dietetic internship programs

  • What I Learned At My First Nutrition Conference

    Attending your first nutrition and dietetics conference is an important and exciting step in becoming a Registered Dietitian.

    I remember it well- the nervousness, intimidation, and the restless night before. I spent hours picking out the perfect outfit, double-checking my purse for a notepad, and packing two pens. Most importantly, I remember stepping in the doors and attending my first nutrition conference. This experience provided some critical takeaways. 

    R.D’s love food- a lot

    This may seem obvious, but it sunk in the first hour of my conference. While I was too nervous to eat breakfast, R.D’s around me strolled in with coffee, homemade smoothies, and snacks. I expected a stuffy room of strict professionals, but most attendees enjoyed a snack or beverage throughout the day.

    You will hear excellent presentations…

    Sometimes, it can feel like you are all alone in your homework and textbooks. But when you finally sit in a room of like-minded, passionate individuals, you will be reminded differently. You will engage in presentations about things you didn’t realize were a part of the nutrition and dietetics scope. You will hear presentations that inspire you, terrify you, and validate your passion for this field.

    … And some not-so-great presentations, too

    Not everyone is a performer. Just like your food science presentations in class, some dietitians aren’t great presenters. Regardless, hearing imperfect presentations may help you feel a little less intimidated at a big event like a nutrition conference. This reminds you that RDs are people, too, just like you.

    Dietitians love to mingle.

    While presentations are a large part of a nutrition conference, socializing is, too. Dietitians live for small breaks throughout the day to get to know each other more. While some of the attendees may be your professors or classmates, others may be gathering research about lentils or working with eating disorder patients. Whatever the case may be, you will meet a variety of R.D’s who do just about everything. When you find someone who stands out to you, make sure to make a lasting impression. You never know where mingling with a few R.D.N.s will take you!

    You may feel overwhelmed.

    During and after my first nutrition conference, I felt a lot of confusion. I was confused not only about the content of some presentations but about myself, too. Connecting with R.D’s taught me that nutrition is a wide-open field. Finding your population, role, and niche in nutrition takes time, which many students haven’t quite figured out. By attending conferences, you are one step closer to learning what your place is.

    My first nutrition conference exhausted me. I was physically tired from being nervous about the little things like my hair and outfit. But mentally, my first nutrition conference excited me. It inspired me to head back to my classrooms and study harder, gain external experience through research and volunteering, and ultimately communicate with those all around me and connect over a passion for this field. Your first nutrition conference will be something you will never forget, and I know it will be an experience to push you forward.

    P.S. What was your first nutrition conference? If you haven’t attended one, check out FNCE for a great place to start!

    P.P.S. Are you applying to dietetic internships? Join the Get Matched Course to find clarity and confidence in your application and land the dietetic internship of your dream! 

    CONTINUE READING

  • Advice from Dietitians to Future Dietitians

    Becoming a Registered Dietitian certainly isn’t easy. We’ve compiled advice from dietitians for nutrition students, dietetic interns, and all future RD’s.

    We all have a clear recollection of why we wanted to get into the nutrition field and become registered dietitians.  Some of those reasons are near and dear to our hearts, and some of those reasons are very simple- we love nutrition!  When on the journey to become a registered dietitian, there are plenty of bumps along the road. Sometimes, it’s easy to forget why we are doing what we are doing.  

    “Why did I decide to volunteer again this week when I have a test tomorrow?”  Why am I taking six classes this semester?”  How is summer almost over when all I did was a volunteer and work?” These are common questions I’ve both asked and heard during my years as a student.

    Since becoming an RD (yay!) in July 2016, I often thought about what I wish I knew along the way to make things a little easier for me.  Honestly, the best advice that I could give would only begin and end with two words: networking and volunteering.  So important.  Not only do these things look amazing on your resume, but they will also help you navigate your way through dietetics with a bit of ease.  

    Networking can lead to you shadowing multiple RDs in different fields, learning about nutrition from another point of view, and making your name known in the dietetics field early.  

    Volunteering will make your resume and your DICAS application look amazing.  I asked one dietetic intern and one dietitian about what they would have liked to know before starting a nutrition career. This is what they had to say.

    “Network as much as possible, take on as many volunteer opportunities as you can, big or small.”

