All dietitians are scientists!
That’s right, even if your degree isn’t in “nutritional sciences” specifically you still must take a ton of science classes before you can become an RD. This includes chem, bio and the dreaded ORGO. If you have ever found yourself slogging through your seventh orgo lab writeup wondering when you are ever going to use that information, I have bad news for you- you probably won’t. BUT it will give you valuable scientific writing experience and help you understand the basics of running an experiment to test a hypothesis (AKA the scientific method).
Why should you care about the scientific method? Because all of the recommendations you will make as a dietician are based on tested hypotheses. To get an even better understanding of the scientific method, I would suggest getting involved in the research that your department is doing. I think research experience is valuable to all dietetics students no matter what area you want to work in. Victoria and I both participated in research while at school are now both getting paid to work in research!
To get involved in a research project you should first look at your department website and see what your professors are working on. If you find a topic you really like, contact the professor and ask them if they are in need of a research volunteer. If there is a particular professor you really like, ask them if they have spots for a volunteer even if you are not thrilled about their research. The professor is the captain of their research and can usually stir up some sort of interest for a topic. Passion is contagious! Also, if you already get along with the professor it will be easier to ask them questions and you may be given more responsibility over the years. You might even be able to work on a project of your own if you prove yourself early on. If you work with a difficult professor whose topic interests you, you may have your first research experience ruined and never want to try again.
Once you land a position in a lab you now want to make the most out of the experience. But first, don’t take on too many hours and neglect your school work! If you are feeling overextended at any point, work less and talk to your research advisor. They should understand. Research can enhance your applications but your GPA and clinical experience are still king on DI applications. As a research volunteer, you may be exposed to data collection methods and entry, grant writing, and poster making for conferences. Learn all you can and ask questions.
At this point you may be wondering how any of this will help you as an RD. Besides putting research on your DI application, you will find many of your research skill applicable to work as an RD. Learning how to read and UNDERSTAND a research article is one of the most important skills you can have as an RD. Nutrition is an ever changing field and new information is being discovered all the time. It is essential that you keep up with the literature so that you are providing evidence based information to your clients at all times. Other skills that are developed from research experience are organization, working as a team, goal setting, and time management.
I hope I have convinced you to begin looking for research opportunities at your school. It is never too early to start!
If you are already involved in research, tell us your experience below!
By Katelyn
Defining Fit and Healthy 