What led you to pursue a career in dietetics?
I’ve always had a strong interest in nutrition and how food makes you feel, and I knew I wanted to work in healthcare. During my first year in undergrad, I decided to take an intro to nutrition course and the rest is history! I felt very inspired by my professor who was a dietitian and immediately began the process of planning my transfer to an accredited program.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
I am currently working in academia, and I love the opportunity to introduce students to our profession. I hope to play even a minor role in the future of strong relationships between other allied health professionals and dietitians. I also love the opportunity to teach young minds about the importance of evidence-based practice.
What advice/suggestions do you have for registered dietitians/nutritionists (especially early career RDNs) to get more involved with volunteer opportunities with the Academy….as you know numbers are dwindling.
Making an effort to stay connected professionally through the Academy has been a game changer for me. Since deciding to become a dietitian, I have lived in 3 different states. The relationships I have made within the Academy have made each transition wildly easier. Not only have I found positions through them, but I have found friends for life and a sense of community.
What are you most proud of thus far in your career?
I am most proud of being a working mom! I feel very fortunate for the flexibility this career path has afforded me. I can work remotely and part time, do something I absolutely love, and utilize my skills/knowledge every day whether at work or at home.
What five foods or beverages do you always have on hand?
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Peanut butter
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Apples
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Dark chocolate
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Nuts/seeds
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Lemon or grapefruit Spindrift
Tell me about your job
Since becoming a dietitian, I have worked in both Corporate Health and Wellness and Academia. I currently am part time faculty at Boise State University in the School of Public and Population Health. What I love about teaching is that it always brings me back to the basics of nutrition and reenforces the importance of our knowledge base. I have always enjoyed research, and I appreciate that working in Academia emphasizes the importance of staying current in literature. Also, I consider it a huge win when I turn a student on to a career in dietetics! In this respect, I do feel an important role in shaping our future as health providers.