    “If you’re struggling in academics, then definitely seek out a tutor, your professor, or other resources that your University provides for extra help. When trying to get into an internship and meet with the director, whether it’s one-on-one or in a group setting, come prepared with questions.  Don’t forget to update your resume and LinkedIn as you go continually”. – Jess Mirkin, Dietetic Intern at the University of Saint Joseph, West Hartford, CT.

    “Becoming a dietitian is a long road, but it will all be worth it in the end; keep going!”

    The dietetics community is tiny and close-knit. Never burn bridges; you never know who knows your potential internship director or future boss.  Volunteer as much as you can; it’s the best and sometimes the only way to get experience in nutrition as a student. Be persistent; dietitians are super busy and may not respond to questions right away but typically respond well to those who show they are ready to work, learn, and show that they have something to offer.  Being a dietitian can sometimes feel like a thankless job; remember why you started in the first place and how important what you’re doing is”.  – Hailey Beiner, RDN, C-DN.

    The consensus seems to be the same- networking, persistence, volunteering, never feeling like you can’t ask for help, and always remembering why you started this journey.  Never give up, and remember that it’s worth it!

    CONTINUE READING

  • Your Step-By-Step Guide to the Dietetic Internship Application

    Applying to a dietetic internship program requires time and direction. We’ve broken down this step so you can land the internship of your dreams!

    The semester is in full swing, and that means it’s crunch time for dietetic internship applications! If you are hoping to apply for an internship this spring, the deadline for applications is February 15.

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

    If you are hoping to apply for the application this fall or next spring, note these tasks, and your application process will be a breeze (kind of!).

    Your Step-By-Step Guide to the Dietetic Internship Application

    Research accredited dietetic internship programs.

    Make a spreadsheet of which programs sound interesting to you. This will allow you to compare program requirements side-by-side in one location. Items to include in this spreadsheet are:

    • School
    • Location
    • # of Applicants
    • # of Applicants Accepted
    • Min GPA Required
    • Avg. GPA of Current Students
    • Length of Program
    • Full-time or Part-time
    • Concentration/Specialty
    • Rotations
    • Cost
    • GRE?
    • Advanced Degree?
    • Other Program Requirements?
    • Interview Required?

    Visit the DI programs’ open houses online or in-person and view their webinars to make sure you know everything about the program.

    Set up an appointment with your academic advisor or DPD director to discuss the application process and programs you are interested in.

    Write the application due/important dates on your calendar.

    Have all additional application requirements prepared before the opening date of the application.

    • Preceptors (if completing a distance dietetic internship)
    • Letters of Recommendation
    • List of Transcripts Needed
    • Credit Hours Completed
    • Personal Statement
    • Resume
    • Volunteer Experience / Extracurricular Activities
    • Awards and Achievements

    Register with D&D Digital Computer Matching Program

    Apply Using the Dietetic Internship Centralized Application Service (DICAS)

    • $45 fee for the first DI program, $20 for each additional DI program application
    • Make sure to read everything and complete the entire application

    Rank programs on D&D Digital

    Hit the submit button on DICAS and wait for Match Day!

    View Jenny’s video below for more application process details

    P.S. If you’re feeling nervous about the application process, have no fear! All Access Dietetics is here. Check out our Get Matched Coaching services. 

    CONTINUE READING

  • How to Choose What Dietetic Internships to Apply To

    Take the time to investigate your options and think about what you want to get out of your dietetic internship. Follow these tips to help you decide.

    What do you want out of an internship? This is a big question that can help you find your best path to becoming a Registered Dietitian. In this post, I will go through some ways to help you make that decision.

    Schedule a free call with Jenny today to discuss your backgrounds, address any concerns, and decide on the next steps of your dietitian journey!

    Define What you Want

    What do YOU want out of your dietetic internship? We all know by now that there is a great possibility we might not get matched with our first choice, but do you want to sit back and wonder what if? I have heard of students who decided not to apply somewhere because they thought it was too tough to get in, even though it may have been their dream internship.

