What inspired or interested you about your field of study? And why did you choose OSU/the college?

Going into college, I wanted to do something in a field where I would be able to have a positive impact on individuals' everyday lives. I wanted to be able to have one-on-one connections with my patients and truly get to know them.

A health care career was the direction I was going; however, beyond that I had no idea what area of health care I wanted.

I have grown up as an athlete my whole life. In addition, I have always loved food and cooking.

With the combination of sports and my interest in cooking, I was made aware of how little knowledge people had about nutrition.

After a lot of research, I came across nutrition and dietetics and fell in love with the idea of becoming a dietitian.

I was excited about this career path where I will be able to connect with people every day through food.

Everyone eats, and there are so many ways I can help heal people through food.

Tell us about your time at Oregon State and in the college. Is there someone or something who/that helped you be successful?

Being part of the nutrition cohort is what made my time at Oregon State University so enjoyable. We became a little, big family. Having almost all classes with the same people made learning so much more fun.

We quickly became comfortable with one another, which really helped take the pressure away from presentations, as well as asking questions.

As a cohort, we were able to lean on each other as study partners for assignments and exams.

What are your post-college dreams/plans?

I will be attending Idaho State University’s nutrition masters and dietetic internship program beginning this fall.

After completing my master’s degree and becoming a registered dietitian, I hope to work in a pediatric hospital and eventually begin work as an eating disorder dietitian.

Anything else you'd like to add?

Future students - time management is key!