True or False: “I need to have clinical experience to be competitive for an internship.” This may be true if the emphasis of the program is clinical. However, broad and unique experiences may sometimes outweigh clinical experience, depending on the program director’s selection criteria for its applicants. And since “a wide variety” implies having more than one dietetics experience, you must seek out experiences before your application year. Let’s get moving!
If you ask any dietetics student about what it takes to be more competitive with their internship applications, you may hear, “Start volunteering soon and often!” Then, they will emphasize that you should get as many experiences as you can before you are in the process of applying. Your experience says a lot about your interests as well as your personality traits. Be proactive about gaining experiences by taking the initiative. Show that you can juggle multiple things at once.
A great example is holding a part-time job during the semester. You also want to convey your willingness to learn new skills and show your enthusiasm for learning. Take on a position that may be extra challenging. As directors review your experiences, they will notice qualities like professionalism, multitasking, leadership, and solid communication (to name a few).
Create Experiences Worth Writing About
Your experiences are what you will use to show that you have the skills to excel in the internship. If you can’t find good experiences offered through your school or within your community, start a new club or work with an RD that can be your mentor and provide invaluable one-on-one expertise. It shows that you are a go-getter and are not afraid to take the initiative!
Variety is Key
During the internship, each rotation may be very different from the others. Racking up the exposure in a lot of different areas will make your training year less intimidating. Getting experience in basic clinical, food service, and community areas are crucial since these are required rotations for every DI. Once you’ve done that, expand to more specialized areas like research, business, entrepreneurship, sports nutrition, pediatrics, or communications. Not only will you have your bases covered with “typical” student positions, but you can also bolster your application with impressive add- ons that allow you to rise above the crowd.
Making the Ask
How exactly are you supposed to go about finding these impressive add-ons? Let me be the first to tell you that Google can only take you so far! As dietetics students, we all crave opportunities to prove ourselves in the professional world. However, you must be willing to take some risks. I want to let you in on my secret called “making the ask.” Here’s how it works. If you haven’t already spent some time on the Internet researching companies, hospitals, professional organizations, dietitians in private practice, etc., then it’s time you got started. First, do the obvious. Check and see if they offer established internships or volunteer experiences. If they don’t, make the ask! If you don’t ask, your answer is always NO.
Not quite “experience-hungry” yet? Keep in mind that a wide variety of experiences will allow you to:
Decide what you are interested in
Gain contacts in the field
Show your willingness to learn and commitment to the profession
Expand your skillset
Prove to directors that you take the initiative to gain as much experience as possible
Take advantage of breaks
Use Your Breaks Wisely
If you are lucky enough to have them, utilize those month-long winter breaks to squeeze in more experience or even get started on applications! Here are some ideas to stay busy in between semesters:
Volunteer at a food bank or soup kitchen. It will be hectic during the holidays.
Help an RD set up their blog and contribute posts regularly (nutrition communications!).
Volunteer at a hospital for any holiday events, especially in the foodservice department.
Start a blog of your own nutrition-related experiences.
Reconnect with your summer job supervisor to see if they could use an extra hand.
Use this time to set up shadowing appointments with various RDs to get to know more about the field.
Research and apply for summer job options. Many summer internships are filled by January.
Collect awards, past work, and projects and create an online résumé using Blogger.com, WordPress.com, or VisualCV.com. Put this link on your application résumé. It’s all the rage!
You’ve read the instructions over and over, but there are a few things they don’t tell you about DICAS…read this list and find out what they are!
DICAS. One of the few things that stands between you and the internship of your dreams. It’s all new to you, and it can be overwhelming or confusing. First, take a look at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Next, check out our top tips below to give you a heads up on what to expect.
Your transcripts will probably take a looooong time to process.
You’ve heard the horror stories of having to FedEx your transcripts the day before they’re due because they got lost or how someone forgot a transcript all together. Avoid the panic and send your transcripts EARLY! Mine took around three weeks to process, so get them done as soon as your grades are posted.
You need to double and even triple check each section.
Even if you type a single letter into a section, DICAS will make it look like it is complete on the homepage, even if it isn’t. Be sure to look at every section before you submit.
The application will take you a lot of time, so plan accordingly.
Don’t become a hermit but this isn’t the time to take on extra shifts at work or go on a long vacation.
Every experience is important.
Although it may not be resume-worthy, definitely list it in the Activities section. Did you volunteer somewhere for just one shift? Add it there. Keep track of everything you’ve done so you don’t forget to add it in.
You should probably PDF your resume before you upload it.
Otherwise, your format will be messed up to whoever is reading it.
Ask for your recommendations early.
You can still submit your application without all of your references in, but nobody wants to write a recommendation letter with one week’s warning. Make sure you offer them your updated resume and a list of programs you are applying to so they can write to your strengths. And of course, send a thank-you note showing your appreciation.
You might have a few breakdowns/panic attacks/crying spells.
It’s part of the process 😉
Edit, edit, edit!
Before you submit, print out your final application so you can see it all in its glory and look it over. Snag your parents, friend, an AAD Coach, to check your grammar and help you improve the visual appeal, so that it all looks perfect.
P.S. Get a full review of your DICAS application, DICAS tutorial, sample DICAS formatting, final DICAS checklist and more as part of the Get Matched Coaching experience!
A dietetic internship or RD program brings you one step closer to becoming a dietitian. Unfortunately, most are unpaid. Jenny discusses internship payment options below!
True or False: “Dietetic internships (DIs) are paid positions because we are employees, right?” Most of the time, this is false. A very popular thought to ponder is how you are going to pay for a DI. Possible expenses include: application fees, computer matching fees, printing costs, mailing costs, travel expenses, and then eventually the tuition, insurance, books, lab coats, room and board, and other program-related costs. This is astronomical for interns and college students who do not get paid! It’s unfortunate that there are financial limitations in many programs. And even with a stipend, some students still find it hard to cover even the most basic of costs. Written by an All Access Dietetics dietetic intern.
I vividly remember hearing a DPD director telling a class of dietetics seniors about the time she was on food stamps during her DI. My mouth dropped. “What? Is it that bad?” For me, I survived on all student loans and knew many interns that did the same. I’ll be in some debt, but I view my loans as an educational investment. I am confident that my return on investment will be exponential! Even so, financial costs for DIs seem to be high on the list of deciding factors for many applicants.
First, review the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Scholarship Application. Next, check out your local and state dietetic associations. This includes the state you are leaving and the state you are entering (if they are different). Scholarships are a GREAT way to get your school paid for without having to pay it back. Be creative with Google, too. Try “nutrition scholarship” or “dietitian scholarship” and see what might pop up. Even throw in names of your respective states or cities- you just never know. Some programs have scholarships specifically for their interns. Others have state scholarships that are not as competitive as national scholarships. Let’s say you work on an application for five hours. Then, you get awarded a $500 scholarship. You basically just got paid $100 per hour…NICE!
Loans
They could be federal student loans, private student loans, or personal loans. Ask the program directors which loans are available to you during the internship. Do you know if the internship program has applied to the government for educational loan status? Also, is deferment possible for your undergraduate student loans?
Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program:
– Low-interest rates
– Loans deferred while a student is enrolled in an eligible program of study at least half time
Unsubsidized Loans:
– Not awarded on basis of need
– Interest begins to accrue at the time you receive the loan (the “disbursement date”)
– Interest accrues from the disbursement date until you pay off the loan in full
– You can pay the interest or allow it to accumulate and capitalize
Subsidized Loans:
– Awarded on basis of financial need
– The federal government pays interest on the loan until you begin to pay it off (when you become less than a half time student)
You might suspect there is no easy solution for the financial burden that comes with DIs but definitely explore your options. For you, it may be possible to get a little financial help and also feel settled about the fact that your bank account contains only borrowed money. Maybe then you will want to soak up everything the internship has to offer and get your money’s worth!