    Keep in mind that this is a time in your life where you can afford to be a little selfish. I realize that many people are not in a situation where they can move around the country, but if you are, embrace it! Be sure that you are choosing internships that are right for you based on your needs and wants, not based on convenience or the desires of others. If your top choice happens to be across the street or happens to be the same one that your best friend is ranking first, then that’s great! If not, listen to your gut– it’s usually right.

    Many factors differentiate each internship program from the other. Consider what you can realistically afford to do and choose from programs that match your interests and experiences. I was willing to look across the country for internships.

    I knew I wanted a general emphasis, was attracted to teaching hospitals, did not want a graduate degree yet, and wanted the option to do an elective rotation in Chicago (my hometown). Massachusetts General Hospital offered all of that to me, and that is where I got matched. When you apply to programs that match what you are interested in, your genuine enthusiasm for the program will shine through to the selection committee and reflect well on your application. The match works two ways—both you and the program should fit well with each other. Proving you are the perfect fit is what the application is for! Let’s dive deeper into defining what you want in an internship.

    Deciding Factors

    • Location
    • Cost
    • Emphasis
    • Grad School
    • Electives
    • Affiliation
    • Rotation Sites

    Final Thoughts

    Have an open mind, and don’t be limited by the internship location, unless you desire to live in a particular area. Also, keep that open mind as you go through your internship; you could start with a passion for pediatrics and end with a passion for geriatrics!

    Visit the internship program if it is logistically and financially possible. Meet the internship director; let the director put a face with your name! Also, observe the surrounding location of the internship and what that city has to offer. If you don’t like the site, it will make the internship that much harder. Contact previous interns and get their feedback about their experience beyond the workday. Past dietetic interns are more likely to tell you about how they de-stressed from the internship than directors. And again, have an open mind when applying and as you go through your internship program.

    Make it Happen

    • Develop your list of deciding factors and define what you want out of an internship.
    • Keep these deciding factors in mind as your narrow down your list of worthy programs.
    • Start going through options early on! The earlier you start, the better off you will be.
    • Create a top-10 list, and narrow it down to your final 4-5 choices at least two months before the deadline.

    P.S. Want someone to tell you exactly where you should apply to increase your chances of getting matched? Get Matched Coaching is for you.

    CONTINUE READING

  • 5 Myths About Being a Dietetics Major

    Studying nutrition means sometimes you’re learning the Krebs cycle, and others you’re baking cookies. Here are our top myths about being a dietetics major.

    Are you looking to land the dietetic internship of your dreams? Schedule your free call with Jenny today to discuss your background, address any concerns, and decide on the next steps for your dietitian journey!

    All we do is study food.

    Almost all DPD coursework includes anatomy and physiology, chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology…shall I go on? We know the ins and outs of metabolic pathways and can balance a chemical equation like nobody’s business, but we also know how to make a killer acai bowl and prevent foodborne illness. After all, we are food and nutrition experts- in every area of the field!

    Everyone follows the gluten-free-dairy-free-paleo-low-FODMAP diet.

    We know the importance of a well-balanced diet more than anyone, and that one diet doesn’t fit all. Cheat days are often plenty, but we strive to practice what we preach and eat for health. You can find many of us experimenting with new recipes, too.

    The only students who get internships have straight A’s

    There are so many other components to your application than your grades. Yes, they are essential, but so are your volunteer experiences, work experiences, personal statement, and letters of recommendation.

    Ochem is impossible without blood, sweat, or tears

    It’s no lie that organic chemistry requires lots of hard work. Utilizing study groups, office hours, and lots of study time can make doing well…no blood needed.

    We balance studying, homework, volunteering, and working like pros

    Nope, that’s not a myth 😉

    What are some of your favorite myths about being a dietetics major? Sound off in the comments!

    P.S. ARE YOU IN YET? Sign up for our newsletter, and you’ll receive monthly webinar invitations, free resources, exclusive experience opportunities, and more!

    CONTINUE READING

  • 5 Reasons to Create an Online Portfolio

    Think of your online portfolio as an extension of your DICAS application. This tool could get you closer to landing the dietetic internship of your dreams.

    If you haven’t created an online portfolio yet, now’s the time! Only some program applications require one, but you can still add the URL to your resume even if they don’t.

