Ask the RD student

By Julia Kanoff

What was the hardest part of the program for you?

The most challenging part of my dietetics program was my community course and food service/management course. The broadness of the community side of nutrition was challenging to grasp. We learn to individualize care, but in community nutrition, the care is for the greater good of the group. Food service and management courses were difficult, most likely because they were before my food service internship. Although this is how the program is designed, it was difficult to grasp concepts without seeing the big picture.

Which classes required way more effort than you expected?

Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) is challenging as a course and as a general topic. Science is ever evolving, including the science of dietetics. There are many calculations and diseases to learn. On top of that, patients will not usually present with one condition. Many individuals have multiple comorbidities going on by the time they reach the hospital.

How did you manage time during heavy semesters?

I took advantage of the time between classes, as well as before and after. Nova Southeastern University follows a hybrid style program, meaning we are not on campus very often. I took the time to show up early and stay a bit after to work on coursework. We also have a bit of time between classes, so I would knock out easy assignments during those times.

When are you planning to take the RD exam?

My professors keep telling us that the best scores tend to come 6-8 weeks after graduation, so I am planning to take my exam within 2-3 months of graduation! I know the time range isn’t for everybody, but I’d like to get it done as soon as I can, given that I’m ready!

How are you planning to study?

I have access to many resources, thanks to my university. All Access Dietetics, EatRight Prep, and other various free sample test questions. I plan to use these tools to help me feel confident for my exam.

How are you balancing exam prep with everything else right now?

The best I can! I work at a very flexible job, part-time. They fully support me getting my degree and work with me, so I don’t feel overwhelmed. I try to make one plan per weekend, such as visiting my family. This gives me something to look forward to each week without overloading myself with a busy calendar.

What areas of dietetics are you considering right now?

I am still figuring out where I’d like to end up. I am currently in my clinical rotation and loving it- even more than I thought I would. My interests are clinical, pediatrics, sports, eating disorders, and pregnant women/children.

Did your interests change throughout the program?

I wouldn’t say my interests changed, but they grew. I went into the program wanting to go into sports, but had some interest in the above-listed specialties. I think all I did was add to that list. I was pretty sure I would not like clinical, as it can be more depressing seeing people who are ill or even have terminal illnesses. However, the work is rewarding. You are helping people at their lowest, which makes a big difference.

How are you learning about different career paths?

Our professors and faculty do a great job of having guest speakers from various career paths. This allows us to have perspective from different points of view. Even if your program does not have others come in and speak, lean on your faculty. We are always told, “dietetics is a small world.” Use that to your advantage. Those in the career field will know others who may be hiring or looking for someone just like you!

Are you feeling pressure to have everything figured out?

Not really. There is a demand for dietitians and other roles that dietitians can fill. That being said, I will still look into areas of interest; however, sometimes your next job might just be the one available at the time. We hear countless stories of people saying, “I’m never going to work in food service,” then becoming the food service manager. You really don’t know until you try!

What’s been the most stressful part of this last stretch?

My internship takes up 8-9 hours, 4 days per week. I have a blast there, but I am TIRED when I get home. It feels like a full-time job, plus a lot of extra brain power, because I am still learning. That, combined with the last semester of courses, coursework, and family life, is challenging to balance. It just seems like I have something to do every day and not much time for a break. Nevertheless, I am grateful for this opportunity and happy I was placed in such a welcoming rotation.

What’s been the most rewarding?

Now that I am in my clinical rotation, the most rewarding thing is seeing patients either smile because I visited them and/or they feel better. Even just a patient agreeing to try a nutrition supplement brings me joy. It’s such a small thing, but it’s their commitment and willingness to try to fight for themselves and improve their health. I wanted to be a dietitian to help others, and this allows me to do that.

We love celebrating the next generation of nutrition leaders! Want to learn more about the passionate students shaping the future of our profession? Click here to get to know the 2025-2026 FAND Student Advisory Committee.