Debi Zvi

Debi Zvi is a Dietetics major in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. This summer, she interned at the National Institutes of Health. Debi was interested in the position at NIH for many reasons. "The volunteer opportunity included patient care. I really wanted to get that kind of experience," she says.

She called different hospitals and health care organizations that were offering summer internship programs and explained that she was interested in getting hands-on nutrition experience, and the coordinator at NIH called her back with an offer.

Debi's favorite part of her internship experience was being able to interact directly with patients. "Basically, we would work through the hospital menu together. I also asked them to give me feedback about the menu. Many patients had a great sense of humor as well as a great deal of useful information for me."

On a daily basis, Debi also completed meal rounds, recorded food temperatures, collected data for food tray timeliness and accuracy, and did research on food safety and menu options.

Aside from the hands-on experience Debi learned from at her internship, she also learned about the importance of networking. "I had no idea how interconnected the dietetic field is. Everyone at NIH told me how important it is to always put your ‘best foot forward' and not be shy."

In addition to interning for NIH, Debi volunteered for "Just Say Yes to Fruits and Vegetables," which is a free program for food stamp recipients in New York. At this program, Debi learned how to speak to large groups about nutrition.

"My favorite part of this experience was that at every nutrition session I learned something from the participants. Whether it was a great recipe or a unique food allergy, I always left with a new fun fact," she says.

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For more information, contact Liz Wright

Last updated: 02/15/2011