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

    Here are our top 5 reasons why you need one:

    Opportunity to show directors examples of your best work

    Remember to include projects or papers that you are passionate about to reference them in later interviews. Did you complete a unique project in your program? Feature it so internship programs can see it!

    It makes you stand out from the competition.

    No two applications are alike, similar to online portfolios. Your portfolio is distinctly yours and can be another way to stand out from the crowd and make a lasting impression.

    Adds a visual element to your application

    A dietetic internship director may remember you during your interview from your online portfolio’s unique logo or layout. This also serves as a way for internship programs to learn about you and your sense of style or flare. Make sure to stay true to yourself when creating your online presence!

    It gives directors a better sense of who you are as a person

    Directors will gain a better understanding of your personality through the details of your online portfolio. They will see your skills, such as attention to detail and creativity, which show promise as a dietetic intern.

    It can be used again when you’re hunting for a job

    Make sure to save your online portfolio and continue adding to it as a dietetic intern. Nothing will make a potential employer more pleased than an in-depth and highly professional online portfolio. As you grow through your nutrition career, remember to let your online portfolio grow with you.

    Blogger, WordPress, VisualCV, and Wix are all great sites for housing your portfolio.

    Are you not convinced? Check out this article from The New York Times for more!

    P.S. Once your e-portfolio is done, join our Get Matched Coaching for a portfolio review from one of our coaches to make sure it is visually fantastic, organized, and free of grammar mistakes!

    CONTINUE READING

  • How To Become a Sports Dietitian

    We interviewed Kate Moran, an MLB Sports Dietitian for the Minnesota Twins. Kate shares how she got where she is and tips for aspiring RD2BE’s!

    sports dietitian mlb

    Kate got started with the Minnesota Twins through Sodexo, the foodservice management company. The Minnesota Twins are one of Sodexo’s “clients.” As the dietitian, Kate has complete control of the kitchen and the team’s sports dietitian aspect of things! In addition to being an MLB sports dietitian, she also precepts students! HINT HINT, Make the ASK!

    Learn how to make the ASK here!

    Kate shares some GREAT advice, whether it’s the sports nutrition field you want to go into or a different field! Check out the interview below and for more information about Kate, visit her site Educated Plate.

    Watch her interview below or on youtube!

    We also want to shout Sarah Grace Meck for conducting this interview when she was in her Dietetic Internship! Sarah is now an RD, and she has created two successful company’s FreshFitNHealthy and TheRDUniversity! We love to see RD’s making their dreams come true!

    PS. Check out our Real World Sports Nutrition Toolkit!

    CONTINUE READING

  • How to Study for Multiple Exams in One Week

    There are a few things in life that are more stressful than having multiple exams in one week. The good news is there are tried and proper ways of tackling this!

    Having multiple exams in one week causes my anxiety to take over, and I go from 0 to 100 real quick. Now, if one exam is on a Monday and another is on a Friday, it’s all gravy, baby! But if we’re talking back-to-back exam days…the struggle couldn’t be more accurate. But, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered! The following study tips are guaranteed to calm that anxiety storm and leave you smooth sailing to your next exam week.

    1. Prioritize your exams.

    Which exam will be the hardest, and which will be easier for you? Start with the hardest. Begin studying for the most challenging exams about a week before the exam date, but don’t do it all at once! Review a bit at a time in intervals. Distributing learning over time typically benefits long-term retention better than a short period.

    2. Schedule your time.

    Create a schedule for yourself that includes how many hours you will spend on each subject and when you will take breaks. Let’s face it, studying one subject for endless hours will make anyone go crazy. Spend 2-3 hours on each topic and take a non-academic break in between. Cardio has been shown to improve memory, so schedule yourself a quick run in between subjects for a brain boost!

    Click here to stay organized with these top 5 tips!

    3. Take naps during study breaks.

    From personal experience, this has worked wonders for me. I’ve learned I can remember the material much better if I study for a few hours, take a nap, then get back to studying. And there’s a science to back it up! A 2010 Harvard study suggested that dreaming may reactivate and reorganize recently learned material leading to improved memory.

    Learn more about how sleep helps your memory!

    4. Say no to cramming and all-nighters!

    Not only will your brain be foggy from the lack of sleep, but cramming information causes anxiety which can lower your ability to retain information. Do yourself a favor and aim for 8-9 hours of sleep the night before exams.

