET? With Get Matched Coaching, you’ll gain the confidence and clarity you need to get a dietetic internship! 

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  • Dietetics Programs, Dietitian Career Advice

    The Ultimate Back Up Plan if You Don’t Get Matched

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    “Registered Dietitian.” That is the goal. We go through the rigorous undergraduate program, wash pots and pans in a hospital kitchen, volunteer every spare moment we can, and perfect our statements until we recite them by heart. Then, we wait… and it just isn’t in the cards this year for some of us. You didn’t match. BUT IT’S NOT OVER. There are distinctive opportunities to capitalize on that will allow you to persevere, grow, and better yourself as an applicant next year. Hey, you may even make some money while you’re at it! We have compiled a list of prospects to serve as your “Plan B” until you achieve your “Plan A!”

    1. Dietetics, 4-year degree

    • Eligible to become a Diet Technician, Registered (DTR)- A DTR works with the dietitian to design menus, prepare meals, formulate nutrition information, involve yourself in patient-centered care, order food, and manage budgets. DTR’s can work in schools, hospitals, prisons, and nursing homes.
    *Must pass the credentialing exam.
    • Eligible to become a Certified Dietary Manager- A CDM runs the operations of a food service establishment (i.e., hospital, nursing home, school, etc.). The CDM will do all scheduling, payroll, hiring, and performance management.

     2. Fitness Specializations 

    • Certified Personal Trainer- Accredited through the National Athletic Trainers Association.
    • Certified Personal Trainer- Accredited through the National Academy of Sports Medicine or American College of Sports Medicine.
    • Personal Trainer/Group Fitness- Accredited through the National Association for Fitness Certification.
    • Group Exercise Instructor- Accredited through the American College of Sports Medicine.
    • With a fitness specialization, you may work in hospital or rehab clinics, fitness centers, and grade school athletics.

    3. WIC 

    WIC Nutritionist- Responsible for providing WIC Registration Assessment and counseling staff of the WIC program. Also responsible for nutrition education for individuals and groups.

    4. Master’s Degree

    There are many options for continued education in the field of nutrition. The most common opportunities include Master of Science (MS) or Master of Public Health and doctoral degrees.

    5. ISPP or Future Education Model

    • ISPP is the alternative pathway to obtain a dietetic internship, similar to a distance program.
    • Future Education Model is a supervised practice program with a graduate component preparing for the 2024 graduate requirement.

    Must have graduated from a DPD program and have a DPD verification statement. To be eligible for an ISPP, you must not have matched on your first attempt.

    6. Health Promotion 

    • Health educators can work for health departments, schools, and community or non-profit organizations.
    • Careers include Health Coordinator, Nutrition Specialist, and Fitness Instructor.

    7. Dietary Aide

    • The Dietary Aide job details vary depending on the facility type. Dietary Aides are commonly hired at nursing homes and hospitals.
    • This job usually entails preparing and understanding therapeutic diets as indicated in the menu, appropriately interacting with patients/residents, and other facility policies.
    • Oh… and you will more than likely rock an awesome hairnet. Woohoo!

    Keep going. Keep growing. Never give up. There isn’t just one way to become a dietitian. Find the path that fits YOU and take on your goals!

    P.S. Almost 50% of Get Matched Coaching clients are repeat applicants. Give yourself the most excellent chance of having a happy Match Day by investing in yourself and your future.

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