For those of you who are not familiar, becoming a dietitian is QUITE the journey. You first need to graduate with an undergraduate degree in Nutrition; Dietetics from an accredited DPD (Didactic Program in Dietetics) program and now for 2024 graduates and up, you must obtain a Masters degree in nutrition. After these two degrees, you then complete a 1200+ hour (or in my case 1600+ hour) dietetic internship, and then have to pass the certified board Registered Dietitian exam to become an RDN! After this, you complete 75 units of continuing education credits every 5 years to keep your certification! It’s a process!! So yes, we are called ~dietitians~, not nutritionists!
The internship year, in my opinion, is one of the most valuable experiences of the whole process. It was filled with SO much learning, lots of ups and downs, and lots of “put your big girl pants on” moments. I learned so much about myself and what I am capable of in the professional world. If you’re about to start your internship, WOOHOO! I am SO excited for you and this journey. Here are my top 3 tidbits for you!
1. You Don’t Need To Know Every Little Thing!
Trust me on this one. I was so nervous, thinking I needed to know the answers to everything, and was always stressed when I wasn’t sure of something. But… no one expects you to know the answers to everything. You are an intern! Take this time to be a sponge and absorb it all. You were CHOSEN by your certain program because they saw your foundation and know what you’re capable of bringing to their table…they saved a seat just for you!! Be confident in what you know, you know more than you think you do.
2. Your Fellow Interns Will Be The Best Support, For Real
There is no one better to lean on during this year than another fellow intern! Get to know each other outside of the internship. Whether it’s a cute dinner night, game night, chilling in a local park, going on a bike ride, or having a coffee date, it is so fun to connect and get to know one another on a deeper level. They will be the best support and will know exactly what you’re going through during this next year together.
3. Always, Always Ask Questions and Be CURIOUS!
If you don’t know something… no shame at all!! It is expected that you won’t know all the answers to everything. Always ask clarifying questions. We are all trying to learn as much as we can, right?! Take advantage of being around all these amazing dietitians in your program and pick their brains when you can. Little do they know, you’re making them become a better dietitian for it! I used to carry around a small notebook with me and would be writing things down all day. I would read things over at night before bed. Be curious, stay curious, let that inner science nerd come out and SHINE!
You’re going to have SUCH an amazing year. Take advantage of every opportunity, have fun, and be yourself!
With love,
Sabrina
