So You Want to Be a Dietitian

Thank you for your time. First off, what made you decide to become a Dietitian, and when did you make this decision?

I first developed an interest in healthy eating when I was in high school. I used to go through my mother’s recipes and figure out how many calories were in each ingredient and then determine how many calories were in each serving. I also read many health magazines and sought out ways to eat healthy without dieting.

What is your highest level of education, and what was your major?

I received a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition. I have some credits towards my Masters in Food Science and Clinical Nutrition.

What titles do you presently hold, and how did you earn them?

I am a Registered Dietitian (RD) and a Certified Nutrition Support Dietitian (CNSD). The RD required the completion of an internship program and passing an exam. The CNSD required passing an exam.

What is your present position, and by whom are you employed?

I am the Clinical Nutrition Manager for a Hospital on the Island of Oahu in Hawaii.

What are your duties as Clinical Nutrition Manager?

I assess acute care patients’ nutritional status, monitor long-term care patients, educate patients and staff on specific diets, monitor inventory of enteral products, and supervise food service staff in the absence of the food service director.

What do you feel is the most common misconception about nutrition in today’s society?

The most common misconception is that carbohydrates are bad for you. It doesn’t matter where the calorie comes from, whether it’s a fat, protein or carbohydrate, it all boils down to this: Excessive calorie intake will lead to weight gain.

What advice would you give to someone looking to become a dietitian today?

Be certain that nutrition is the field you want to go into. Investigate all options available to you in your specific areas of interest. Network in those areas. Read nutrition and health-related publications.

What is your favorite part of being a dietitian?

Interacting with other health care professionals.

What is your least favorite part of the job?

Note writing because my handwriting is atrocious.

Is there anything you would like to add for those considering this field before the interview concludes?

Don’t get discouraged because there are a lot of options in the field of nutrition. While certain duties may seem monotonous, there is a wide range of jobs for dietitians that offer a tremendous amount of variety.