How to Get Experience as a Dietitian

Dietitians develop nutritional meal plans for their patients or clients.

Dietitians recommend meal plans for patients and aid with resolving illnesses by managing the nutritional needs of patients. They may specialize in clinical, management or community dietetics, which each require a special set of skills. Dietitians are required to possess a bachelor's degree in food and nutrition, dietetics or a related field. There are several methods available to gain experience as a dietitian depending on the area you would like to specialize.

Instructions

1. Go to area hospitals to inquire about volunteer opportunities. Many hospitals employ dietitians who work with patients and doctors to develop wellness meal plans. Furthermore, some dietitians specialize in specific illnesses, such as diabetes and work in clinics or doctor's offices. Contact clinics and doctor's offices to volunteer your services.

2. Locate and contact dietitians in your area who work as consultants. Contact the American Dietetic Association (see Resource) to locate registered dietitians in your area and express your interest in interning or volunteering to gain experience.

3. Call the Commission on Dietetic Registration of the American Dietetic Association (see Resource). The association offers a Registered Dietitian credential that requires the completion of an internship. If you live in a state that requires certification, you are required to complete a supervised internship, depending on state regulation.

4. Contact a camp that works with people who have health issues that impact their diets. For example, the American Diabetes Association (see Resources) sponsors diabetes camps for children during the summer months.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Dietitians and Nutritionists
• University of Maryland: Becoming a Registered Dietitian
• Community Health: Volunteer Opportunities for Registered Dietitian
• University of Illinois: Building Dietetic Experiences Early
• University of Massachusetts: Volunteer and Field Experience
• Mount Sinai Hospital: Becoming a Registered Dietitian

Resources

• American Dietetic Association: Home Page
• Commission on Dietetic Registration: Home Page
• American Diabetes Association: Work at Camp