Working During the Internship
This may not be an option if your internship discourages it. But, if you are in a part-time program or maybe a distance program, those both might have the best set up for having a job. That said, I’ve seen interns in traditional programs have jobs, but the jobs would have to be super flexible. Below are 15 unique ideas on how to make money during the internship.
1. Grow your Instagram and social media
Do you run an Instagram that you’re really passionate about expanding but not quite sure how? Or maybe you’ve been thinking about starting a new foodie blog but have no clue where to begin. Learn how to attract your target audience, beat the algorithm, and increase your engagement using these tips. Once your Instagram is up and running, your next step is to check out everything you need to know to create a successful online business. Instagram is a great way to make money as a dietetics student.
2. Create a blog and learn how to sell on your website
Looking for a way to make money that gives you flexibility and room to put your creativity into action? A blog is not only a great way to share your knowledge and passion with others, but also great for making new connections. The Unconventional RD teaches nutrition professionals ways they can earn passive and alternative income that they may not have even known existed. This blog offers tons of tips and resources from google analytics to connecting with brands that fit your M.O. Use your blog to help establish yourself in the field, build your professional network, all while making money in your pajamas.
Expand your blog, Instagram, or Youtube channel with sponsored posts! Click here for tips on defining your brand, reaching your audience, improving your engagement, and more.
4. TikTok
Yes, you read that right. TikTok is currently one of the fastest-growing platforms out there and no, you don’t have to be the next Charlie Dimelio to grow your following. TikTok is a great outlet for entrepreneurs to increase their engagement and following in a short period of time. But how do I use it? What kind of content should I post? Use this article Tik Tok for Entrepreneurs, as a guide on making videos, increasing your following, and creating content that stands out.
5. Start a business
If you’re interested in the entrepreneurial side of dietetics, I strongly urge you to get an online business coach like Tony Stephan. Tony Stephan is a successful Registered Dietitian who built his own online nutrition coaching business from the ground up. Check out his blog and read Tony’s article, Starting a Nutrition Business as a Dietetics Student to learn more! Libby Rothschild is another awesome Registered Dietitian and expert in social media and marketing! Read about how she went from working in a hospital to running her own company here. But wait there’s more. The founder of All Access Dietetics, Jenny Westerkamp’s story of how she started her own business in dietetics all while still being a dietetic student is a worthwhile read here. Lastly, if you want to learn about marketing and creating a business or expanding your current one, consider enrolling in The RD University.
6. Wellness coaching
If you love nutrition counseling and are searching for a platform to expand your services, check out Healthie. This virtual care platform is perfect for managing your practice, communicating with your clients, and building your relationships.
7. Manage social media for a dietitian
Maybe you follow a blog or Instagram that has always been your inspiration and you’ve been dying to get involved. Reach out to them and see if they need help with their social media content! Use the tool Canva to help you create new and innovative content. It offers hundreds of free templates to help create graphics, posters, logos, presentations, and more. You can also check out the article: The 6 Best Free Design Tools to Create Social Media Graphics, to learn how to make your content stand out and capture your audience’s attention.
7. Uber or Lyft
Love listening to tunes and getting to know people? Driving for Uber or Lyft may be the right fit for you. Click here for more information on getting started with Lyft.
8. Waiter or waitress
Work part-time as a waiter or waitress to earn some extra money! If your classes or internship aren’t the typical 9-5 hours, waitressing is a convenient way to fill in those gaps or weekends. If you want to stay active, improve your customer service skills, and learn how to work under pressure, consider getting a job at a restaurant.
9. Front desk at a gym
Another job that’s not your usual 9-5 is working at the front desk of a gym or yoga studio. This kind of environment offers flexible hours and early or late shifts outside of normal business hours. Some places may even offer you a discounted or free gym membership. Pop into your local gym or visit their website to apply.
10. VIPKID
Have a passion for teaching and working with kids? Teach English online with VIPKID. Set your own schedule, teach one-on-one lessons, and get to experience the rewarding feeling of educating young minds, all while getting paid.
11. Babysitting
Babysitting is an easy way to earn extra money as a dietetics student. Use Indeed, Care.com, or your local community Facebook pages to find babysitting gigs in your area.
12. Catering department at a hospital or long-term care facility
Apply to work in a hospital as a patient dining associate in the Food and Nutrition Department. In this setting, you will be on your feet, interacting with patients, helping with their menu selections, and much more. This environment not only can help you familiarize yourself with working in a hospital setting but also gives you the opportunity to interact with patients and brighten their day. Most positions have weekend or evening events, or you can inquire about working per diem.
If you’re outgoing and are seeking a flexible schedule look into becoming a brand ambassador. Start with the products you already love and enjoy and check out their company website for ambassador opportunities. Stop into your local grocery store or reach out to a company to inquire!
15. Use social media to make money
Looking to grow your social media following, stand out as an expert online, and learn how to grow a profitable online business? Join Rise to the Top, a self-paced virtual business course for dietitians and dietitians-to-be who want to learn how to carve your own path in the world of food, nutrition, and recipes to grow a brand and business! Led by Maggie Michalczyk, RDN, and Mary Ellen Phipps, MS, RDN, Rise to the Top takes you through everything from growing your Instagram following, pitching yourself to brands, doing your taxes as an entrepreneur and so much more! Learn more about the course here! (affiliate link)
Final Thoughts
I have one last piece of advice on money: I hear a lot of interns say that one of the challenges of an unpaid internship program is that you feel like you are working for FREE. If they are having a bad day, it is easy to complain about the fact that they are free labor. It basically becomes the scapegoat for their frustration. But I have a thought for you that will nip this bad attitude in the bud: Remember that this internship is the one last step you need to take until you reach your goal of becoming a dietitian. You are still paying for an education. Did you expect to be paid full-time to study in college?
As you move along through the program, focus on the end goal of the internship: to be a competent, entry-level dietitian. Also, think about all of those people who didn’t get matched. How lucky you are to even be in a DI/RD program? Many institutions lose money on providing a DI through liability or lost time teaching, among other reasons. In fact, that is part of the reason that there aren’t enough spots available to everyone that applies. Therefore, you know the people guiding and teaching you at the hospital are dedicated to the advancement of the field. Be thankful for this. Stay motivated, positive, and complaint-free. This should make for a more beneficial experience.
Ready to get started on your application for a DI or RD program?
Dietetics Admissions: Get an expert coach in your corner helping you through every step of this confusing application journey. Imagine having a roadmap, personalized advice, application reviews, accountability, and confidence that will bring you one step closer to becoming a dietitian.Learn more about Dietetics Admissions here.
FREE application resources: You have questions. We have answers! The Application Toolkit is designed to teach you everything you need to know about dietetic internships in a streamlined and simple way. No more Google searching and reading random blog posts all over the Internet.Download the FREE Application Toolkit here.
P.S. Did you know certain RD programs, like those with the Veterans Affairs hospitals, offer stipends? These types of programs are more competitive because of that. Luckily, Coach Katie Braun was on a VA selection committee for 5 years and knows exactly how to increase your chances of landing a spot. Apply for Dietetics Admissions today to work with Katie.
Comments Off on ACEND Accredited Program Database: Pro Tip
by jennifer.westerkamp
Narrowing down the dietetic internship or RD program of your dreams takes determination and skill. Our ACEND Accredited Program database will help you make your best choice!
You may have already seen our ACEND Accredited Program Database, but here’s a pro tip:
>> Download the database to your computer, and then open it up in Microsoft Excel.
