Selina LaVista Preyer-Blakney, RDN

“Completing the Dietetic Internship with Russell Sage College prepared me for entry-level dietetic practice. The DI at Sage is communications-focused, which really taught me to write, speak and convey nutrition information in an ethical, evidence-based, and population-specific way. The five-rotation format of the Sage DI is an invaluable experience; exposure to various areas of practice really helped me to understand what I enjoyed about each rotation and where I would like to work. Additionally, the classes and practicum assignments strengthen the educational experience, are applicable to real-world practice, and prepare you for the registered dietitian (RD) exam. I think for me though, the support, guidance and care from Professors Morgan and Longton truly made the experience feel individualized and helped me to be a successful RD.

Each rotation provided a valuable set of skills and preparation for the exam, but the in-class and field trip days were highlights for me. Hearing from RDs who currently work in the field, visiting farms and lobbying for licensure aided in my understanding of the field of dietetics and where I belong within it.

My community rotation, at the Sylvia Center, introduced me to the world of community nutrition and was incredibly enjoyable. I was treated as a member of the team, participating in teaching cooking and nutrition to youth both on the homestead farm location and in the schools and community. I currently work for the organization as the Program Development and Evaluations Coordinator and am grateful to Sage for making this connection for me.”