    Learn more about exam study strategies for RD2Be’s!

    Now study and crush those exams!

    multiple exams

    PS. Are you worried about matching to a Dietetic Internship? Check out our get-matched course!

    CONTINUE READING

  • A Surefire Recipe to Gain Volunteer Experience

    To stay competitive as a nutrition student you have to get good grades, be involved in extracurriculars, and volunteer like your life depends on it.

    The semester is coming to an end and summer is right around the corner.  As dietetic majors, you know that summer means that there is more time for… volunteering! 

    At times this is a very stressful and time provoking task but this is why you have us to help you through and find and create your best possible experiences that DI directors will gasp at (good gasps!) and put you right at the top of their lists.

    To make this task a little more tolerable, what better way to read about volunteer experiences is there than a recipe.  With just a few ingredients, a dash of determination, and some simple directions, you will be on your way to cookin’ up great volunteer experiences!

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

    Ingredients

    • Leadership skills
    • Confidence
    • Creativity
    • Persistence
    • Enthusiasm

    Not sure where to begin? First, check out local volunteering opportunities near you here. Next, follow the directions below.

    Directions

    1. Ask – Put yourself out there. There are very few people that will turn down someone that wants to work for FREE.  What excites you?  What do you want to learn more about?  Whether it is for 2 weeks, 2 months, or 2 years, experience is experience, and anything helps, all you have to do is ASK!  If you are uncomfortable at first approaching someone to see if you could volunteer with them, there is nothing wrong with an email.

    Sample Email: 

    To Whom It May Concern,

    My name is __________.  I’m a nutrition major at _____________ and I’m extremely interested in your __________________.  I would love to learn more about ________, and was wondering if I could volunteer for you.  I appreciate your time and patience with this request and I look forward to hearing back from you in the near future.

    Thanks,

    ____________

    2. Ask again – This is where persistence comes in. If you don’t hear from anyone in a week, try a follow-up email.  Still no response?  Stop in in-person!  People are just as busy as you are and may not check their emails often.  They may think that your persistence is an asset to their company and want to know more about you.

    3. Ask for more – Yay, you are volunteering for something that you are passionate about! Now that you’ve learned the ropes of their company/business, ask for more projects.  If you have something in mind that you think will be beneficial, ask your boss for permission.  Lots of people are open to fresh, innovative, and creative ideas, that will help them make more of a positive influence in society.  Go for it!

    Now, enjoy the fruits of your labor.  At times, this may be hard work, but it’s worth it in the end.  Stay positive, always keep a smile on your face, and remember your end goal.

    P.S. Are you applying to your dietetic internship? Join Get Matched Coaching for personalized advice that will help you gain confidence that will bring you one step closer to becoming a dietitian!

    CONTINUE READING

  • How Strong Relationships with My Professors Got Me an Internship… After Match Day

    Check out Dianna Sinni’s advice on the importance of maintaining good relationships with professors and how they can affect the trajectory of your career!

    By Dianna Sinni, RD, LD

    I’ll be honest- I’m a Registered Dietitian who didn’t get matched. I logged into DICAS like every dietetic intern out there, anxiously awaiting to see my match. I felt confident, I had progressed in two phone interviews for two programs, and my personal statement was really well written. I remember my boyfriend was seated next to me on our couch, but he kept getting bored with the waiting game – DICAS was temporarily down due to the high volume of log-ins, no doubt attributed to Match Day.

    A few hours later, it happened – I logged in successfully…but only to see the horrible regrets memo.

    There were tears. A lot of them. But as much as I wanted to crawl into my bed and sob, what good would it really do me? Wallowing in self-pity and sorrow wouldn’t get me into an internship – only I could. And it was too important to me to waste any time.

    You might be wondering: how exactly did she get an internship and become a RD if there was no match?

    Within an hour or two after realizing I hadn’t matched, I IMMEDIATELY (immediacy, of high importance here!) emailed my undergraduate professors (the two who had written my DI recommendations as well) from Keene State College. I was already a few years out from undergrad, but had always kept in contact with my advisor and another professor during those two years post-graduation. This would prove to be the biggest asset to my dietetic internship journey.

