Celine Dukes

Celine Dukes

Celine Dukes

Nutrition - Professional dietetics, MS

Dietetic internship rotation

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

My passion for nutrition and dietetics was ignited by a personal experience with food-related health issues, where I realized the profound impact diet can have on our overall well-being.

I wanted to learn more about the science behind nutrition and how to help others make informed choices about their food. The opportunity to combine my love of food with my interest in health and wellness made pursuing a degree in nutrition and dietetics at OSU the perfect fit.

What are you doing during your dietetic internship rotation?

My internship is giving me valuable experience in various nutrition settings, including clinical nutrition, community nutrition and foodservice nutrition, with a primary focus on clinical nutrition.

I've had the opportunity to work with OSU Extension Services, Salem Hospital, Providence Benedictine Nursing Center, Fresenius Dialysis Center and the Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic.

What do you see as the greatest value of your internship, or what have you learned the most in your dietetic internship?

The greatest value of my internship has been the opportunity to gain practical experience in the field of nutrition. I have been able to apply the theoretical knowledge I learned in my coursework to real-world situations and develop new skills.

Additionally, I’ve had the chance to work with experienced professionals and learn from their expertise, which has been invaluable in helping me clarify my career goals and prepare for my future.

What do you think of your experience at OSU/in the college so far? Any stand-out experiences?

I've been fortunate to complete both my Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in nutrition at Oregon State.  

Some of my favorite aspects of attending OSU include the welcoming environment fostered by faculty and students, the rigorous coursework, the beautiful campus and proximity to my family and friends.  

For prospective students considering degree options in fields such as nutrition, exercise science, public health and related areas, I highly recommend exploring the programs offered by OSU's College of Health.  

Have you received a scholarship? If so, how has it affected your life and studies?

I have the honor of being a recipient of the Academy of Dietetics and Nutrition Foundation’s 2024 Frances E. Fischer Memorial Scholarship, and the John W. & E. Roxie Howlett Education Fund from Oregon State University. These awards have helped alleviate financial stress, allowing me to focus on gaining valuable knowledge and experience in my dietetic internship and ultimately achieve my academic goals.

What are your post-college dreams or plans?

As a dietetic intern, I have yet to decide what direction I want my career in nutrition to go. I am looking forward to the myriad opportunities available to nutrition professionals, along with the personal fulfillment that comes from helping others improve their health and well-being.

Whether I choose to work in a clinical, community or foodservice setting, I am excited about the potential to make a positive impact on people's lives through nutrition.

Ultimately, I hope to find a career path that allows me to make a meaningful difference in people's lives and contribute to a healthier society.

More internship spotlights

  • MS nutrition student Celine Dukes builds diverse dietetics experience through rotations at hospitals, clinics and OSU Extension Service while pursuing her RD career goals.

  • Rachel Harmon combines clinical nutrition at Samaritan Health with community outreach at YVFWC, while researching food security through OSU's MS in Professional Dietetics program.

  • From cafe operations to local business laws, discover how Sam Wade combines OSU's nutrition in foodservice program with hands-on experience at Naked Crepe Cafe, building towards their dream of opening a Corvallis food business.