Conclusion
My learning outcomes and artifacts connect important facets of dietetics into the bigger picture. The majority of them discuss the importance of using an intercollaborative approach, maintaining knowledge of current research and trends, the interrelationship of micro- and macronutrients and the pivotal role they play in each and every patient or client we meet, and the need for breaking down the science into relatable information in different formats for various populations. The 1200 hours of supervised practice rotations and coursework I completed during the CP taught me which areas I am confident in and which areas I can continue to improve in. One area I feel I need to improve is my knowledge of healthcare policy and trends as well as my advocacy skills. I attended a legislative event during the CP and I was fortunate enough to speak with my legislator about the importance of RDs in healthcare. This experience was unexpectedly exciting; I plan to be more involved in legislation as an RD and continue to learn more about healthcare policy, laws, and regulations involving nutrition.
Some of my favorite experiences during the CP were my clinical rotations. I completed my acute and critical rotations at Grady Memorial Hospital, downtown Atlanta, and my enrichment at Northeast Georgia Medical Center, Gainesville. It was in these three rotations that I learned the most. These rotations allowed me to realize how much I enjoy clinical work and the inpatient setting. The counseling class and the simulation lab I participated in my first semester of the CP prepared me to perform nutrition interviews and effectively counsel patients in the hospital setting. I believe this, combined with my ability to maintain a heavy patient caseload, without losing sight of the details will allow me to become a successful clinical RD. In addition to working in a hospital setting, I also aspire to become a Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD). Referring back to my philosophy statement, I have always loved two things: volleyball and food. I have either played or coached volleyball for as long as I can remember and want to tie my passion for volleyball and dietetics together as a CSSD working with volleyball players in the Atlanta area.
My plan of action for continued professional development is to keep up with research, network frequently, utilize an intercollaborative approach, and to become a preceptor. Nutrition and dietetics is constantly evolving based on the latest research and data available. As an RD, it is vital to your career that you know what information is out there and how to decipher between fact and fad. Networking with other professionals will get my name out there as well as encourage consistent learning from more experienced RDs. Utilizing an intercollaborative approach is something that has been embedded into our training since beginning the CP. Working with doctors, nurses, and other members of a healthcare or sports medicine team is key to providing the most efficient and beneficial patient care. I feel strongly about becoming a preceptor in order to teach and mentor dietetic interns and CP students the way my preceptors have done for me. The world of nutrition and dietetics is constantly evolving; we must strive to become leaders in the field and continuously improve professionally.
The CP has allowed me to grow professionally and individually. It has taught me many things about the RD I want to become and what I am passionate about in the world of nutrition. My philosophy stands: balance and moderation are key in nutrition. There are no bad foods; everything can be enjoyed and indulged upon in moderation as part of a healthy lifestyle. I believe individuals come to us at different stages of readiness but with the right tools, each individual has the power to make healthy choices. It is important to work with clients and patients where they are but to empower them and show them where they can go. I will remember to never stop learning in order to provide evidence-based information to others and to maintain the integrity of our profession as RDs. Although the CP has come to an end, I look forward to where life as an RD will take me.
Some of my favorite experiences during the CP were my clinical rotations. I completed my acute and critical rotations at Grady Memorial Hospital, downtown Atlanta, and my enrichment at Northeast Georgia Medical Center, Gainesville. It was in these three rotations that I learned the most. These rotations allowed me to realize how much I enjoy clinical work and the inpatient setting. The counseling class and the simulation lab I participated in my first semester of the CP prepared me to perform nutrition interviews and effectively counsel patients in the hospital setting. I believe this, combined with my ability to maintain a heavy patient caseload, without losing sight of the details will allow me to become a successful clinical RD. In addition to working in a hospital setting, I also aspire to become a Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD). Referring back to my philosophy statement, I have always loved two things: volleyball and food. I have either played or coached volleyball for as long as I can remember and want to tie my passion for volleyball and dietetics together as a CSSD working with volleyball players in the Atlanta area.
My plan of action for continued professional development is to keep up with research, network frequently, utilize an intercollaborative approach, and to become a preceptor. Nutrition and dietetics is constantly evolving based on the latest research and data available. As an RD, it is vital to your career that you know what information is out there and how to decipher between fact and fad. Networking with other professionals will get my name out there as well as encourage consistent learning from more experienced RDs. Utilizing an intercollaborative approach is something that has been embedded into our training since beginning the CP. Working with doctors, nurses, and other members of a healthcare or sports medicine team is key to providing the most efficient and beneficial patient care. I feel strongly about becoming a preceptor in order to teach and mentor dietetic interns and CP students the way my preceptors have done for me. The world of nutrition and dietetics is constantly evolving; we must strive to become leaders in the field and continuously improve professionally.
The CP has allowed me to grow professionally and individually. It has taught me many things about the RD I want to become and what I am passionate about in the world of nutrition. My philosophy stands: balance and moderation are key in nutrition. There are no bad foods; everything can be enjoyed and indulged upon in moderation as part of a healthy lifestyle. I believe individuals come to us at different stages of readiness but with the right tools, each individual has the power to make healthy choices. It is important to work with clients and patients where they are but to empower them and show them where they can go. I will remember to never stop learning in order to provide evidence-based information to others and to maintain the integrity of our profession as RDs. Although the CP has come to an end, I look forward to where life as an RD will take me.
Click through the photos below to see some of my other experiences in the CP!