Liz Drain - Region 4

​I began my internship this past September and what an interesting couple of weeks it has been! My first rotation was Patient Service Management, and I am currently working on my Food Service Management rotation. It has been an exciting and, at times, nerve-wracking journey—but I’m eager to see what the rest of the year has in store.
 
I joined my hospital at a very busy time of year. During my first week, the hospital hosted their annual employee appreciation barbeque. Walking into my first day, I had no idea that this event was happening, however I quickly realized its importance and the integral role that the foodservice workers of my hospital played in this event. To be completely honest, I was feeling incredibly overwhelmed. I was not confident in my ability to learn the ins and outs of the hospital while also trying to be useful for the barbeque. My preceptor was great during my first week and was sure that I was getting a good overview of the department, the hospital, and the roles that RDs play, while simultaneously helping set up the event. 
 
Despite the initial sense of feeling overwhelmed, I was really grateful for the way that my first week went. I learned a lot and was able to get to know a good majority of the foodservice staff during the barbeque. Reflecting on the first week, I am so grateful for it going the way it did because not only did I get to go through all the patient service objectives, I was able to build connections which allowed me to feel more confident and comfortable in the hospital setting.  
 
While my internship may still be in the early stages, I have learned so much and am so grateful. These past few weeks have sparked a new sense of excitement for the rest of the year and all that has yet to come!

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