>> Go to the Master Tab document, and in the first row in each column, you can click the down arrow to filter each column.
That means you can check off any qualities you want in each column. This makes it simple to narrow down your choices!
(The link to the ACEND Accredited Program Database is in our free Dietetic Internships Toolkit. It’s filled with more FREE application resources for you!)
Ryan Hartz, the founder of Visual Veggies, shares his wisdom on the option of taking the DTR exam if a dietetic internship/RD program doesn’t pan out.
Guest Post by Ryan Hartz, Founder of Visual Veggies
You completed four years of undergraduate work in Nutrition and Dietetics and graduated with a well-respected GPA, but you were not matched to a dietetic internship program. Now what? Don’t fret. It’s not the end of the world. Getting matched to an accredited internship program has become highly competitive. When I was in your shoes some 15 years ago, we had the choice of which internship program we wanted to join without having to worry much that we wouldn’t get into any of our top picks. Times have changed as it appears the nutrition profession has exploded over the past several years. More and more young nutrition pups are entering the field, and simply not enough dietetic internship programs to accommodate.
With not getting matched to an internship, you may want to consider taking the DTR Exam. A Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR) is an eligible candidate who can work in many areas of nutrition similar to Registered Dietitians (RDs), such as:
– Clinical settings include hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, hospice care organizations, and home health care programs. DTRs can conduct nutrition screenings, gather nutrition data, and perform other tasks to assist R.D.s in providing medical nutrition therapy.
– Community settings include WIC offices, public health agencies, Meals on Wheels, and other community health programs. DTRs can develop and teach nutrition classes for the public.
– Food service settings, such as schools, daycare centers, correctional facilities, and restaurants. DTRs can manage employees, assist with purchasing and preparing foods, and prepare budgets within the foodservice operations.
– Wellness settings, such as health clubs, weight management clinics, and community wellness centers. DTRs can educate clients about the connection between food, fitness, and health
– Food company settings, such as contract food management, vending, and distribution centers. DTRs can develop menus, oversee sanitation and food safety, and prepare food labeling information and nutrient analysis.
Stepping Stone for the RD EXAM
I always like to think “glass half-full.” If you’re a student who did not match for an internship in this round, consider these potential advantages of taking the DTR Exam:
– With obtaining your bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics, you are already eligible to sit for the national DTR Exam
– Both the RD Exam and DTR Exam are computerized tests, following the same format. Taking the DTR Exam will give you experience taking the test and hopefully prepare you for what’s to come in the R.D. Exam.
– Our friends over at All Access Dietetics tell us that dietetic internship/RD program directors value the DTR credentials highly because it shows an applicant can successfully pass a national board exam.
– While having the DTR credentials will not guarantee a successful match to an internship on the next round, you will be able to use the credentials on your application as demonstrating knowledge and a commitment to the profession in the event you lack paid or volunteer dietetics-related experiences.
– Passing the DTR Exam will make you marketable and allow you to start practicing in various fields to gain experience and earn some money, which may be used to help pay off school loans or save for your upcoming dietetic internship.
Ready to begin studying for the DTR Exam? Check out the Visual Veggies Software specifically designed to help you become a DTR and start your career in dietetics!
P.S. If the RD exam is in your future, Pass the Exam Coaching is your solution! Click here to learn more.
Comments Off on What is DICAS and How Does it Work
by jennifer.westerkamp
DICAS is an online portal used by nutrition students to apply to dietetic internships or RD programs. Learn how to apply and how to get ahead of the game.
Before taking a deep dive into your dietetic internship (DI) application, there are a few things you should be aware of.
One of the questions we get asked most often is how to best prepare for the DI application match. We always recommend that students begin their application process as soon as possible, so that they have enough time to confidently submit their application to the best of their ability and avoid stressing over last minute work.
The Dietetic Internship Centralized Application System, also known as “DICAS,” is the online portal used by dietetics students who are applying to DI. Most, but not all, DI programs use the DICAS match.
DICAS allows students to complete a single online application. Program directors can access the applications, but can’t see the order in which the applicant ranked his or her programs. Instead, the applicant’s rankings are submitted on D&D Digital. Read more about D&D Digital here. Upon review of the application, the program director and staff submit ranking for applicants in addition to the maximum class size.
How to Apply to Dietetic Internships:
DICAS opens a little over two months before the applications are due and the application portal closes. The information applicants fill out on DICAS include:
Applicant Information: Contact information, personal information, and background information
Match Information: Applicant’s D&D Digital ID
Education Information: DPD course list form, colleges attended (majors, certificates/minors, transcript form, and cumulative GPA), session and coursework (all DPD grades including completed, in progress, and transfer DPD grades), and tests (GRE and TOEFL)
DPD Program Information: DPD director contact information and confirmed declaration of intent
Required Information: Awards, experience, & volunteer activities; personal statements (we recommend making a unique personal statement for each DI program. For personalized help, apply for our Get Matched Coaching program); updated resume; references (at least three references are required); and application certification
Program Destinations: The DI programs the applicant is applying to
How to Get Ahead of the Game
Even though the application only opens a couple months before the deadline, that doesn’t mean that you must wait to work on your application when it opens.
If you want to get a head start on your DICAS application, get a coach to help you strategize each step of the application process. After applying, you’ll speak with our enrollment coach to learn more about your career goals and confirm that you’re a good fit for coaching. Click here to apply for Get Matched Coaching.
With the right strategy and support, you CAN land a spot in a dietetic internship/RD program and become a dietitian. I believe in you. 🙂
Comments Off on How to Become a Registered Dietitian
by jennifer.westerkamp
What is the Difference Between a “Registered Dietitian” and a “Nutritionist”
A common question for anyone interested in studying dietetics is: “What is the difference between a “Registered Dietitian Nutritionist” (RDN) and a “Nutritionist.” Many people mistakenly use the terms “Dietitian” and “Nutritionist” interchangeably. These professions are related, but maintain distinctive qualities.
The nutritionist profession is much less regulated and protected under the law. Some states require nutritionists to obtain an occupational license and others allow nutritionists to practice without education or training. Unlike all nutritionists, all RDNs are required to complete formal education that is at least a baccalaureate degree. This program must include coursework covering:
Food service systems management
Food and nutrition science
Computer science
Chemistry
Business
Microbiology
Sociology
Biochemistry
Physiology
Economics
To maximize the depth, scope, length, and formal education and training, we recommend choosing the path of becoming an RDN.
How to Become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
The first step is to enroll in an Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics academic program. This is the most common path in which an individual is granted at least a bachelor’s degree. Another option is to enroll in an ACEND accredited Coordinated Program in Dietetics (CP), Future Education Model Graduate Degree Program (FG), or International Dietitian Education Program (IDE). Graduates of the listed programs are eligible to take the CDR’s Registration exam to become credentialed as an RDN. When you’re ready, click here to learn about our exam prep support.
Note: Starting in January of 2024, a graduate degree will be required to sit for the RD exam.
After completing a bachelor’s degree in addition to receiving a verification statement from an ACEND-accredited program, complete an ACEND-accredited supervised practice Dietetic Internship (DI) or Individual Supervised Practice (ISPP). The average match (“acceptance”) rate for dietetic internships/RD programs hovers around 60%. The supervised practice is combined with the CP, FG, and IDE listed above. This is a competitive application process with no guarantee of landing a spot, so we’re here to help!
The next step is to pass the dietetic registration exam (“RD exam”), gain licensure in your state of practice (if applicable), and maintain your continuing education hours through CDR.
Comments Off on What is D&D Digital and How Does It Work
by jennifer.westerkamp
D&D Digital internship matching helps future dietitians get matched to a dietetic internship or RD program. Learn how this system works below.
