Why did you choose graduate school at IU Indianapolis?
I chose to attend IU Indianapolis’ combined Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences and Dietetic Internship program because I was impressed by its strengths and opportunities for growth as a future dietitian. Factors such as highly regarded faculty, wonderful internship rotation opportunities, and strong student recommendations made this program trusted among nutrition professionals and students alike.
Professor-driven research initiatives have propelled development in the field, encouraging students to engage in evidence-based practice and investigation. In academia, experienced Dietitians serve as mentors, providing real world guidance to shape students into competent and compassionate professionals. The variety of internship opportunities, including intensive care units, pediatrics, diabetes management, and women’s care centers, offers specialized experience settings that cultivate expertise in a variety of patient conditions.
Finally, leaders such as Dr. Joanne Whelan exemplify the program’s commitment to student success through their dedication, mentorship, and supportive approach, cultivating a culture of academic excellence and personal growth.
What has been your favorite academic accomplishment since you’ve been here?
In my time here,I received both the Dr. Sheila Ward Fellowship and Arlene Wilson Dietary Fellowship. Both of these awards honor phenomenal female dietitians who devoted their passions towards Indiana University students and philanthropy. Being awarded these fellowships highlighted the great support from IU Indianapolis in my future career, while encouraging me to approach my profession with grit and determination.
What do you enjoy most about life in Indianapolis?
IU Indianapolis is home to some of the best medical facilities in the country. Learning from expert preceptors and witnessing the interaction of a highly skilled interprofessional healthcare team has positively improved my skills in communication, time management, organization, and empathy. Making connections with these professionals in the field has grown my dietetic network while exposing me to a positive clinical environment. Additionally, being a member of various local boards such as CIAND has expanded my nutrition application into numerous real world settings.
Please provide some details about your work/research as a graduate student and/or any activities you are involved in.
This past summer I had the opportunity to serve as a Fellow with the Indiana Science Policy-Educate, Collaborate, and Transform Fellowship. Here, I served the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), Division of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) under Dr. Emily McCallen. During my time, I had the privilege of updating the 2025 State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP) and attending the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) to expand my knowledge on the intersection of public policy and science, while carrying out the mission of IDNR. The INSPECT fellowship program provided me with an opportunity to refine my skills in education dissemination by writing and having meaningful conversations with science representatives within the state. Through my work, I learned how scientific research may be leveraged to promote state and local policy decisions to benefit the health of Indiana.