Why did you apply to be the new BDA rep?
I was interested in the role because I’m passionate about representing my peers and ensuring student voices are heard within the wider profession. I am already a course rep at my own university, and I really enjoy supporting other students, so stepping into the BDA student rep role felt like a natural next step to help build stronger connections between students and the profession and learn more about what the BDA has to offer dietitians and students.
What would you like to achieve during your time in the role?
I hope to increase engagement with the BDA, strengthen the flow of communication between students and the board, as well as advocate for inclusivity and support during both academic and placement experiences. I think I will really enjoy being able to support other student’ journeys at a national level and contribute to the BDA’s mission, as I believe progress begins when students are given a seat at the table and a chance to lead and change.
What made you choose dietetics as a career?
Ever since I was a child I’ve always been obsessed with what people eat, if its different from what I eat and how and why. Id always be the friend at the lunch table that would ask what everyone is having and what they’re going to eat for dinner later, I mean obsessed! So naturally enough choosing dietetics made sense because it combines three things I’m passionate about: food, science and helping people. Nutrition has such a powerful role in health and wellbeing, and I wanted a career where I could make a real difference to people’s lives by using evidence-based knowledge to support them in reaching their goals and managing their health and health conditions.
What route would you like to pursue in your career?
I’m keeping an open mind, but I’m particularly interested in clinical dietetics, especially areas like gastroenterology or paediatrics. I’d also love to continue some work in community health, as I’ve seen first-hand the impact of prevention and early intervention. I recently had my first ever placement experience, although it was only for a day, I really enjoyed it. It was on a paediatric ward and I got to experience clinics as well as the wards and the day to day tasks NHS dietetics it was so interesting.
What’s the best advice you’ve been given?
“The time will pass anyway”, this phrase means a lot to me because I had a different unconventional route to university and when I was applying to courses all I could think about was what age I was going to be by the end of it all and one of my friends just turned to me and said this phrase, the time will pass anyway you may as well be a dietitian by the end of it
How did you arrange your placements?
So at ulster we have 1 placement day in second year, mine was in April passed, in third year I think we have 2 placement days once each term and then my 4th year of university is all placements. Two 14-week blocks. These are all organised by our placement officer/ coordinator which we are very lucky to have.
Why is it important that students become BDA members?
Being a BDA member as a student is so valuable. It gives you access to the latest evidence and resources, helps you feel part of a professional community from day one, and offers support, networking and learning opportunities. It’s also a great way to start shaping your professional identity, networking with peers and understanding the role of the dietitian beyond university.
