EKU’s general dietetics program has achieved a 100% internship placement rate, significantly above the national average, for its spring 2020 graduates. This marks the second consecutive year that the program has recorded a 100% rate.
“Admission to dietetic internships is highly competitive, and our students’ success reflects the hard work and commitment of our students and faculty, as well as the support of the Department of Applied Human Sciences, the College of Health Sciences, and EKU,” said program director Dr. Mary Wilson. “I am proud of these seniors, and I look forward to seeing the many ways they will work to improve the health of individuals, families, and communities in Kentucky and across the country.”
Accredited internships are a vital step for program graduates— they must complete one in order to sit for the national registration exam. Passing the exam then grants them the credential of Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). The national match rate for dietetics internships for the past three years averaged 60%.
Upcoming graduates have landed internships in settings such as University of Kentucky Hospital; City University of New York (CUNY); Veteran’s Administration Health in Memphis, Tennessee; Florida State University; Marshall University and Aramark. One student, Hailey Lacy, was thrilled to match with Florida State University, where she is also pursuing a master’s degree in sports nutrition.
“Applying for a dietetic internship is a very stressful process,” she said. “Getting matched to my first internship choice meant that all my experience and coursework is finally paying off and setting me up for my dream job.”
For more information on the dietetics program, visit ahs.eku.edu/general-dietetics-bs