Why Should I Use D&D Digital?
D&D Digital internship matching is the website that collects applicants’ Dietetic Internship (DI) program rankings and also helps DI program directors receive applications. To be eligible for a match, you must create a D&D Digital account AND a DICAS account (check out our blog post: What is DICAS and How Does it Work). We recommend that applicants register online with D&D Digital early to prevent any potential ssues.
Registration
First, the applicant must register online. Each matching period requires a new application registration. If the applicant is applying to the pre-select admission option, they don’t need to register for D&D Digital. The registration requires an address and billing information. D&D Digital charges application fees to use its system for the match.
Internship Choices
After registering, the applicant can enter the internships in his or her priority order by ranking it under “Internship Choices” and saving the choices. There is an opportunity for applicants who have registered for the match by the deadline for completing the DICAS application to reorder their DI priority rankings after the deadline.
Release and Verification Information
The applicant has the option to have his or her name released on the list of applicants who were or were not matched under the “Release and Verification Information”.
Dietetic Internship Matching Process – Matching Results
The matching process uses both the applicant and the DI program’s ranking to create the final class list. First, the D&D Matching algorithm removes internship rankings of applicants that did not list them and vice versa. D&D looks at the matching window of the applicant’s ranked preferences and matches it to the DI programs.
After the applicant ranks and saves their internship choices and the D&D matching algorithm matches the applicants and the programs, the applicant will check “Matching Results” on match day to see where he or she got matched.
How to Get Ahead of the Game
With the match rate hovering around 60%, the competition is fierce. With Get Matched Coaching, you’ll work one-on-one with an expert coach who will be in your corner to help you through every step of this competitive and confusing application process. Click here to learn more!
Comments Off on What to do if You Don’t Get Matched to a Dietetic Internship
by jennifer.westerkamp
Not getting matched to a dietetic internship or RD program is not the end of your journey! There are options to help you become a registered dietitian.
If you didn’t match… first of all, everything happens for a reason. I truly believe that. If you don’t get matched, it is not a failure, it is a LESSON. You can reflect on what you could have done differently, get feedback from directors, and formulate a game plan for how you are going to LEARN from this lesson.
And persistence does pay off. I’ve seen many discussions on Facebook groups about the journeys that RD2Bes have gone through to reach their destination of becoming an RD. Applying 2, 3, 4, 6 times over the course of 1, 2, 3, or more years! In that time, they get awesome jobs, more education, and application help to change their outcome. There is hope for you if you are willing to put in the extra work it takes!
Here are a few things to do…
1. Get ready for the second round match.
After Match Day, there will be a list posted on D&D Digital of programs that still have spots. ISPPs are also posted there, too. Applicants can apply to these, and this is considered “second round.”
2. Email program directors for feedback.
After Match Day, program directors may reach out to certain unmatched applicants if they have an open spot. This is a rare occurrence, but it does happen! I suggest you reach out to the directors of programs you applied to and ask if they have any feedback to share. Make it a thoughtful email knowing that they might get a LOT of these. This may or may not help your chances if they have a spot available — it is worth a shot!
3. Research ISPPs by going to each individual ISPP website to understand their program.
First, find out what an ISPP is here. Next, use the Academy’s database to find available ISPPs. From now until a few weeks later, most second round programs and ISPPs will accept applications. Some programs will fill open spots fast while others might set a deadline farther out and wait to get all applicants.
Remember this: While you might not realize it now, it WILL be OK. Stay positive, develop your plan, and persist! It will be worth it in the end 🙂
P.S. If you didn’t get matched, think about applying for Get Matched Coaching to help you better sell yourself and all your amazingness for your next attempt!
Comments Off on Interview with Coaching Client Kristen Matthews
by jennifer.westerkamp
Learn more about All Access Dietetics (AAD) in this interview with Kristen Matthews, who talks about some of her experiences with our coaching services!
“AAD was worth the investment to me, because I had worked so hard as an undergrad and wanted to make sure that on match day I knew I did everything I could to get matched and that meant investing in a service that would help me achieve my goals.”
Kristen Matthews
Kristen Matthews, Get Matched Coaching client, shares her experience working with All Access Dietetics (AAD) and landing the dietetic internship of her dreams.
Why did you decide to do Get Matched Coaching?
I chose to use AAD because I knew that I was feeling a little lost when it came to program choices. I had a top internship but didn’t know how to figure out where else would be a good fit for me or what was realistic. In addition, I knew that I wanted assistance with my personal statement since I am not good at bragging about myself and was uncertain of how to format this type of essay. I had spent so much time in undergrad doing, “all of the things,” and needed help figuring out how to connect them all and show my accomplishments that without listing everything. I wanted to ensure that I was communicating effectively and had a cohesive vision in my personal statement. In addition, I knew I would want interview prep assistance if it came to that. The DICAS application is unlike anything I have ever had to complete and very few people I know have ever been through it so I wanted the guidance and the sounding board of a coach to answer questions and reassure me when I didn’t know if I was doing the right thing.
Why was AAD worth the investment to you?
AAD was worth the investment to me because I had worked so hard as an undergrad and wanted to make sure that on match day I knew I did everything I could to get matched and that meant investing in a service that would help me achieve my goals. In my mind, I equated it to having a tutor. I had tutors all throughout high school and even college at times to help me succeed and learn, and to me, this application was no different. DICAS is such a dense and dynamic application, I wanted to make sure I was putting my best foot forward. And AAD was worth the investment to me so I had the peace of mind that I did everything in my power to get matched.
What did you enjoy most about your experience with AAD?
I am the type of person that needs to talk through things, and so having coaching calls was a huge help. Talking through the thought process and ideas for my personal statement and just overall being able to just email at any time when I was filling out the other portions was so helpful in reducing application stress. I also think the coaches have a really great idea of what other programs fit with each applicant. I was struggling to pick my 2nd-4th choices and after speaking with my coach, sharing my interests, and what I was looking for in a program, she was able to recommend schools that fit my needs and also fit with my academics and were realistic. I know I felt overwhelmed and when looking over the excel spreadsheet of all the possibilities, I didn’t know where to start in narrowing it down, so that was a huge help.
Were there any other unexpected benefits of your experience with AAD?
The modules were a huge help and point of reference. When I signed up, I was looking more for the one-on-one coaching but having the modules in the course to keep referring back to at any time was super helpful and also helped me make the most of my coaching calls because I wasn’t asking unnecessary questions that were able to be answered from the modules.
Congratulations, Kristen on your match to your top choice dietetic internship – Vanderbilt University!
Does your Instagram feed need a dietetics makeover? We’ve compiled a list of 11 dietitians with Instagram feeds of epic proportions to inspire you!
RDs with aesthetically pleasing and insightful Instagram feeds make us happy. The world of Instagram and blogging is HARD. We want to give a big shout-out to 11 RDs advancing our profession one drool-worthy Instagram feed at a time! SNAPS FOR YOU RDs, SNAPS FOR YOU!
@NUTRITIONSTRIPPED
McKel is all about stripping nutrition down to its simplest form to help you live and feel your best.
@HEALTHYGROCERYGIRL
Megan is a plant-based dietitian sharing real food and natural living inspiration through beautiful and bright images.
@THEORGANICDIETITIAN
Sara specializes in Hormone and Gut Health! She creates easy to understand and eye-catching infographics regarding women’s hormones!
@THEWELLNECESSITIES
Lili is a mindful eating expert! She shares tips for trusting yourself and loving your body the way it is!
@NUTRITIONTRAVELER
Abigail is a world-wide traveler and foodie! She makes us envious of her life with her beautiful photos!
