And That's A Wrap, Folks!
As I am wrapping up the DI program year, it feels so bittersweet to reflect on all that I have learned, seen, heard, and done. They say, “the older you get, the more time flies” and they (whoever that may be) were right! These past ten months showed me many of the amazing and unique pathways the nutrition field has to offer. This time of learning also taught me that it takes a variety of personalities, passions, and skill sets to be successful in the different avenues of dietetics. With everything I learned throughout the program year, I know one thing for certain - there is a unique path for me as an RDN. I began this journey intending to become a Sports Dietitian, a path I have been passionate about since I began college; but now, I feel inspired to own my own private practice one day! Having the chance to intern in so many different areas of nutrition while helping a variety of individuals in need of nutrition support and guidance has motivated me to continue to help others in need. Having the chance to intern with youth populations and having an innate love for kiddos has brought to light my desire to pursue a private practice career combining my love for nutrition and children - a career path I believe would be the most rewarding for me intrinsically.
After hearing stories shared with me by preceptors and coworkers at my rotations, I know that the path to a career is far from a straight one. Life never fails to throw us curve balls - a reality well known to us interns who have now spent a third of our internship working remotely because of COVID-19 restrictions. However, I know that the windy road that leads us to where we end up is also the best way to learn and grow. Many of the preceptors showed this to be true, having shared their personal journeys, telling me about working in jobs they liked and some they loathed, having finally discovered the careers they love now. A big take-away from this internship has been the reminder that the best dietitians are those who have gained work experience in many avenues of the nutrition profession. You must experience a multitude of opportunities to identify which one fits your passions best. I have also come to recognize that there is no one “perfect” position for each person. Rather, many of my preceptors had their “hands in many pots” so to speak. To have many things you care about and can work at may be the truest reward of working in this field. I have learned that a job title comes with far more description and responsibility than what meets the eye. Most of my preceptors did not stay in one lane, but rather, took part in many different work responsibilities. From nutrition and health, to gardening, cooking, and eating, or physical fitness, I discovered that most nutrition professionals do a lot more than “dietitian”!
Throughout the course of this program year, the lessons I learned and passions I discovered were countless. Some of the most valuable things I learned and will carry with me into my next chapter include…..
Do not be afraid to take a position that is not where you thought you would be working. Something positive will come from it - networking, a newfound passion, or a lesson learned.
Love what you do and do what you love! The nutrition field has so many pathways to take - learn and grow from each avenue you pursue and one day, you will find what your calling is and that is when you will love what you do.
Nutrition is truly beautiful and powerful. Use it to help, inspire, motivate, and fuel others.
With each unique experience I took part in, I grew more confident in my abilities, I gained new skill sets to keep building upon and I discovered many new passions to incorporate into my life. I now head into the work force ready for the many opportunities that might come my way and I feel confident that my best path will find me. I am motivated to take the lessons I learned throughout these past ten months and apply them as I go. I know that a career I am going to love will present itself to me and that each new experience along the path that leads me there will help me become the best dietitian I can be! I have faith in this because I saw all the wonderful dietitians and nutrition professionals around me loving what they do!
