- Where are you from?
Jackson, GA - Why did you choose to study nutrition? Was there a specific person, experience, or event that sparked your interest?
I knew I wanted to work with and help people get to a healthier state of living. While working towards my undergraduate degree, I realized the help I wanted to offer didn’t focus on recovery, but on prevention. There are many facets within the field that allow you to help individuals by acting preventively to sustain a long, healthy life. - What nutrition program were you a part of at GSU? What made you choose your program?
I was a part of the Nutrition Science Undergraduate program. I chose this program because of the school’s focus on community health. It was also an opportunity to get to know the professors if I chose to pursue the Coordinated Program to become a Registered Dietitian. - What was your favorite thing about the nutrition program? What were some of your biggest takeaways?
I loved that the professors took time to bring in professionals in the field. It allowed me to explore different options within the nutrition field before I graduated. - Did you have any assistantships while you were in the program that helped offset the cost of tuition? If so, tell us a bit about what you did for these assistantships.
I had an undergraduate research assistantship, which paid a stipend during my last year of my undergraduate degree. I worked alongside other students—learning various lab procedures and training in caring for lab rodents. This also gave me the opportunity to complete my Honors Thesis within Dr. Feresin’s lab. - What has your career looked like since you graduated? Tell us about the jobs you have had or currently have.
Soon after graduating, I began working as a WIC Nutritionist. This allowed me to work with women, infants, and children under 5 years of age. We offer nutrition education as well as breastfeeding support for those who choose to breastfeed their babies. I love working with this population, and it served to bolster my application to the Coordinated Program at GSU. - What other passions do you have? Has studying nutrition helped you realize or grow these passions?
While completing my Honors Thesis, I learned how growing methods of food affects a plant’s chemical compounds, leading to beneficial effects in our bodies. This sparked my interest in growing my own food. Since graduating, I have developed three large garden plots where I grow different vegetables, herbs, and leafy greens. My parents, grandparents, and great grandparents grew their own food, and it has been amazing to have my family help me succeed with this. I get to spend most mornings and evenings outdoors and I feel more connected to nature because of this. - If you could give advice to someone considering studying nutrition, what advice would you give them?
Studying nutrition gives you an opportunity to explore many different fields within one. Students go on to work in food service, agricultural systems, research, education, or counseling. If you have a love for food and how it affects your body, this could be a great outlet for you. If you’re not sure, reach out to the professors, students, or professionals in the field. Most people are happy to help others learn more about the field.