Feb 6, 2019
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Yoooo y'all have no idea how badly I wanted this. 😭🎉✨🎓 One exam away from being a registered dietitian!!! 2018 has been so good to me so far. 🙌🏾🙌🏾
What I Learned from my Dietetic Internship
Hey everybody!
It’s been a while, hasn’t it??
Hope you’re all doing well! Can’t believe I only have 5 weeks left of my dietetic internship. It went fast, but at the same time, I feel like I’be been in it for FOREVER. I know the DICAS deadline was just a few days ago, so I thought I’d do a little write up of everything I’ve learned throughout this crazy process in order to prepare you for what is to come ;)
1. You’re not going to love every rotation.
There were a few rotations that I absolutely dreaded. I would just sit in my car in the parking lot until theeee last possible second before I had to go in. There was even one day during my 2nd week of my internship were I just came home crying due to frustration (not my finest moment). But guess what? It doesn’t last forever! Some days just feel so long, but you have to remind yourself that you aren’t going to be there forever and that better rotations are ahead.
2. You will find things you had no idea you would love.
My first day in the ICU, I was absolutely terrified. I didn’t want to look at anything (I clearly didn’t make this obvious to my preceptors, but I was definitely freaking out in my head) and I went home thinking about every single patient I saw that day. I hated it! But guess what? That ended up being one of my favorite rotations once I got used to it. I even spent a few extra days there since I ended up loving it so much. Don’t make up your mind about things right away!
3. Your preceptors are either the best people ever, or the worst.
I’ve had preceptors who are absolutely incredible, and I’ve also had some that don’t really care all that much. Some preceptors you will look up to, while others will be reminders of how you don’t want to be. You don’t have to be best friends with the tough ones, but remember to always write a thank you card. And bring cake to your favorite ones, because nothing says “I love you, please hire me in the future” like a nice piece of cake ;)
4. Treat yo’self
You’re working your butt off, so remember to give yourself a little something now and again. Your budget might be close to nonexistent, but a little coffee, pair of shoes, or a new pair of workout pants can do wonders.
5. Remember to workout!
I was worried about finding time to workout during my internship, because that was literally the only thing that keeps me sane. There are days when I would wake up at 5am just to haul myself to the gym. You might be half awake, but it’s really the best way to start the day and you won’t have to worry about doing it later when you get off. And if you can’t make it to the gym, Tone it Up YouTube videos were my saving grace.
6. You don’t know everything.
Of course you want to impress your preceptors, but don’t do it by spouting off everything you know about a particular subject. There are times where you just need to be quiet and listen to what they have to say. There is a time and a place to show off what you know, and they probably won’t be too eager to teach you if you come off as a know it all. On the other hand, don’t be afraid to ask questions. I probably asked 100 questions every single day during my clinical rotations. If you don’t ask, you’ll never know, right?
7. Nobody knows everything.
At the same time, it’s also important to remember that nobody knows everything, so don’t be shy when you’re asking questions or too intimidated by someone. Some of my preceptors who have been in the field for 30+ years still have to look things up if they aren’t sure on a subject. Better safe than sorry! Nobody is impressed if you pretend you know something and then screw it up because you were too afraid to look it up or ask.
8. Reach out to others where you are working at.
During my clinical rotations, I learned so much from doctors, nurses, PTs, etc. You might be afraid at first to talk to others outside of your preceptors, but you can really learn a lot from them. I loved going to rounds during my clinical rotations, because each profession got to share so many different things that I learned so much from.
9. Take opportunities!
I had a couple opportunities to scrub into a few different surgeries, and I am so glad I did! I used to be so freaked out and intimidated by anything surgery related but now I wish I could go back to school and be a surgeon (transplant surgeon especially. But that’s another day, another blog post ;). The first one I scrubbed in on, I was convinced that I would just pass out...or throw up. I was shaking for the first 20 minutes I was in there. But it was seriously the coolest thing I’ve ever seen! It gives you a whole new perspective and appreciation for the miracle of medicine.
10. Don’t have the “I’m working for free” attitude.
Seriously, just don’t. Yes, you are technically working for free (or in many cases, paying to work there), but don’t have that mindset. You’ll just get resentful and hate everything. You’re working for experiences that will make you an excellent future dietitian #amiright
11. Have fun with your fellow interns.
Get to know the other interns in your group. My internship group did our grad school work first, so we got to know each other in our classes. But during the internship, we met every so often for happy hours and it really made it a good experience since we were all mostly friends and it was fun to blow off steam with others who know exactly what we are going through.