@NUDENUTRITIONIST
Lydni is an Australian based TV dietitian who calls out “wellness wankery”. We appreciate you, Lyndi!
@COLLEGENUTRITIONIST
Rachel provides simple and budget friendly recipes for college students! She’s mastered the art of meal prepping!
@WHOLELIVINGLAUREN
Lauren’s bio says it all, “eat more plants”. We can’t wait to make one of your recipes, Lauren!
@THECRUNCHYRADISH
Miranda is a RD and natural foods chef inspiring home cooks of all skill levels to get into the kitchen and cook healthy.
@HUMMUSAPIEN
Alexis shares awesome recipes you can find on her blog and gives you a look into the awesome life of an RD + Entrepreneur.
@NUTRITIONHAPPENS
May shares her definition of a healthy lifestyle with epic images! You’re making us hungry, May!
By no means have we even come close to the amount of dietitians crushing it on Instagram! We wish we could @ every RD, the limit would not exist! Hopefully, these dietitians inspire you as much as they inspire us.
As a nutrition major, you’re expected to achieve. Sometimes, it can get a little overwhelming. Our advice will help you both relax and succeed.
You’re a dietetics student. You’re simultaneously getting great grades, volunteer all of the time, learning the metabolism of every nutrient, and doing just about a million other things. You’re pretty amazing, but what happens when you get overwhelmed? Step back, take a breath, grab a fresh cup of kombucha, and read this list.
Trust the process.
Take it one day at a time.
It’s good to plan ahead, but make sure to focus on the present. Enjoy the time in your life where your main focus is learning.
Try to make your class schedule manageable.
Taking ochem with MNT and metabolism may seem like a good idea until test day rolls around, so try to space out the tough classes each semester.
Don’t be afraid to say no.
Too much on your plate? Don’t shy away from stepping back if it is something that you aren’t really interested in or just isn’t a priority.
Talk to your professors!
They are there for you and have a wealth of knowledge in the field. Dietetics is a small world and you will most likely see them again, so start building connections while you’re in class.
Make the effort to go to class everyday.
You are paying to be there, you might as well take full advantage! Your professors will notice and your GPA will probably benefit too.
Start researching the next step.
While you don’t need to know exactly what you want to do, it’s good to start scoping out what internships or jobs that catch your eye so you can look for volunteer opportunities for a trial run.
Ask for help when you need it.
You don’t always need to know all of the answers! Whether it’s a biology assignment or you are struggling with your schedule, it is always possible to get help.
Find time for fun!
You have plenty of time to be a workaholic after you graduate 😉 Put down that biochem book and go to a yoga class, have lunch with your mom, or just go and hang out with your friends! All work and no play makes the Krebs Cycle even more miserable.
Make your own opportunities.
Get your foot in the door.
Want to work as a clinical RD one day? Start by volunteering at a local hospital. Dream of being a sports dietitian? Scope out a local sports RD and ask if they need help for a day (or more!).
Find a mentor, be a mentor.
You don’t know where a volunteer opportunity will take you, so always give 100%.
Besides adding to your resume, a volunteer opportunity could help you make new friends, find your niche, or meet your future manager.
Eat well, take a break, and balance it all out.
You’re learning all about how to help others life a healthier lifestyle and eat well, so don’t forget to give yourself a healthy lifestyle too!
Know that you’re in one of the best majors.
And that one day, you will be changing lives for the better!
P.S. Are you applying to dietetic internships? Join Get Matched Coaching for personalized advice that will bring you one step closer to becoming a Registered Dietitian!
The road to becoming a Registered Dietitian is not easy, and there is a lot of competition along the way. The biggest battle is against yourself.
By: Emily Hulse
If you’re anything like me, you’ve seen it all. You’ve seen students glancing at one another’s tests as they’re handed back, anticipating comparison, you’ve heard professors explain the importance of being a stand-out student relentlessly, and you’ve read the statistics of the latest Match Round of the dietetic internship. You understand the road to becoming a dietitian is competitive, but you won’t give up on your dream.
Sometimes, it seems impossible to attain the famous RDN credential.
To become an R.D., you have to jump through hoops, including a Bachelor’s degree, Verification Statement, Dietetic Internship, and a national exam. Don’t get me wrong- these steps ensure that dietitians across the country are prepared for their positions. Producing amazing dietitians is incredibly important, but just because I’ve accepted it doesn’t make it any easier to digest!
This process can look overwhelming during the daily routine of classes, supervised practice, volunteering or working a paid job, studying, eating, and trying to exercise. This can lead to stress, mental health issues, or even fear of the future within this field. But it doesn’t have to turn out this way.
It’s easy to see how difficult the road to becoming an RDN is.
But sometimes, the obstacle most in your way is… yourself. As hard as that is sounds, it’s true that you are the only one in charge of your success. You can still be competitive without competing against others and ruining relationships with other incredible students. The best competition comes from within, from making ourselves better on the inside rather than focusing on the success of our classmates/peers, professors, and school.
Next time your professor hands out an exam, don’t focus on the student’s score next to you.
Instead, focus on how it compares to your final exam grade. If it’s better – excellent, and if not, inspire yourself to work harder. Keep track of your grades and aim to improve at each opportunity. When your professor reiterates the importance of being a stand-out student, remember that you already are one! If you feel unprepared for the future, find more opportunities for success. It doesn’t always mean joining the same clubs as your other classmates to check off another box on your resume. Maybe it means getting a job or starting a blog to keep you motivated and set you apart. Whatever it is, make sure to motivate yourself to stay humble and grounded. And finally, while the statistics don’t often lie, remember that one day after hard work and dedication, you’ll be matched to a dietetic internship, too.
While it is easier said than done, reflecting on your future career in nutrition and dietetics, your passions, experiences, and goals will help you see the importance of your choices. Instead of spending four years tearing down your classmates’ grades, build yourself up and achieve what you can. It all will pay off, even if it is hard to see during midterms week. In the end, becoming an R.D. is all worth it.
Stay humble and motivated, RD2Be’s. And remember who the real competition is: yourself.
P.S. Are you in yet? Check out Get Matched Coaching so you can land the dietetic internship of your dreams.
As the stress of finals week approaches us and the semester comes to an end, a touch of humor that only a dietetics major would understand seems appropriate. These relatable thoughts and moments are brought to you by fellow #RD2Be’s. Read on and enjoy the laughs.
1. THE EXHAUSTION IS REAL
2. FOOOOD EVERYWHERE
3. YES, THAT’S WHAT I DO
4. #OCHEMFORLIFE
5. THEY JUST DON’T
6. #EATRIGHT
7. LIFE TIP
8. THERE HAS NEVER BEEN A TRUER PES STATEMENT
9. “IT’LL BE FINE,” THEY SAID
10. GOOD LUCK WITH THE FINALS, EVERYONE!
P.S. Get Matched Coaching and the Get Matched Course are your secret weapon for DICAS stress! Plus, our match rates are…AMAZING. Learn more about Coaching!
The best way to make an RD2Be laugh? The answer is always food driven hilarity. We asked “What is the worst thing you ever made in food lab?” and the response was superbly sidesplitting. How is it that we can make the perfect healthier style pumpkin bread but a food lab assignment is the hardest thing in the world? We’ll never know…
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There you have it. We can discuss in detail about the structure of amino acids, understand the functions of each vitamin and mineral, but there’s just something about food lab that trips us up… Tag us in your beautiful messes #FoodLabFails!
Halloween is just around the corner, and with all of the happenings going on this weekend, we couldn’t help but post some of the best DIY food costumes circulating the internet. If you need a last-minute costume idea, we’ve got you covered!
