Top Tips When Applying for a Dietetic Internship
Written by Rose Lipner, Nutrition Intern
If you’re reading this post you’re probably freaking out about dietetic internships. I get it, it’s scary AF. But I’m here to tell you it’s DOABLE. The power lies within you to achieve your goals and become the RD you worked so hard to be! Here are the top tips I found most helpful when applying for dietetic internships.
1. Research programs early
Ideally, starting in your junior year—or a year before you graduate—start looking at dietetic internships. Keep a running list of all the programs you’re interested in and weed them out as you learn more about them.
Find out when the programs on your list are having open houses and attend them! If you’re comfortable, ask questions during the open house to show you’re interested (note: these should not be questions that you can find on their website).
Here’s a list of questions to ask yourself when deciding which internship is right for you:
Where do I want to live? (Los Angeles, NY, Texas, Hawaii?!)
Is there something specific I’m interested in? (pediatrics, oncology, sports, etc.) Find a program where your passions lie.
Note: If you don’t know the answer to this question: it’s OK! Your dietetic internship will provide you with a chance to gain exposure in different fields.
What are the programs requirements, and do I meet those requirements?
Every program will have a list of requirements. Make sure to read them carefully to see if you meet the requirements.
2. Start the applications early
As daunting as it is… you’ve got to start sometime! Here’s an example of a timeline (for a spring match) that might help you get organized. Adjust it if you’re applying for the fall match. Make it work for you!
A Year Before
Research programs (see tip #1)
September – November:
Ask for letters of recommendation
Polish your resume
Brainstorm your personal statement
Create an outline
Understand what programs are asking for
Do 70% of the DICAS application
This part is a little tedious, but still important!
December – January
Write and edit your personal statement
Finish up the DICAS application
Attend any open houses and continue expressing interest
Make sure your letters of recommendation are in check—check in with professors/bosses to remind them about your letter of recommendation (and don’t forget to thank them again!)
Sign up for D&D Digital
Start ranking your programs!
February
Edit, edit, edit
Print out your DICAS application and check for any spelling or grammar mistakes
Triple check that you have all the supplemental material required for each program
Not every program has the same requirements. It’s good to keep a list for each program of the things you’ll need. For example, some places require 2 letters of rec, others require 3. Do your research!
February 15th: Applications Due
You made it. Sit back and relax!
March: Interviews
Some programs will have interviews, others won’t. Know whether you should be expecting an email or call.
If a place you applied to usually interviews their top-ranking applicants but doesn’t ask you for an interview, consider re-ranking your choices.
April 5th: Match Day
Hopefully you get matched. If you don’t, that’s not a reflection of you! There are so many things that go into the process—how you ranked the program, how many people applied that year, etc. Don’t let it get you down. Reach out to professors and mentors to see how you can increase your chances for the next round.
Note: there is a second round of matching for the applicants who don’t get matched the first time around! If you see any programs that have openings, make your move!
3. Use the resources you have
Reach out to friends, professors, or bosses who have gone through the same process to become an RD! Everyone understands how stressful it is and people are usually happy to help if you have questions. One of my favorite resources to use was (and still is!) All Access Dietetics https://allaccessinternships.teachable.com/ . They break down the application process for you and provide you with tips for each part of DICAS—including the personal statement and interview prep. They have a ton of free resources and free webinars that you can take advantage of. Check out their website and follow them on Instagram.
4. Have Two Editors
Your mom, grandpa, neighbor, teacher, and an aunt’s friend (yes, the list goes on) may all want to help you with your personal statement. This can get overwhelming because everyone has different opinions on what sounds best and what you should include.
I recommend having two editors: one to look at the nutrition content and one to check for grammar, spelling, and word flow. The editor for the nutrition content should come from someone you trust who has gone through the DI process, is an RD, and understands what schools are looking for. The grammar editor should be someone proficient in English and who can help make your personal statement really flow.
Final Thoughts
As daunting as the task of applying for dietetic internships is, the reward is everything you’ve worked so hard for! Becoming a dietitian takes perseverance, dedication, and, of course, lots of snacks. You’ve got this!