A big congratulations to Ogo-Jesu, who has been elected as the BDA Student Rep 2026/27.
We asked Ogo-Jesu why she applied for the role and how she hopes to champion the voice of dietetic students over the next year.
Why did you apply to be the new BDA rep?
I was interested in the role because I am enthusiastic about improving the connection between students and the BDA, while promoting a culture of inclusivity. I would like every student, including international students, to feel that they truly belong within the profession.
Ultimately, I would love every dietetic student to feel like an insider: valued, connected and an active part of the BDA community from the very beginning of their career.
What would you like to achieve during your time in the role?
I would love to help more students discover the value and opportunities the BDA has to offer and encourage them to make the most of its resources and activities. More importantly, I hope to improve the relationship between students and the BDA so that students feel like valued members of the profession, rather than outsiders looking in.
What made you choose dietetics as a career?
My interest in nutrition started at a young age. My mum used to joke that I was always reading my Home Economics textbook because it was constantly in my hands. I believe that curiosity I had grew into a genuine passion when I later studied Food and Nutrition in secondary school. I loved the subject so much that I was the only student in my school to take it for my final examinations.
I am continually inspired by the incredible impact nutrition can have on people's lives through the use of food to prevent disease, support recovery and improve overall health. Through my studies, internships, research and community work, I have seen firsthand how dietetics combines science with compassion to make a real difference, and that is what continues to motivate me.
What route would you like to pursue in your career?
I am keeping an open mind because there are so many areas of dietetics that genuinely interest me!
At the moment, I am particularly drawn to public health nutrition, food systems and clinical dietetics. I am also looking forward to my placements helping me explore these areas further before deciding where I would like to specialise.
What’s the best advice you’ve been given?
"Whatever is worth doing is worth doing well." It is a simple piece of advice, but it is something I remind myself of often, and it has influenced how I approach both my studies and everything else I commit to.
How did you arrange your placements?
I am fortunate that my placements are arranged by the university in collaboration with placement providers. We have three placements in total: Placement A lasts three weeks, while Placements B and C are each twelve weeks long and take place throughout most of our second year.
Why is it important that students become BDA members?
The BDA offers a wealth of resources and opportunities that support students throughout their professional journey. There’s a lot to gain from membership such as access to learning resources, CPD opportunities, networking, career guidance and discovering different career parts within dietetics. Just as importantly, becoming a member helps you feel part of the professional community from the beginning of your career, and this sense of belonging can make a real difference.
