Matched to Iowa State University

My hands were clammy and my stomach in a knot when I logged onto DICAS to check the status of my internship application. I felt fairly confident throughout the process, but in the final moments came a surge of doubt. Mostly “Oh crud… I really should have thought of a Plan B.”  

I went into the application process with all my eggs in one basket, assigning Iowa State my top – and only – pick. It met the criteria I needed, and I didn’t see much point in applying to additional internships I couldn’t realistically attend. 

Luckily I was met with good news; matched to Iowa State University! Woohoo!

For those unfamiliar with the credentialing process of the registered dietitian, the internship is the step between the undergraduate degree and the registration exam. It serves as supervised practice to develop the skills needed to be an entry-level dietitian. 

Upon acceptance, Iowa State flooded my inbox with a zillion things to do in less than 72 hours. Welcome webinar, background check, copyright agreement, graduate school application, rotation schedule; yikes! I’m not sure why I thought I would’t have to think about the internship until after graduation, but when it rains, it pours.

With the end of the semester came graduation, and although I did not walk, I never pass up the opportunity to celebrate in good company. Oh… and eat cake! My classmate, Rhonda, organized a dinner at a swanky restaurant downtown. 

While I feel a bit heavy hearted to part ways with peers and professors i’ve grown fond of, it’s neat to think that our paths may cross again as colleagues in the near future.

(Photo credit: Cami Martin)

The next phase of internship preparation required health immunizations, a physical exam, and a little MNT practice with a COPD case study. I completed certifications in Bloodborne Pathogens, HIPAA, and First Aid/CPR/AED. Although, I really hope I don’t find myself in a situation where I need to test that last one!

I thoroughly read through the orientation materials and created a handy “Internship Bible” to keep my rotations organized. If I hadn’t mentioned before, a unique attribute to this internship is that, while accredited by Iowa State, I complete all my rotations at home in Denver!

I ordered my lab coat

Do I look like a dietitian yet? I should probably iron that, ey?

I put in my resignation at work.

I got engaged. Ok, technically that one was not on the “to do” list, but it certainly was a nice surprise! This is one of my favorite photos of us from a backpacking trip in Patagonia (Chile) a few years ago.

With almost everything crossed of my “to-do” list,  I am enjoying the calm before the storm. My goal is to blog throughout my internship to stay close with family and friends, but also provide some insight for those interested in becoming a registered dietitian!