Becoming an RD

August 2014!

As healthy eating and nutrition have completely changed my life, it is only natural that I pursue a career in nutrition. The decision to go back to school was not an easy one.

I had just recovered from severe depression and disordered eating (starvation/bingeing) and was not ready to immerse myself fully into being a part of society just yet.

However, I knew it was something I wanted to do… something I had to accomplish for myself.

In school, I've extensively learned about individual nutrients and how they are processed and utilized in the body. To say that there's a great emphasis on science would be an understatement.

I greatly appreciate this aspect as I understand the importance of gaining that solid, research-based foundation. However, as I began to bury my head in books and memorize everything there is to know about each nutrient, I began to lose grasp of why I wanted to become an RD in the first place. I felt tired. Uninspired. Miserable even.

Then I realized it’s because I hadn’t been spending a lot of time in the kitchen playing with food like I used to.

Just like there’s a lab component for science courses to help better understand and conceptualize the material, the kitchen helps bridge the gap between thinking of nutrients in isolation and considering the whole food. For me, it’s the place where I find stimulation.

If you are aspiring to be a Registered Dietitian, I’m so thrilled for you! However, if you are not doing so already, I highly encourage you to get cooking. No excuses (I didn’t even know how to crack an egg until I was 20 and look at me now). It will not only intensify your appreciation for what you are learning, but you and your loved ones will thank you for it ;).

Bottom line: Classroom learning + Being active in the kitchen = The makings of one awesome RD!

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Now onto more specific topics…I will be updating this page throughout my dietetic internship and after. My hope is that you’ll find these posts helpful. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me!

A RD in the Making : my personal story

How to Become a Registered Dietitian

Orientation Week

One Month Into My Clinical Rotations

American Botanical Council Rotation