12. Enjoy yourself, take pictures, have fun!
Your internship doesn’t last forever (hallelujah), so be sure you are making the most of it. Take pictures, say yes to anything that comes your way, make connections, and leave a good impression.
So that’s that! Crazy that I’m almost done.
Anyone out there apply to internships this round? Let me know!
xoxo,
The Dorm Dietitian
What I Learned in Grad School
Hi everyone!
So sorry it’s been a long time since I’ve posted! As you can tell from the title, I’m in grad school...and definitely learned a lot. I’m in a combined dietetic internship and grad school, so this year I did my coursework and a research thesis. It’s been quite a ride! I decided to write down all of the things I found out, since a lot of it threw me for a loop. So if you’re going to grad school soon, this post is for you!
1. TIME. MANAGEMENT. I cannot stress this enough. Buy a planner, because it will be your new best friend. I found it best when I had each week planned out so I knew everything I had coming that week. Slacking off isn’t a thing in grad school...it will come back and bite you in the butt, big time.
2. If you have to work, get a job in an area that doesn’t involve what you study. I could have gotten a job as a diet tech or something else, but I decided to work at a gym instead. A lot of my other friends worked nutrition jobs and ended up being super burned out. I loved working at a gym, and the free membership was great with my grad school budget (and saved my sanity at times). It might not help your resume much, but it’s a nice break from the books.
3. Be a teaching assistant. My school offered a TA program where if you worked for a professor for so many hours a week, you got a discount on your tuition and a paycheck. That was a definite perk for me, but it was also a fantastic learning experience. I was the TA for a medical nutrition therapy class (which was my favorite class in undergrad), and I learned a lot. Teaching others is the best way to teach yourself! It helped me get over my fear of speaking in public, I built a great relationship with a wonderful professor, and I can probably teach your dog how to calculate a TPN. And those paychecks are great.
4. Take breaks. There were times I completely overloaded myself, and the burnout is real. Try to make time for yourself, even if it’s a 15 minute workout video or a quick walk around the block.
5. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. This was a lesson I really learned this year, and I’m glad I did. I was usually one to shy away from asking other people for help, because I didn’t want them to think I couldn’t do or handle something. Take it from me, don’t do that!
6. Go shadow someone who has a job in your desired field. When I was up to my eyeballs in things I really didn’t love and was ready to quit, I shadowed an RD who works in the field I want to be in. That will help remind you to keep going!
7. Make time for your family! I’m sure I drove mine nuts with all of my ranting or having them read copy after copy of my thesis, but take time for them.
8. Practice what you preach. We are studying to help give others a healthy lifestyle, but don’t forget to do that for yourself! If you’re eating a crappy diet or not exercising, you aren’t doing yourself any favors.
9. Don’t say yes to things you don’t really want to do. This was another hard lesson for me to learn, but your time is too valuable to waste. Your sanity will thank you.
So that’s that! I still have a thesis to finish and a summer school class but I see the light at the end of the tunnel :)
What have you learned in grad school? Any advice for others?
How to Become a Registered Dietitian in NJ
Becoming a Registered Dietitian (RD) in New Jersey is a fulfilling career choice if you are interested in nutrition and health and wish to improve people's lives. Dietitians play a critical role in promoting well-being by creating individualized nutrition programs, educating the public, and addressing a range of diet—and lifestyle-related health issues.
This guide will describe the procedures needed to become a Registered Dietitian in New Jersey, including coursework, licensing, and opportunities for professional development. Let's examine the route to this rewarding profession.
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree in Nutrition or a Related Field
Completing an approved bachelor's degree program in dietetics, nutrition, or a similar discipline is the first requirement to become a Registered Dietitian. The Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and
Dietetics (ACEND) ought to accredit the course.
Important Coursework:
Nutrition in Humans
Science of Food
Nutrition Therapy for Medical Conditions
Biochemistry
Physiology
Microbiology
Most ACEND-accredited programs combine classroom education with practical experiences, such as food labs and community nutrition initiatives.
New Requirement for 2024:
A master's degree will be necessary to take the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) exam as of January 1, 2024. If you intend to follow this vocation, you must finish a graduate degree as part of your educational path.
Step 2: Complete a Dietetic Internship (DI)
Completing a supervised Dietetic Internship (DI) is the next step after receiving your bachelor's degree. These internships give students hands-on experience in various dietetics fields, including community health, clinical nutrition, and food service management.
Time and prerequisites:
Usually lasting six to twelve months, internships involve 1,000 to 1,200 hours of practice under supervision.
Internships can be finished as a stand-alone experience or as a component of a graduate program.
