Rosmi Arancherry - Region 5

Hello, everyone, my name is Rosmi, and I'm a Region 5 dietetic intern in North Carolina. I have completed all my rotations, and as I reflect on my journey, I'm grateful for the invaluable experiences I gained through the Sodexo Dietetic Internship. This program provided me with an excellent opportunity to explore diverse nutrition settings.

My first rotation was in foodservice, followed by a clinical rotation at the same hospital. This sequence allowed me to familiarize myself with the site, its employees, and how foodservice and dietitians are interconnected. When I began my clinical rotation, I felt nervous and anxious. While there were challenging moments during the rotations, the knowledge and growth I gained made it all worthwhile. Looking back on how I started and how much I've learned by the end of each rotation is truly rewarding. To manage stress during clinical rotations, try to complete clinical assignments simultaneously, as otherwise, they tend to accumulate quickly. These assignments prepare us for subsequent rotations.

During my clinical rotation, I had the privilege of visiting a middle school to educate kids about the role of dietitians and how to become one. The session was interactive, and the children thoroughly enjoyed it. I also had the opportunity to interact with Marines at Camp Lejeune, discussing healthy eating habits, choosing the right supplements, and the importance of hydration. The session was held in the mess hall, where Marines who answered lunch quiz questions correctly received small gifts. Volunteering in such activities is highly recommended as it provides a chance to develop skills and gain valuable experiences.

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​Sodexo's internship program allows participants to choose their specialty, and for this rotation, I opted for the wellness specialty. This choice enabled me to work with different dietitians specializing in various areas, including eating disorders, weight management, bariatrics, diabetes, and pediatrics. Collaborating with them exposed me to diverse skills and approaches that I can incorporate into my own practice.
 
Overall, this program not only provided me with valuable experience but also pushed me out of my comfort zone, helping me recognize my strengths and weaknesses. If you ever find yourself stuck, don't hesitate to seek help, as your director is always there to support you. Remember to take a deep breath and keep moving forward; you've got this!