Getting Ready for Spring Summit as a Student

Downing Dietetic Intern

During my undergrad, I always heard how important networking was, but I hadn’t really seen its potential until recently. As a distance, dietetic intern, I knew I’d have the freedom to hand-pick my own rotation sites, interview preceptors, and relocate to a city I’d always dreamed of living in. Let me tell you though, approaching potential preceptors and convincing them to take you on is no easy task. I’m constantly having to sell myself and advocate for my own abilities, and now I understand just how essential networking opportunities can be early in your career. Happily, many RDs offered me their support, some wisdom, and much-needed encouragement for the many challenges that accompany being young in this profession.

Now that all my sites have been secured, I’m in a wonderful position to showcase my expertise. I work daily to build opportunities for myself that might not have otherwise existed. Who knows? That next opportunity may very well be at Spring Summit.

To really get the most out of this event, I know the importance of having my “elevator pitch” ready. Not that there will be any pressure to perform, but being able to tell someone new about yourself in an articulate, concise manner is a great way to kick off introductions (and make an impression!). I’m also planning on taking down lots of notes and asking lots of questions via chat during presentations. After all, I’m attending to learn!

Lasty, I plan to use my position as a dietetic intern to expand my knowledge. I may ask to shadow established dietitians, or even set up a call to learn more about their story or business. These are great ways to build connections and explore the many opportunities within our profession.

In short, here are four big ways to get ready for the Spring Summit as a student:

1 Have a couple of questions locked and loaded to learn more about how an entrepreneur got to where they are or what they plan to do to reach their goals.

Networking Event Questions

Unsure what to ask fellow attendees? We’ve got you covered. To further kick-off the conversation with other attendees, we have curated a collection of prompts to get you talking. Below is the list of questions we will use in our breakout rooms during the networking event on Thursday, March 9th at 5:00 pm EST. Mark your calendar to attend, then keep these questions handy to get the conversation flowing!

2 How do you get inspired when a lack of motivation sets in?

3 What’s one of your favorite entrepreneurial resources? Alternatively, what type of resources are you seeking?

2 Be an active listener. Keep distractions away, turn on your camera, take notes, and ask ALL the questions!

3 Prepare to tell others about yourself and relax – everyone in attendance is excited to meet new dietitians and entrepreneurs. (Even RDNs-to-be!)

4 Don’t be afraid to ask for some contact information and set up a time to chat if you make a connection. Most RDNs are willing to give back and help students find their way.

I look forward to meeting everyone!

Hannah Downing graduated Summa Cum Laude from Oregon State University with minors in Spanish, Chemistry,and Business.When she’s not studying forthe RD exam,Hannah enjoys baking something sweet,blowing off steam at CrossFit,orsampling a pint from one of the many microbreweries in Bend,OR.

1 What is one of your biggest wins as a nutrition entrepreneur? If you are just getting started, what is the biggest goal you’d like to accomplish?

4 Is there anything holding you back from starting your business?

5 As you look to the future of your business or set out on your entrepreneurial journey, what is an area you are most worried about?

6 What’s one of your favorite things about the NE DPG?

7 What’s one piece of advice you would share with a fellow attendee regarding the entrepreneur path?

9 Name one person who has played a vital role in getting you where you are and why?

8 What’s one BIG business goal you have for yourself in the next 1-3 years?

What is your favorite piece of advice, information, or new connections you gained from attending this year’s Spring Summit?