How to Locate an Internship:
The Dietetic Internship Centralized Application Services (DICAS) is the only way to apply for internships. Because matching is rigid, you can improve your chances of getting accepted by maintaining a high GPA and accumulating relevant volunteer or professional experience.
Step 3: Succeed on the CDR Test
After your internship, you will be qualified to sit for the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) Exam. You must pass this test to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN).
Overview of the Exam:
There are multiple-choice questions on the computer-based test.
Food and nutrition sciences, clinical applications, food service systems, and management are among the subjects discussed.
Professional associations, review courses, and the CDR website offer study materials.
Step 4: Get a New Jersey license
Dietitians must receive a license to practice in New Jersey. The New Jersey State Board of Dietetics governs licensure.
Qualifications for Licensure:
Evidence of finishing a program approved by ACEND.
Proof that the CDR exam was passed.
Applying for licensure and paying the necessary costs.
After obtaining your license, you must fulfil continuing education requirements regularly to renew it.
Step 5: Maintain Credentials and Stay Up to Date
Continuous education is necessary to keep up with industry changes and maintain your RDN credential. The CDR requires 75 continuing professional education units (CPEUs) every five years.
Involvement in pertinent webinars, workshops, and business gatherings.
Additionally, networking opportunities, resources, and support can be obtained by joining professional associations such as the New Jersey Dietetic Association (NJDA) or the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND).
New Jersey's Registered Dietitian Career Opportunities
In New Jersey, there are a variety of work options for registered dietitians in:
Clinical Settings: Clinical settings include outpatient clinics, hospitals, and assisted living facilities.
Community health: Community health includes wellness centres, schools, and public health initiatives.
Private Practice: Providing individualized dietary guidance.
Corporate wellness: creating initiatives for staff members.
Research and academia: carrying out investigations or instructing aspiring dietitians.
Because more people are realizing the importance of nutrition and health, there is a rising need for dietitians in New Jersey, which makes it a great place to work in this field.
FAQs
1. How long does becoming a New Jersey registered dietitian take?
After earning a bachelor's degree, passing the CDR exam, and completing a dietetic internship, being a registered dietitian typically takes five to seven years. This time frame can take longer if you study for a master's degree.
2. How much does it cost to become a Registered Dietitian?
The prices may differ depending on your internship and school institution. The annual cost of tuition for a bachelor's or master's degree might vary from $20,000 to $50,000. The CDR exam fee (around $200), internship application fees, and New Jersey licensing fees are further expenses.
3. Do I need a license to practice dietitianry in New Jersey?
No, one must be licensed to practice as a nutritionist in New Jersey. Operating without a license may have legal repercussions and limitations.
4. Is it possible to become a Registered Dietitian through online programs?
Many bachelor's and master's degree programs that have earned ACEND accreditation provide online education. A dietetic internship, however, requires in-person supervision of practice.
Concluding remarks
In New Jersey, becoming a registered dietitian (RD) is a rigorous procedure that requires commitment, learning, and practical experience. If you follow these steps and remain dedicated to your objectives, you'll be ready to start a rewarding career in nutrition and dietetics. Working as a registered dietitian (RD) can have a long-lasting effect on the health of your community, whether you're assisting individuals in improving their health or tackling more general public health issues.
I passed the exam I scheduled to take today & have two weeks to prep for & take another exam. Then I’ll only have my exit to take + whatever internship paperwork or case study stuff I have left by that time.
I’m almost at the end of this dang internship 😭🙌🏼
I started my WIC rotation today, and I enjoyed my day. I had an amazing view for a good bit of my hour long drive to and from the location, and my preceptor is super nice.
It’s only been a day, and I feel like I’ve learned a lot already. I’m excited to work with the other WIC RD’s & hope they are just as nice and helpful as preceptors.
Thoughts Pre-Dietetic Internship
There is definitely a time period where you will be waiting for the internship to start. Internships are very different from one another and that’s what makes one internship more enticing over another. However, I think that internships can do some things across the board:
1. Lab Coat/Ceremony - With the costs of internships, including a lab coat as part of those fees/tuition should be factored in. We are paying thousands out of pocket, possibly less than a hundred of that could go towards a lab coat or 2 for the interns.
2. Provide Better Intern Mentorship - Having friends go through the internship before me and currently in the same position, the mentorship and guidance is rare. The guidance that is available is either not easily out there or it has to be paid for. Some DPD programs will give you great insight to the future, but the internships themselves aren’t always adequate.
3. Distance Internships - Distance internships are up and coming. They are excellent for many who want to create their own experience, however, finding preceptors/sites is very difficult for many people. RDN’s need to step up to the plate and become preceptors.