I really enjoy the patient education and interaction at Mayo. It is nice to see people who are interested in their own health and nutrition. Taking that initiative, they better themselves through nutrition.

My job requires a lot of computer work, reviewing medical records, reviewing diets and checking e-mail and other patient information. I also review lab work that might have been drawn on the patient, checking for any changes. I can make recommendations on a diet adjustment based on available information. I then gather education materials that patients might need regarding their diets, visit with them to see how they are tolerating their diets and check to see if they need anything. My occupation involves interaction with patients, nutrition assistants, diet technicians, nursing staff and residents.

There are two different ways to become a registered dietitian. I chose the traditional path. I got my undergraduate degree and then went on to an internship, which is typically an additional year. Internships are difficult to get because of their scarcity. They are very competitive. Also, it is about a year without pay. The other path a person can take is called a coordinated undergraduate program. It is similar to a nursing degree where you get your four-year degree and clinical work at the same time. The program takes four years if one is ambitious, but it usually takes five. After you graduate, you are ready for an entry-level dietitian position. To be a dietitian, you need strong people skills for patient and family interaction. You have to be able to listen to people and respond appropriately.

I would say the one thing that brought me here was the tuition reimbursement. I was totally blown away by Mayo's focus on advancing their employees through education.