    They were both shocked that I hadn’t matched (definitely a confidence booster after the initial sting of not matching) and immediately sent email after email of open intern spots for various programs across the country. There was hope!

    As a prospective dietetic intern, I had no idea that DI program directors connect with each other surrounding match day – something that turned out to be in my favor. I received at least 5 emails from my undergraduate professors of DI and ISSP programs that didn’t match to full capacity and were looking for well recommended interns.

    You might be wondering: so, why didn’t you wait until 2nd rounds?

    Sure, I could have waited a month or so until DICAS reopened and new matches were made with remaining applicants…but why would I want to wait? I took matters into my own hands – I cold-emailed at least 5 DI Program Directors with intern spots available. They sent over their program information and I had two phone interviews for two programs I was strongly considering; all within the 24-48 hours after Match Day.

    In less than 72 hours after not being matched, I was a fully enrolled Dietetic Intern at Sage College’s distance dietetic program. There were some formalities to complete, but I was in! While it wasn’t Plan A, it was the BEST Plan B I could have ever had. My experience was amazing and I am forever grateful for the support of my undergraduate professors. They believed in me because I believed in myself. They knew I was motivated and driven, and in turn were willing to put themselves out there to help me achieve my dream.

    So what does this mean for you?

    It’s never too late to start fostering relationships with your undergraduate professor and advisors. They aren’t just your teacher for a few semesters or the ones who write a DI recommendation letter – they’re the RD’s who can actively help make your dreams of becoming a RD reality and will continue to think of you throughout your career. Here’s a few tips to get started:

    1. Take advantage of office time (but don’t be annoying).

    Stop in to say hello and show serious interest in their classes. They have an immense wealth of knowledge and experience that you can tap into and learn from.

    2. Over summer break or after graduation, stay in touch via email or phone quarterly.

    Let them know what you’ve been up to in the dietetic world or new things you’ve been hearing about in the field.

    While I can’t guarantee you’ll get a DI just by cultivating a great relationship with your professors, I can – with confidence and through experience – say it is such an invaluable asset to your career path.

    Connect with Dianna Sinni here:

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

    CONTINUE READING

  • How to Mentally Recover After an MNT Exam

    Imagine this. You finish your MNT exam, with time to spare, and you hand it in to your professor with the biggest smile on your face and you turn around and walk out the door knowing that you are an exceptional student and totally aced it.  Has this ever happened to you?  The anxiety of finishing on time, the worry and second guessing of whether you did that tube feed calculation right, did you give your “patient” enough protein? AH. The mental toll that MNT exams have can last for a while. Here are five tips to help you recover from after an MNT exam:

    1. ONLY REVISIT YOUR NOTES ONCE.

    Your first instinct when you leave the room after your exam is usually to check your notes to see if you got an answer correct. This is ok, but limit this time.  Dwelling on something that you can’t fix won’t do you any good.  Be confident in your answers.  Adjust your focus to the positive.

    2. EXERCISE.

    As nutrition majors, we know that a healthy and balanced lifestyle includes exercise.  Although this may not be something that you want to do right after your test, the endorphins that are released will help with the stress you just endured. 30 minutes of moderate physical activity will do wonders.

    3. YOGA.

    Breathe in, breathe out. Yoga is the perfect de-stressor.  Whether you go to your local studio or find a great podcast that prompts you with the movements, yoga will help you declutter your mind and center yourself. Stretching out your body and letting go of the day will help you mentally recover from that MNT exam.

    4. HANG OUT WITH FRIENDS.

    DON’T talk about the exam! Out of sight, out of mind. This is easier said than done, but try focusing on other aspects of your life.

    5. TREAT YOURSELF.

    You deserve it! You studied for hours, rewrote your notes a million times, and stayed up late cramming in every last bit. Reward yourself with something that will make you feel great. Get a mani/pedi, go out for fro-yo, buy that new shirt that you’ve been obsessing over. Knowing that you’ve done your best is all that you can do at this point and treating yourself to something will give you a sense of accomplishment.

    P.S. Now that exams are over, it’s time to start preparing for Match Day! 

    CONTINUE READING

  • 8 Tweets Accurately Describing a Dietetics Major life

    Not everyone understands what it is like to be a dietetics student, but these fellow students tweets accurately describe the life of a dietetics major.

