How and why did you choose this career?

A. Originally I chose this career in college, but throughout high school I had food service jobs that helped me expand my food choices and interest in nutrition. I was introduced to the field of dietetics through the dietitian at a job at a retirement center. However, I didn't think of it of a long-term career choice then. When I started college, I knew I wanted to do something in health but those first two years I didn't really know. I explored the field of medical technology but found out that working in a lab without a lot of people interaction wasn't for me.  I started to look into other Allied Health programs and took some nutrition classes and immediately knew it was for me!

What does a typical day in your work life look like?

A. Within my job as a project director for Montana Team Nutrition (it's basically the nutrition education component of the school meal programs for K-12 schools), we do a lot of education and training. My typical day might be planning an upcoming professional development workshop for school food service personnel. Just today, we got asked to conduct a garden-based nutrition education workshop for MSU extension agents. Sometimes we're in the office, but we also work on pilot projects with schools statewide so travel around the state often. One of our past projects was researching the use of a "Recess Before Lunch" policy.. We are currently working on a Smarter Lunchroom project which is all about marketing nutrition by the design of the cafeteria to nudge kids into making healthy choices.
   

What are your working conditions like?

A. As project director, I employee five other professional staff, one administrative staff and one student employee. We work as a team in completing our work plans to reach kindergarten through grade 12 school staff, parents and community members.  I feel fortunate to work at Montana State University as can collaborate with MSU Extension, faculty and other community health programs.

What educational requirements are needed for your career?

A. To become a registered dietitian you have to complete a bachelor's degree in dietetics or a coordinated program in dietetics; complete 1200 hours of a supervised practice through an ACEND accredited Dietetic Internship, and pass a national exam. Continuing education requirements are also required throughout a number of years in order to maintain credentials. For more information go to www.eatright.org click on "Become an RD/RDN/DTR".  In most states, including Montana, dietitians are also required to become licensed through the state medical board.  This public safety measure ensures the public receives science-based nutrition facts and information from licensed nutrition professionals.

What skills and abilities are necessary in your profession?

A. Communication is a key skill for a dietitian because you're either teaching, counseling, or clarifying information. Another skill is to understand the science, but make it understandable and simple to the public.  Using food as a teaching tool is fun and delicious! In my job, it is important  to be team oriented and want to collaborate with others in facilitating positive environmental changes to school settings.

Any final thoughts?