Kaitlin Goodman
Kaitlin Goodman earned a bachelor’s degree in Nutritional Sciences at Penn State in 2022 before obtaining a Master of Public Health degree with a concentration in nutrition and dietetics at UNC-Chapel Hill in 2024. She is currently living between Bethesda, Maryland and Chapel Hill, North Carolina as she prepares for the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam. She also recently completed her final dietetic internship at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C. as part of UNC’s Future Education Model program.
Why did you pursue a degree from Penn State Nutritional Sciences?
I pursued a degree in Nutritional Sciences at Penn State because my passion for nutrition led me to seek a program that combined in-depth knowledge with practical experience. While my initial interest in healthcare was through psychology, I discovered a deeper connection with nutrition.
Penn State’s program stood out for its blend of rigorous coursework and hands-on learning. Courses like NUTR 251 and NUTR 170 opened my eyes to the many career paths within nutrition and confirmed my decision to specialize in this field. The program’s comprehensive curriculum and the faculty’s dedication to student success were crucial in shaping my academic and career goals. This perfect mix of academic rigor and practical application made Penn State the ideal choice for pursuing my passion in nutrition and dietetics.
How would you describe your current position and what impact(s) are you seeking to make?
I am currently preparing to sit for the RDN exam, marking an exciting step in my career. As a person of color, I am motivated to make a significant impact in the field of pediatric nutrition, with a focus on oncology or neonatal intensive care. My goal is to serve as a role model and advocate for diversity within the field, demonstrating that diverse perspectives are essential in delivering effective and empathetic care. By contributing to these specialized areas, I aim to enhance care for children and inspire others to pursue careers in nutrition, ultimately fostering greater representation and inclusivity in the profession.
How did your degree from Penn State help you to get to your current position?
The knowledge and skills I gained through Penn State’s Nutritional Sciences program have been instrumental in both my academic and career journey. A significant factor in the program’s success is its exceptional staff. Their unwavering dedication to students and commitment to continuously improving the program's quality profoundly impacted my experience. Their support and expertise not only enriched my education, but also left a lasting impression on my professional aspirations.
What would you describe as the biggest opportunity and the biggest challenge in the field?
The biggest opportunity in the field of nutrition is the high demand for dietitians, which reflects a growing recognition of their crucial role in health and wellness. This demand opens doors for diverse career paths and increased influence in shaping the field and future related policies.
However, a significant challenge is tackling health disparities and ensuring that nutrition services are accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status. Addressing these barriers is essential to maximizing the impact of dietitians and promoting equitable health outcomes.
What advice do you have for other graduates just starting out?
For graduates just starting out, my advice is to actively seek practical experience to identify what you enjoy and what you don’t within the field. Networking is also crucial; connecting with professionals can open doors and provide valuable insights that might come in handy later. Thoroughly research different dietetic programs to find ones that match your interests and uncover opportunities you may not have known existed.
Additionally, don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone and embrace new experiences. You might discover new aspects of yourself or stumble upon opportunities that could shape your career in unexpected ways.