Zoe Hylands talks to us about her time spent volunteering for the BDA Northern Ireland Board as a student member.
When I joined the BDA Northern Ireland Board as a student member, I thought my role would be to listen. I quickly realised it was to contribute.
Like many students, I imagined attending the occasional board meeting, listening quietly from the sidelines and trying not to get in the way of the experienced professionals around the table. The reality couldn't have been more different.
I first became involved with the BDA during university because I wanted to engage more with the profession beyond lectures and placements. I hoped to build my professional network, gain a better understanding of dietetics and contribute in a meaningful way. Three years later, I'm still involved, now as a newly qualified dietitian and I've realised just how valuable a student voice can be.
One of my biggest surprises was realising just how much influence the Board has. Before joining, I hadn't appreciated the work that happens behind the scenes to shape our profession. Board meetings aren't simply updates, they are discussions that influence workforce planning, education, public health priorities, member engagement and the future direction of dietetics across Northern Ireland. As a student, I never expected to contribute to conversations around professional guidance, policy and workforce planning, but having the opportunity to do so has been incredibly rewarding. Working with fellow Board members on professional campaigns and student events showed me how ideas discussed around the Board table become real projects that support members and strengthen the profession.
Perhaps the most rewarding aspect has been representing students. We experience today's dietetic education first-hand and understand the opportunities and challenges that come with it. Bringing those experiences into Board discussions helps ensure that student perspectives are considered when decisions are made. After all, today's students are tomorrow's workforce, and giving students a seat at the table helps shape a profession that better supports those who will soon be joining it.
Beyond Board meetings, volunteering has opened doors I never expected. It has given me opportunities to collaborate with experienced colleagues, contribute to professional initiatives and support the development of guidance and policy. More importantly, it has given me the confidence to speak up, lead student projects and realise that meaningful leadership doesn't begin after graduation. These experiences have shaped not only my understanding of the profession but also the dietitian I hope to become.
Looking back, I joined the Board expecting to listen from the sidelines. Instead, I found a place where my ideas, experiences and perspective genuinely mattered. It has shown me that students can make meaningful contributions long before graduation and that our voices can help shape the future of dietetics.
If you're considering getting involved with the BDA, I'd encourage you to take that first step. You don't need years of experience to make a meaningful contribution. Sometimes all it takes is being willing to bring your voice to the table.