After ten years of creating and serving the All Access Dietetics community, I have learned many things about life, nutrition, and community.
For those of you that don’t know the background story on All Access Dietetics, here it goes:
In Fall 2007, I was a senior at the University of Illinois applying to dietetic internships. I was using the Academy’s student forum to connect with other dietetics students and chat about applications. No Facebook groups back then! That’s where I met Katie Hamm (now, Proctor). She posted about an idea to create a catalog of dietetic internship profiles to help people search for the right programs for them. Excited by this, I reached out via Facebook message like a total creep, but through our exchanges back and forth, it confirmed my hunch that we were like two peas in a pod!
In April 2008, I got matched to Massachusetts General Hospital while Katie went into her senior year at Kansas State University. After chatting for months, Katie asked if I wanted to launch the dietetic internship business together and start that summer. Of course, I said yes!
In the summer of 2008, Katie had a P.R. internship in Chicago, and I moved back to my parents in a Chicago suburb before moving to Boston in the fall. During this summer, we created the logo on an air mattress in her un-air-conditioned apartment, found a web developer to be a business partner by stalking computer science majors on Facebook (we could not afford a web developer’s salary!), got a small loan from my lovely grandma, and started painstakingly creating our database for the dietetic internship programs.
To start building hype, we launched All Access Internships (our old name!) Facebook Page had over 1,000 users and was featured in the Academy’s journal before we even found it!
Finally, on Sunday, October 12, 2008, when I was in my Boston apartment and Katie was in Kansas, we launched All Access Internships!
Since then, a lot has happened! Katie decided to move on in 2010 to take on a full-time role in P.R. but has been a coach since then. We launched coaching in 2010, hired a team of coaches in 2012, created the all-inclusive coaching (previously the All-Access Pass) in 2014, and now the Get Matched Program in 2018–a course and coaching experience that takes you through the ENTIRE application process!
Here are ten things I learned after running All Access Dietetics for the last ten years:
1. The community is everything.
The magic of All Access Dietetics is hands down the RD2BE community. Back in 2008, before our epic Facebook group, we had a Google Group that was active and helpful. Looking back, it makes sense because dietitians LOVE helping people, right? The magic in our online community is what makes AAD unique.
2. You guys love funny posts.
We’ve tried a variety of Instagram strategies over the years, from food puns to motivational Mondays to advice and blog posts. But what gets you going is our #YouKnowYoureADieteticsMajorWhen posts! I scour Twitter for the most LOL-worthy tweets from dietetics students and share them on Instagram, and the crowd always goes wild! Check out our Instagram here.
3. Always listen to the users.
Feedback is the breakfast of champions! This was a mantra I have lived by with this business. Early on, there was no Get Matched Course. There wasn’t even coaching! That came from surveys we would send to our users asking how else we could support them through this crazy process.
4. I couldn’t do it all.
Over the years, there were student volunteers, social media interns, dietetic interns, coaches, administrative assistants, coaching coordinators, and other consulting dietitians that all helped make All Access Dietetics go, especially when I was trying to manage two or even three other jobs or projects in the worlds of sports nutrition, writing, and speaking. As an entrepreneur, you have to know when to ask for help and who is the best person to ask. So thank you to those that have been a part of this journey and dealt with my crazy emails at midnight for so many years!
5. This is an ongoing learning process.
In 2017, I decided to hire a business coach to teach me more advanced business skills than those I taught myself over the last decade. As an entrepreneur, I loved testing new ideas and getting feedback, but I was spinning my wheels and not understanding what to do with the input. After bringing in my business coach, I now have a clear vision, a solid model, goals, and a marketing plan that I am confident in and don’t want to change or tweak (which is exhausting) constantly!
6. It comes down to confidence.
Katie and I weren’t supposed to launch a business when we were 21. As students, we weren’t supposed to be experts on getting into a dietetic internship (we weren’t DPD directors!). But we were confident knowing that there was a need. We knew we could fill that need if we listened to our community and gave them what they wanted. So ten years later, because of being an overly confident 21-year-old, this business has gone on to impact thousands and thousands of future dietitians!
7. You have to work for it more than you hope for it.
Consistent hard work is everything. And how did I keep myself going season after season? Well, all I can say is don’t underestimate the power of a reasonable quote. I constantly found a new motivator, kept that motivation consistent and found new ways to do that. For months I would wear my Dream-Believe-Achieve sweatshirt, then it was a quote board with a new quote every few weeks, then a timer reminder that showed a mantra, it was a post-it, then a vision board. I did whatever it took to keep reminding myself that consistent hard work is what it would take.
8. You get what you put into it.
As coaches, working individually with so many students, we teach them how to take ownership of the coaching time and our feedback. It’s hard work, but it pays off in the end. And it’s not just the internship process that they realize this. I follow these clients through their careers and learn that this skill leads to so much more. Former clients become rockstar dietitians doing things like running their businesses, working for Olympic teams, traveling the world, becoming Insta-famous, and more!
9. Let your haters be your motivators.
In the first year of AAD, we had to face some resistance from dietetics educators that were unsure of what we were all about. We learned very quickly how to accept feedback, deal with criticism, and even not take anything personally. 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. Dealing with judgment set me up to handle the stresses and challenges over the next ten years. As a business owner, you have to be vulnerable and also be OK with being judged. Either do something with the information or simply use it as motivation 🙂
10. There’s more to be done!
I’ve been dreaming up to the next ten years and thinking about how I can continue with you on your journey as a dietitian. I hope to continue improving the confidence of future dietitians so that the future of dietetics can make an even more significant impact! When you know how to “sell yourself” to a selection committee, you’ll be more comfortable doing that to employers, clients, and the public. And that’s what dietetics needs!
So everyone, raise your glass of kombucha, and give cheers to a decade of a fantastic RD2BE community and all of the past, present, and future dietitians that have made AAD so great!
P.S. Bonus cheers to February 16, my favorite day of the year 😉
Our coaches have the experience and training to take your dietetic internship application to the next level. Here’s their best advice.
We interviewed our coaches and shared the best application advice they tell their clients, their own application story, any mistakes they made, and how they managed their stress. In addition, they’ll share their favorite moment as a dietetic intern and what they are doing now as a dietitian!
To work with an All Access Dietetics Coach, visit the GET MATCHED COACHING page and get someone in your corner during this stressful process!
Katie Braun MS, RD, LD, CNSC
WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE THAT YOU GIVE YOUR AAD CLIENTS APPLYING TO DIETETIC INTERNSHIPS?
Determine what you want from an internship and research program till you find a good fit! Start your research early, and don’t be shy to ask lots of questions about the program.
WHAT WAS YOUR PERSONAL DI APPLICATION “STORY”?
During my undergraduate work, I began to develop ideas of what I wanted out of my internship experience (pursue a Masters’s in Nutrition, gain a solid clinical background, etc.). After deciding what I wanted, I narrowed my internship search, and I became aware of the Veterans Affairs (VA) program. Their programs offered many aspects of the internship I was looking for. Once I decided to pursue the VA programs, it was looking at the location from there. I applied for two VA programs and was grateful to be accepted into my top choice!
HOW DID YOU GET THROUGH THE STRESS OF APPLYING?
Staying organized during the application process and starting the process early really helped manage the stress of the situation for me. For example, I provided professors with all the requested information in advance for writing letters of recommendation. I researched the program to speak to why I was interested in them in my letter. Keeping on top of the details helped make the process run smoothly.
WHAT MISTAKES DID YOU MAKE WHEN APPLYING TO DIS?
I’m not sure if this is a mistake per se, but in retrospect, applying to only two programs may have limited me.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST FAVORITE MEMORY AS A DIETETIC INTERN?
