By Megan Tomlin

Work Philosophy and Career Goals

When I consider my strengths as I prepare to enter a challenging and fast-paced dietetic internship, I especially appreciate how determined and disciplined I am. Once I have a goal or plan in my head, I will work as hard as possible to see that to fruition. Other strengths I have developed have stemmed from serving as Vice President of our Student Dietetic Association where I have learned how to be an effective leader. My position on the executive board has allowed me to connect with dietitians and internship directors around the country and improve upon my professional public speaking. I would also describe myself as someone who is both flexible and independent. I am confident in my ability to see a project through and be proud of the work I have completed. Obstacles are inevitable, but I know I can adjust to any role. The area I have identified and expect to continue to improve upon during my dietetic internship is my ability to create a work-life balance. Often, I find myself wanting to see every project through to the end or until I am extremely proud and confident of it. This desire to see assignments through can, at times, lead me to take my projects home with me and struggle to surrender a task before I have finished.

During my dietetic internship and the completion of my master's degree, I seek to soak up as much information as possible while having this unique opportunity to experience myriad dietetic specialties. At the beginning of my career, I will aim to expand my network and become an expert in wellness and clinical dietetics. Once I have completed my master’s degree and dietetic internship, my goal is to help foster an environment of wellness-focused healthy habits in my patients. I ultimately plan to become a board-certified specialist in sports dietetics. I am very interested in how athletic individuals, not just professional athletes, can improve their nutrition for better performance. I am most enthusiastic about helping people become the most comfortable and healthy versions of themselves that they deem essential.