This year the Idaho Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is celebrating 70 years of our Idaho affiliate! As part of our celebration, we would like to recognize what Idaho Dietetic Interns and Students are doing and where they would like to go after the completion of their dietetic program.

Today, we are recognizing:

Renee Jenkins

Junior Student in the Coordinated Program in Dietetics at the University of Idaho

How did you become interested in nutrition?

I was having health problems of my own, and I wanted to figure out why.  I started taking health classes to find the answers.  I enjoyed learning about how the body functions, but knew that I didn’t want to become a nurse or a doctor.  Then I discovered the field of dietetics. 

What has been your favorite experience from your dietetic program and/or internship so far?

My favorite experience so far in the dietetics program has been the hands-on learning. They have a small kitchen on campus and you can use the equipment to get familiar with them and practice your own cooking skills.

Once you become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, what kind of work would you like to do?

Once I become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, I might enjoy working for a school district.   I am also interested in clinical dietetics and can see myself working in a hospital clinic.  Regardless of the location, I can definitely see myself teaching nutrition and health classes as part of my job. 

What words of wisdom would you share with students who are interested in pursuing Dietetics?

Be prepared to do a lot of menu writing!  You will also create many recipes.  In the process of learning about nutrition and dietetics, you will learn a lot of science! 

What is your LinkedIn profile URL?

www.linkedin.com/in/ranee-jenkins-15163967

Thank you Renee and see you at the Idaho Annual Meeting April 19th – 20th in Sun Valley!