Writing your personal statement

I'm not going to lie, I flipped out when I started drafting my personal statement. I was very much like this kid on the left.
I had no idea of what I wanted to write about or discuss in my paper--I knew I was known for going on rabbit trails, so I sought out some help.
First, my very own best friend was completing the nutrition program with me and before she did she majored in communications at UF. I discovered that she was an exceptional writer  and I quickly acknowledged her skills. She had serious talent. As her close friend, she was willing to help me--so my advice, find someone you trust that can go over your statement and tell you the facts about your drafts and someone who is willing to guide you through the process.

Secondly, I visited the ACE center at UNF, for those of you reading this that are not familiar with what that is it is a general tutoring center that offers free academic skills workshops. This is HIGHLY recommended. I submitted my paper (twice) and the tutors are friendly and resourceful. Simply schedule an appointment {based on your availability} and have them read and edit your paper.

I'm positive you're asking yourself, "What do I place in my statement, what do I say, what do I write about?" Those are all great questions--and I'm here to help.
I discovered that FSU's "Writing a personal statement" was advantageous. It offers a list of questions, tips, common mistakes, and the do's and don'ts of writing a paper. Plus it offers an evaluation chart that helps you assess if you're on the right track. It was perfect.

Remember to answer all of the questions your *future* program director wants to hear--EVERY internship is different so I would recommend writing a general personal statement then answering their questions on separate drafts. You don't want to submit a paper to Delaware when it was intended for Michigan, and so forth.

I would recommend no more than 3 pages. It needs to be direct and to the point, no sappy stories and "passionate" reasons of why you want to become a dietitian. Plus, I believe DICAS has limited your statements to a numbered amount of characters. I've attached mine for a demonstration, but please note that if you abstract any of the writing that this is considered plagiarism. Everyone's writing should be similar to a fingerprint, unique and demonstrates their own characteristics.

I wish you the very best on your journey to becoming future registered dietitians.
I hope this helps, and of course if you have any questions then please don't hesitate to ask!

Have a healthy week!

Where in the world do I search for preceptors, and how do I begin?

 

The thing about distance learning (DL) programs is that you most likely have to place in MUCH more effort than your colleague who is just applying to programs such as Mayo Clinic's dietetic program or Duke University Hospital's program. Why? Because those programs already have professionals set in place to train and mentor the students throughout the length of the program. DL internships are as organized as you design them to be--for example, if you begin the process early and search for "backup" preceptors then you're anticipating problems that could occur. This means you have a Plan B, C, D, E, and so forth. However, if you start the process later in the semester and all of a sudden one of your preceptors backs out, what will you do?

Therefore, not only will you begin searching for preceptors early, create multiple plans, begin earlier than your comprades but you have to also do EVERYTHING else that is involved with DICAS. *sigh* I think I just had a small panic attack thinking about my Senior year-fall semester.

I didn't have anyone to talk to about this process besides my professors and they only knew so much about the entire process. So, here I am-wanting to give back to my future colleagues (you) because I find it extremely important (and rewarding) to guide those who are in need of help. This process, if taken, can be very stressful. I only broke down like 5 times....not counting all the times I either fell asleep crying or woke up crying. My husband probably thought I was PMS'ing that entire semester plus the first 6 weeks into the spring semester.

I'm here to help you search for preceptors--now, I may not help you find actual preceptors but I will guide you towards beneficial resources and provide helpful tips to begin your journey.

My first stop-- The almighty Academy. To view the website you have to be a member. Now, the site is forever confusing so if you can't access that link visit the ACEND site or simply Google "Find a preceptor on Eatright" and it will be the first link.

Next stop, go to your local association such as The First Coast Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Network, network, network. If you're an introvert, then practice "networking" with a friend by acting out what you would say to an RD or health professional that can connect you with your future preceptor. It may seem silly, but if you really want this then you will 'go after it.'

Thirdly, remember all those hours you spent volunteering at the food bank, local garden, hospital, or health clinic?? Use their resources and pick their brains! You'll never know if they can help connect you with a professional or organization if you don't investigate. I found a preceptor and had a strong letter of recommendation from my volunteering experiences. If you're a junior reading this then ask if you could help them with any projects and begin to build rapport with them. They will more likely help you in the long run if they don't feel abused and used. 

Next, you could invest in resources such as All Access Internships if need be. Jenny has a TON of informative videos and she'll offer wonderful advice. You can follow her on Twitter, FB, and YouTube. 

Lastly, look over the internships that you have chosen. {It's ok if you haven't finalized your list. I still had my 'A strong Yes, Yes, Maybe, and Last Choice' lists until December. hah!} I would suggest contacting the program directors (of the programs who you are most likely going to apply for) and request if they could send you a list of preceptors in your area, if they have one. Not all programs save former preceptor information but I have benefited from several that have. LIFE SAVER. 

That's all for today! Let me know if you have any questions or concerns. 

Until next time, have a healthy week!