In the program, I completed interns complete a staff relief rotation before graduation. My favorite memory from my internship is working with my fellow interns during this experience, feeling like a “real” dietitian, and realizing what a fantastic year of learning we made it through! 🙂
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT BEING AN RD?
There are multiple facets of being a dietitian I enjoy. I’m very grateful to be working in the area of Nutrition. I have such interest. I find critical care and nutrition support bring challenges every day. As a dietitian in this area, we can impact patient outcomes with the implementation of evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary teamwork. Critical care medicine (including nutrition interventions) is evolving daily with new research. I enjoy the continuous learning this area of nutrition offers.
I also have the daily opportunity to teach dietetic interns, pharmacy students, and even medical residents through my position! The opportunity to work with students is something I very much enjoy. Students, although they are there to learn, they also teach me so much.
Laura Falconi, RD
WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE THAT YOU GIVE YOUR AAI CLIENTS APPLYING TO DIETETIC INTERNSHIPS?
Pursue opportunities that will set you apart from other applicants and show who you are. Volunteer with an organization that you’re passionate about, strive for leadership roles in your favorite clubs, take extra classes beyond the minimum requirements; initiatives such as these stand out when applying for dietetic internships.
WHAT WAS YOUR PERSONAL DI APPLICATION “STORY”?
While I always aimed for good grades at Clemson, I found my stride by involving myself in extracurricular activities and pursuing leadership roles. I was the President of the Food Science and Nutrition Club, the student representative for the regional dietetic association, a student ambassador, and a student representative for the Dean’s Advisory Board. I loved being a part of so many organizations and getting to represent the nutrition program at Clemson.
When it came time to apply for dietetic internships, I used to a whopping seven programs. I liked so many programs, and I wanted to allow myself to continue researching the internships so I could rank them in a way that I felt content with. I wrote seven individual personal statements and asked my academic advisors, siblings, and peers to edit them. I also made sure to reach out to the director of each internship. I asked for informational interviews and attended as many open houses as possible. I also made sure to send individual “thank you” notes after any open house or interview. On match day, I am so happy to say that I was matched with Cornell University. I will never forget that exhilarating moment when I was reached; it truly felt like all that hard work had paid off right then.
HOW DID YOU GET THROUGH THE STRESS OF APPLYING?
I got through the stress of applying by starting the process early. It was a relief to know that I had given myself plenty of time to work on the DICAS application. I highly recommend starting to research programs early because when the time comes to start applying, you’ll be familiarized with your options and what you need to get done to create an impressive application.
WHAT MISTAKES DID YOU MAKE WHEN APPLYING TO DIS?
My biggest mistake when applying to dietetic internships was obsessing over how to rank the programs. While the program ranking deserves careful consideration, it doesn’t deserve the amount of obsessing that I did. My advice is to put the majority of your energy into making an impressive application and follow your heart when you rank the programs.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST FAVORITE MEMORY AS A DIETETIC INTERN?
My favorite memory as a dietetic intern is working on projects with the other interns. Coming into the internship, I thought I wouldn’t say I liked group projects, but I soon realized that working on an assignment with a group of people who love Nutrition as much as you do is an absolute joy. Throughout the internship, I worked my most challenging and produced my best work to date, and I have the women in my intern class to thank for that.
Adrienne Mangroo, RD
WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE THAT YOU GIVE YOUR AAI CLIENTS APPLYING TO DIETETIC INTERNSHIPS?
Be confident! You have worked (well, should have worked!) very hard in your academic, work, and volunteer lives. Don’t be afraid to show it! So many applicants are so scared of coming off as “cocky.” There is a fine line between cocky and confident, but having the guts to write about how you are an exceptional worker, student, and person (and great future RD) will get you more points than the applicant who can’t express themselves in the same way. I always tell my clients, “If the selection committee can’t see that YOU feel that you’re the best candidate, then why should THEY feel you are the best?”
WHAT WAS YOUR PERSONAL DI APPLICATION “STORY”?
I applied to the VA San Diego Healthcare System (1st choice), UCSF, Los Angeles VA, and Bay Pines VA. I was matched to my first choice, VASD. I had experience in food service (catering, cafes, etc…many years as catering captain/manager) and community nutrition (health outreach associate – taught diabetes classes, cooking classes, etc.). I made myself competitive by expressing my personality while describing my work and academic experience. I highlighted my strengths by explaining how I excelled at various tasks and exceeded the expectations of my teachers and managers. I used each program’s mission statement/value words in my statement to show how I would fit into the program’s organization.
HOW DID YOU GET THROUGH THE STRESS OF APPLYING?
I just pushed through, counting down to February 15th (and April 1st- Matchday) every day! It is a very stressful time, but I started early (I started on my statement in September…and probably had about 100 drafts before my final one!), which allowed me to have some downtime. If I skipped a day or two working on my statement, I didn’t beat myself up over it because I knew that I’d started early enough to allow for it. My friends and I often spent hours at the library (misery loves company!), which was nice because we could bounce ideas off each other and spend time together working on our apps. It is essential to talk to your friends about the application process, but equally as important to have time together where you are NOT talking about it! Give your brain a rest from DICAS!
WHAT MISTAKES DID YOU MAKE WHEN APPLYING TO DIS?
Honestly, I do not feel I made any mistakes during my application process. I started early, worked on some facet of my application almost every day, and I was not afraid to ask for help. Some of the mistakes my peers made included waiting until Christmas break to start the application, not starting DICAS until January, not allowing someone else to proofread resumes and statements, and procrastinating in obtaining letters of recommendation. Timing is everything! Having a lot of time to work on your account means you have time to truly perfect it and tweak it until it is ideal for you.
AT IS YOUR MOST FAVORITE MEMORY AS A DIETETIC INTERN?
…Aside from the day I finished?! I loved almost every day as an intern, but I enjoyed going to ICU rounds the most. My hospital was a large teaching facility, and each day I learned so much at rounds from the attending physician and the resident physicians. Being in rounds was the first time I felt like I was part of an interdisciplinary team (and I felt like I was on the TV show Scrubs… who wouldn’t want that?!), and it made me realize just how passionate I was being about working in critical care.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT BEING AN RD?
I love being an RD because I know I am a practical part of the healthcare team. At my hospital, I am the first RD they’ve had that has been proactive and gone out of her way to make the physicians respect the role of the RD. I work with the doctors and nurses constantly, and many of the “old-school” physicians are learning from me and realizing for the first time that Nutrition does play an integral role in outcomes. While I love teaching my peers (and patients) daily, I also love that I am constantly learning from the physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.
And, while I love that I’m doing my part to help my hospital appreciate the role of the RD, at the end of the day, I love that I’m helping my patients while doing what I love to do (as cheesy as that sounds!). Being an effective RD does take LOVE and PASSION for your specific role. The beauty of dietetics is that there are so many areas that RDs can work in. Getting through the application and internship processes will give you the freedom to discover your niche and practice in the area you’re passionate about.
Katie Proctor, RDN
WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE THAT YOU GIVE YOUR AAI CLIENTS APPLYING TO DIETETIC INTERNSHIPS?
Invest the time tailoring each letter of application to the internship. Now is not the time to take shortcuts and copy/paste the name of the training into each note, especially not for your top choices. Imagine the committee reviewing hundreds of applications in a short period. Everyone starts to look the same on paper. How are YOU going to stand out? In my opinion, it’s by showing that you’ve researched the program and making a case for not only why they are a fit for you but why you are a fit for them.
WHAT WAS YOUR PERSONAL DI APPLICATION “STORY”?
