The Habits of an Aspiring RD2Be

Hello to my fellow interns to be, or anyone that is just curious about what it’s like to start a dietetic internship! If you feel nervous, confused, or excited with butterflies, I am right there with you. Learning how to plan out my time well has helped me tremendously during the first weeks of the internship.

Continue reading to gain some helpful tips that will put you on the road to success during your internship!

Tip #1: Assess and Plan

With every assignment and task given to you it is crucial that you stay organized!

In the very beginning, I found it challenging to gage how much time each assignment would take. When there are several assignments due at the same time, it is easy for them to pile up. As simple as it sounds, take the time to review what was discussed at your orientation and create a timeline. This can be handwritten, on a planner, or even on a calendar app (i.e Outlook Calendar).

I personally love writing everything down so that I can easily cross out items I have completed as I go.

Tip #2: Project Professionalism

Yes, you are not an RD quite yet, but remind yourself that you will be one very soon! Embrace the characteristics of being a nutrition professional from the very first day of your DI Program: punctuality, reliability, and trust. What does executing each of these look like?

Let’s talk about it:

PUNCTUALITY

Being on time and prepared is the first step of being a working professional. This will demonstrate to your preceptors, DI director, staff, and fellow interns that you are ready to accomplish what needs to get done and respect everyone’s time. Remember this for your first day at a new rotation site; think of it like starting a new job - you want to demonstrate qualities that will display an excellent first impression!

RELIABILITY

Being reliable and trustworthy go hand in hand. Your preceptors are going to assign you projects and ask you to do tasks that you are unfamiliar with. Being in a new environment with a new role can be daunting at times, but remind yourself to trust the process. You can demonstrate this by managing your commitments.

When tasks start to get overwhelming, refer to your plan in Tip #1. Utilize this as a schedule and timeline for the work you need to get done. I encourage you to create an online document, with the tasks and due dates that you can share with your preceptors. This shows you are holding yourself accountable for your own responsibilities.

Tip #3: Take Initiative and be a Team Player

Some of your preceptors and other staff you interact with may be new! They are on a learning journey just like you. While they are there to guide and support you, it is expected that you also take initiative to do what it takes to get the job done. You can demonstrate this by completing assignments with enthusiasm and supporting the team (preceptors and staff members). This starts with having a positive attitude, even in areas that are out of your comfort zone.

Phrases to use when you are new/unfamiliar with work:

• “I have not seen this before, but I am willing to learn how to do it.”

• “No, I have not learned about this yet, but I am looking forward to it.”

Rather than just saying “No” or “I do not know,”using responses like these show your eagerness to learn and excel during your time at the rotation site.

Phrases and questions to show your ability to support the team:

• “What areas of this project can I support you in?”

• “How can I improve my rough draft?’

• “Are there any additional projects that I can help you with?”

• “What is your plan for this project/task ____?”

Asking questions like this showcase leadership qualities and your ability to prepare for what’s coming up next. That’s a wrap for today’s post!

The last piece of advice from me is to dive into each new opportunity with an open mind and heart. Each site will provide you with a unique experience! Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and always greet everyone with a smile.

And…

When you get the chance, explore the new place you are in!