Hello! My name is Aliya! I am region 4 PA/NJ dietetic intern. I am 6 months into the internship journey! I began my clinical rotations with patient services. Although it was a short rotation, I had an amazing experience due to the friendly kitchen staff. One of the many highlights of the rotation was taking meal orders and conducting meal rounds. My experiences of working in a kitchen at a nursing home/hospital allowed me to quickly adapt to the nature of foodservice and ensure patient satisfaction.
From there, I went on to complete my basic, intermediate, and advanced clinicals! In the beginning, I was nervous to interview my patients. To gain more confidence to complete nutrition assessments, my preceptors were supportive and visited patients with me until I was comfortable to be on my own. They also reviewed my notes while providing constructive comments and positive affirmations. By the end of staff relief, I was seeing close to 11 patients with complex diseases, many of which required enteral/parenteral nutrition, with complete trust in myself. I also spent time in the outpatient cancer and weight loss center which were unique and exciting! I got to learn the role of an RDN in an outpatient and inpatient setting, as well the challenges and opportunities that come with it.
From there, I went on to complete my basic, intermediate, and advanced clinicals! In the beginning, I was nervous to interview my patients. To gain more confidence to complete nutrition assessments, my preceptors were supportive and visited patients with me until I was comfortable to be on my own. They also reviewed my notes while providing constructive comments and positive affirmations. By the end of staff relief, I was seeing close to 11 patients with complex diseases, many of which required enteral/parenteral nutrition, with complete trust in myself. I also spent time in the outpatient cancer and weight loss center which were unique and exciting! I got to learn the role of an RDN in an outpatient and inpatient setting, as well the challenges and opportunities that come with it.
My clinical experience pushed me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to foster skills such as flexibility, time-management, leadership, and communication. It has taught me that it is important to voice when you need help, ask questions, and to make mistakes. In doing so, I grew as an individual and my experience was gratifying. After all, we are interns, and this is the time to fall and get back on our feet!
I am currently in my third week of my foodservice rotation. It has been an enjoyable experience to learn the style of foodservice in a corporate setting! At first, I was anxious to transition into a new rotation, but I am continuing to build a positive rapport with staff. So far, I had the chance to participate in National Nutrition Month with the RDN by organizing a tabling event to provide samples of a Mediterranean dish and delivering nutrition education. I also took part in organizing an event for St. Patrick’s Day with the catering staff and being part of production to offer delicious and nutritious meals to the employees. I am excited to continue my rotations and see what lies ahead!
I am currently in my third week of my foodservice rotation. It has been an enjoyable experience to learn the style of foodservice in a corporate setting! At first, I was anxious to transition into a new rotation, but I am continuing to build a positive rapport with staff. So far, I had the chance to participate in National Nutrition Month with the RDN by organizing a tabling event to provide samples of a Mediterranean dish and delivering nutrition education. I also took part in organizing an event for St. Patrick’s Day with the catering staff and being part of production to offer delicious and nutritious meals to the employees. I am excited to continue my rotations and see what lies ahead!
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My advice to the new interns would be to not be too hard on yourself. Give yourself time and space if you feel overwhelmed because it can be challenging with all the assignments and hours you are required to complete. To help make it easier, I advise staying organized in a way which works for you. Ask as many questions as you can, and have snacks to energize you on the go! This internship is to help you find your path and to grow your potential!