I had very nontraditional work/internship experiences, and those were a big part of my story. I tied those into my strengths of taking the initiative and asking for what I wanted, which is how I landed most of those positions in the first place. Based on that program’s specific focus, I then shared how I would use those strengths to be a positive contributor to the internship program.
HOW DID YOU GET THROUGH THE STRESS OF APPLYING?
Start early! Do not wait until the last minute to gather your materials and start writing your letters of application. You want to have the luxury of time so that you can research, get feedback, edit, etc., to get your notes in the best possible state before submitting them. Lack of preparation and a “rush job” is communicated to the application review committee.
WHAT MISTAKES DID YOU MAKE WHEN APPLYING TO DIS?
I only applied to 4 internships; each was pretty competitive. Knowing what I know now, I probably would have added a few more to be safe.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST FAVORITE MEMORY AS A DIETETIC INTERN?
The lifelong friendships that I made. And of course, dressing up in a banana suit and mom jeans – don’t ask! You’ve got to be ready for anything, especially when it comes to an entertaining and engaging audience.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT BEING AN RD?
I love the variety and flexibility. You could change your job so many times while still using your degree! Not many people can say that.
Moe Schlachter, MS, RD, LD
WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE THAT YOU GIVE YOUR AAI CLIENTS APPLYING TO DIETETIC INTERNSHIPS?
I make sure to tell all of my clients that no experience is insignificant. Too often, an applicant might be inclined to bury a respectable part-time job in the back of their application simply because it wasn’t “nutrition-related.” The DI application process is not a contest of who acquired the most clinical nutrition hours; it evaluates the applicant as a whole. Applicants would be doing themselves a massive favor by highlighting transferrable skills like organization, communication, and adaptability that may have been attained through a non-dietetics position.
WHAT WAS YOUR PERSONAL DI APPLICATION “STORY”?
When I applied for dietetic internships, I was very interested in relocating my family to Houston. I used all DIs in that area, including the highly competitive Michael E. DeBakey VA (who accepted just 10% of applicants that year). I understood that the only “strategy” to employ while ranking internships was placing the training in order of preference and letting the computers sort out the rest. I was thrilled on match day to see that I did match into the program and was happy I did not rank anything above where I wanted to be. My background included a previous degree in business management, a culinary degree, and experience in the culinary field. Though my grades were in great shape, I feel that by highlighting the diversity of my skills, I could stand out to the director of my program.
HOW DID YOU GET THROUGH THE STRESS OF APPLYING?
The DI application process is very stressful indeed. Gathering information early on in the process will help with organizing and planning. A mentor or coach can help through guidance and reassurance. Finally, making sure to take breaks from the process with friends, family, and a significant other will help keep stress levels at bay.
WHAT MISTAKES DID YOU MAKE WHEN APPLYING TO DIS?
The biggest mistake I made as an applicant was not gathering all of the information upfronts. My lack of foresight made for a very stressful final few months before the application deadline. It took a tremendous effort and lots of long nights to get my application in presentation condition in that amount of time. I encourage applicants to tap into the resources at AAI as soon as they start thinking about applying to internships.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST FAVORITE MEMORY AS A DIETETIC INTERN?
As an intern at the Houston VA, my favorite memory, which I am fortunate to continue to live in my current position, was serving United States Veterans. The tangible sense of appreciation conveyed to our nation’s heroes is truly remarkable and is what makes this job so unique. Another great memory from my internship was graduation day. It was certainly bittersweet, as our group had grown quite close over the year, but it was a fantastic sense of accomplishment. Addressing my class as Chairman, receiving my certificate, and the post-ceremony party is moments that will stay with me forever.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT BEING AN RD?
The state of nutrition and food affairs in this country and abroad requires much attention and improvement. I feel that we, as dietetics professionals, are needed to guide policy and conduct research that is needed to make progress. Food is the most fundamental piece of the human health conversation, and we are its primary advocate.
Preceptors are your teachers and mentors during a dietetic internship program. And you, yes you, should be looking for preceptors, too. Here’s why.
Preceptors. Preceptors are the backbone of your internship, they are the Registered Dietitians and other professionals that put the “supervised” in supervised practice hours. Without preceptors there would be no internships!
Dietetic internship preceptors are what keep the dietetics profession going.
Preceptors freely give their time to allow dietetic interns to shadow them and learn how to become a dietitian. When you are with your preceptor you will complete competencies (via experiences and projects) set up by your dietetic internship in order to officially complete the rotation and become a RD. These competencies are necessary to complete your program and become a registered dietitian nutritionist.
Preceptor requirements vary by program and it is best to look at each program’s website for specific preceptor information! To get started, check out Iowa State University’s distance DI and Priority Nutrition Care’s distance DI for examples of how to find preceptors for your dietetic internship.
Why You Might Need Preceptors
Everyone, and I mean everyone, should try searching for preceptors because of the following reasons:
If you are applying to a distance dietetic internship…
Because many of these ask for some or all of your preceptors set up. Here’s my 2-minute video explaining distance DIs. I like distance DIs because they have more spots and anecdotally I found some of my clients with lower GPAs got into distance programs.
If you want / need a unique elective…
Because some traditional DI programs allow you a certain number of weeks/hours and may ask you to find a preceptor for this yourself. Or, even if they have a list to choose from, maybe you want an elective in a specific area and should find a preceptor in that area on your own. For example, I set up my elective with Weber Shandwick, a PR firm in Chicago, which was all my own doing! I got to experience nutrition communications in my DI, and I really enjoyed it.
If you don’t get matched…
Because if you want to do second round matching, often the programs available are distance programs or ISPPs. Many (although not all) distance and ISPPs will require preceptors. If this is what you want to get preceptors for, I suggest you use the time between the deadline and Match Day to focus on your preceptor search. Don’t let it distract you during your application time.
If you want to try for an ISPP…
Again, because ISPPs will pop up on second round and also be available to you after a no-match situation. What’s an ISPP? Check out my video here. Many (not all) ISPPs require preceptors in a similar way that distance DIs do. Again, you want to go to the program’s website for the exact requirements.
How the heck do I find preceptors!?
Get creepy, people. Get rrrrrreal creepy. Reach out to dietitians you know, search on LinkedIn, find past distance interns and see where they did rotations (also via LinkedIn). If you really want to think ahead, try to get a job at a hospital that takes dietetic interns. Then, when you are ready to do the DI, they might be more likely to have you.
If all else fails, get creepy on LinkedIn. Seriously, it works.
Finally, just remember that once you become a dietitian, definitely become a preceptor! The lack of preceptors is actually one of the biggest reasons why the match rate is so low. Remember to pay it forward 😉 And on that note, All Access Dietetics does elective rotations for dietetic interns, so reach out if you need a preceptor for one of those!
P.S. Are you a dietetic intern preparing for the RD Exam? Check out Pass the Exam Tutoring where you can learn the Study Smarter Method and increase your chances of passing the exam!
To “wow” the dietetic internship program selection committee and land the DI of your dreams, take your resume from average to awesome.
As you apply to the dietetic internship program of your dreams, make sure you focus on including your best resume. The resume is meant to tell a story… quickly. Dietetic internship directors and selection committees can glance at your resume and within the first 20 seconds judge you on your organization skills and confidence level just by looking at it. Is it visually appealing? Does it show your experience in an organized way? Does it share enough quality information, or does it look like you are just trying to fill space with desperation and “fluff”?
I’ve seen some pretty average resumes. I’ve also seen some AMAZING resumes. An amazing resume can help you go from an average nutrition student to an outstanding potential intern. Use it as an opportunity to highlight your past, present, and future.
The Resume is Your First Impression. Make it Count!
Take your resume from average –> amazing with this checklist below.
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