    We’re not sure what we enjoy more studying dietetics or reading tweets about the life of studying dietetics! We have complied a list of some of the best Tweet descriptions of what it is like to be an #RD2BE!

    1. The only way to write a scientific journal article is with cookies!

    2. I think we can all agree, we love eating food and talking about food!

    3. Oh, the memories! Shout out to all the #RD2BE’s in their DI’s!

    4. We do it for the tacos.

    5. If we had a dollar for every tear we shed we could afford the dietetic internship!

    crying as a dietetics major

    6. Precisely and spell, “DieTITian”.

    dietitian dietetics major

    7. But seriously, does Betty Crocker even know this much about muffins?

    muffins dietetics major

    8. Mind yo business Aunt Betty, mind yo business!!

    dietetics major

    In all seriousness, our major is HARD! It’s comforting knowing other students share the same trials and tribulations as you. Know that we are proud are you! Keep the hysterical and accurate tweets coming! We love em’!

    Check out some life tips for surviving as a dietetics student!

    PS. Have these tweets inspired you to become a Dietitian? Check out the Academy’s resources for becoming a Dietitian!

    CONTINUE READING

  • The Perfect Thank You for Your Dietetic Mentor

    Searching for the perfect way to say thank you to the Dietitian in your life? We’ve created the ultimate list of thank you gifts for your Dietetic Mentor!

    As the school year comes to an end and the reality of your Dietetic Internship match sets in, you may be wondering, how can I express my gratitude to the Dietitian who helped me succeed? It can be intimidating trying to think of the BEST way to thank the Dietitian who inspired you and helped shape you into an #RD2BE. Do I need to buy a gift? How much should I spend on it? Is it too much or too little? Will they like it? These questions may be racing through your head. But, the key to having the perfect thank you is to be thoughtful.

    You should genuinely express how grateful you are. Don’t be afraid to get creative! Have fun with it!

    Starting with the note, you can make a homemade card or purchase a food-related card. Write from the heart, be honest and authentic! Try to describe the impactful experiences you shared with them! Get personal, your mentor knows YOU, and you know THEM. Remember, this Dietitian helped your dreams come true!

    Click here to learn how to write the PERFECT thank you note!

    Try to match the card to the Dietitian’s personality or likes! 

    • Do they love Bananas? 

    Thanks a bunch!

    • Are they a sushi fanatic?

    Thank you SOY much!

    • Is brunch their favorite meal?

    Thanks a brunch

    For additional fun foodie cards check out these sites!

    The next component of the perfect thank you for your Dietetic Mentor includes the actual gift!

    First and foremost, you are NOT obligated to give a gift to your mentor. We know the expenses ADD up quite a bit for #RD2BE’s. A thoughtful thank-you note is MORE than enough; your mentor will be more than happy with a card. However, if you do wish to go the extra mile and purchase a gift, we’ve got you covered!

    • Mugs are a great choice; we all know RD’s and #RD2BE’s run on caffeine.

    Special dietitian

    • A thank you for your thyme plant is a clever and thoughtful gift.

    Thank you for your thyme

    • For the plant lover with a killer sense of humor purchase a succulent and write thank you for not succulenting the life out of me or life would suc without you.

    succulent

    • Are they in need of a custom name sign with their favorite veggie?

    Desk sign

    • Do they need new wall decor that expresses how great they are?

    Truly a great dietitian

    • A sign to hang above their door, so everyone else in the office knows this is the Dietitians, not Dieticians office.
    •  

    Dietitian not Dietician

    • You cannot go wrong with the food; we all love snacks and sweets! If you want to test out those food science skills, make something homemade. If the Betty Crocker life isn’t for you, don’t be afraid to grab some cookies off the shelf. We’ve all passed off Tollhouse cookies as our “own” before!
    •  

    sweet treats

    For additional ideas, check out our amazon store!

    Overall, the possibilities are endless for gift giving! Remember to be thoughtful and express your gratitude! No matter what you give your mentor, they will be happy to have been a part of your success. You’ve got this!

    PS. If you are studying for the RD exam check out the Exam Toolkit here!

    CONTINUE READING