The Road to Becoming an RD

The countdown has officially begun! On Sunday, April 6th, I will know what my future has in store for me, career-wise that is. As you may already know, last January, I graduated with my Bachelors degree in Nutrition from Long Island University and am continuing my journey to become a registered dietitian. In February, I applied to the dietetic internship, my final step before becoming an RD. AH! Even though it's a torturous process, it's an exciting one. I'm always looking for new adventures and experiences, which I'm sure to get if accepted in a program. I have applied to a total of 6 programs and a computer matching program will match me with only one. Surprise!

For those of you who are also on the RD track or interested in joining the bandwagon, I have created a guide on how to become a registered dietitian and have provided you with some of my best tips!

How to Become a Registered Dietitian

1st: Undergraduate Degree
The road to become a registered dietitian requires a lot of dedication and hard work. Like any career path, there are many bumps in the road and bridges to cross before reaching your goal. The first step is to get your Bachelors Degree in nutrition and dietetics from a university that is accredited by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. You can find a list of accredited universities on the eatright website. The curriculum includes classes such as Medical Nutrition Therapy, Community Nutrition, Food Service Management, Nutrition Communications, Advanced Nutrition, Anatomy & Physiology, and Chemistry. During this time, you know, while you're trying to get straight A's and have a social life, it is important to gain as much experience as possible outside of the classroom. The options are endless! Experience within a hospital, community, and food service setting will be advantageous on your application to the dietetic internship.

2nd: Dietetic Internship
The dietetic internship is your second step towards becoming a registered dietitian. There are two internship paths - a one year dietetic internship or a two year combined Masters Degree and dietetic internship. The ever-so-handy eatright website contains a list of dietetic internships throughout the country. The internship provides you with hands-on experience in the field. You will take graduate classes and be placed in a variety of settings to fulfill the role of a dietitian.

3rd: RD Exam
You've completed your internship, so you're finally ready...to study! In order to receive the title of a registered dietitian, you must pass a national examination. But, the road doesn't end there. As a registered dietitian, you are committed to a lifetime of learning. To maintain the "RD" credential, a certain number of continuing education credits are required each year. Since I haven't gotten this far yet, I'm going to leave the rest for another day. For now, I'll leave you with this...

Good luck to all the nutrition students awaiting match day!

The Nutrition Student's Guide to FNCE 2013

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Food and Nutrition Conference is right around the corner. This year, it is being held in Houston, TX, beginning October 19th, 2013. As a young professional, who is just starting to make a name for myself, FNCE is the perfect networking opportunity. Thousands of dietitians from around the country gather together to meet each other and learn about upcoming nutrition trends. The only way I can explain this web of emotions is almost like going to the Oscars. Dietitians who I consider famous and who have been stealing the spotlight on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest suddenly become real, walking the same halls as... moi. Imagine coming face-to-face with Ryan Gosling or George Clooney. The typical girl would probably look something like this: pale as a ghost, weak at the knees, and stumbling over her own words. Well, that's probably someone like me, when I come to face-to-face with an A-list dietitian. I sure hope I'm not the only one who would feel this way, which is why I have created a handy dandy guidebook to get you (aka ME) through this Hollywood scene of stardom.

1. It's not what you know, it's who you know. 

The definition of networking is forming connections. These connections, or relationships  may just offer substantial benefits, like a job, or a referral. Networking also allows for the exchange of ideas, feedback, or a new perspective on a familiar topic. For students, speaking with experts in the field can lead to invaluable advice as we take our first steps towards becoming a registered dietitian. By putting ourselves out there and in-the-know, we have allowed ourselves to gain leadership skills which look all so important on dietetic internship applications. 

2. Make goals and commitments. 

I admit, sometimes I'm a little shy, which is even more of an incentive to speak up! In order to prepare yourself to let your personality shine, devise a plan. Make a mental note to introduce yourself to a specific number of people and collect this number of business cards. To accomplish these goals, you may have to get out of your comfort zone and physically make yourself visible in the room.  

3. Dress to impress. 

This is a professional event, not an 8am biology class. According to The Network Journal, about 55% of a first impression is based on how you present yourself. A first impression can be formed within as little as seven seconds of meeting, leaving little time to make it a lasting one. An appropriate wardrobe, proper posture, and a winning smile will create instant connections and will ultimately make you memorable.

4. Follow up for lasting connections.

You have said hundreds of hellos and your bag is filled with business cards. Now what? Keep in touch! Networking involves staying in touch with the connections you have made. Send an email to those who really stood out, thanking them for their time or advice. A thank you card can go a long way, if someone really stood out in your mind. Attend events regularly to become recognizable. You, too, can offer important resources and information. Send an invitation to an upcoming event or a recent article that pertains to a topic of conversation you had. 

Most importantly, be yourself! Confidence is key. 

...And don't overindulge at the expo.