Work title: Business Systems Manager
What is your current role, and what area of nutrition or dietetics do you work in?
In short, I primarily work in the food service industry for a group purchasing organization (GPO) called CSM Cost Solutions. In my current role as Business Systems Manager, I oversee market basket and product analysis, business reviews for customers, and healthcare-related initiatives. This includes anything from pre-analysis work, RFPs, our quarterly Health and Wellness newsletter, and our annual CEU partnership webinars with the University of Iowa Master of Clinical Nutrition program.
What drew you to this area of practice?
What I love about this field and what I currently do is that no two days are the same. I’ve always had an interest in food and nutrition, and I’ve worked in restaurants and kitchens throughout my life. In this position, I get to combine all those experiences across the business, food service, and healthcare sectors. I also get to work with numbers and spreadsheets, which has always been a knack of mine.
How did the University of Iowa Master of Clinical Nutrition program prepare you for your work as a registered dietitian?
The University of Iowa Master of Clinical Nutrition program did an excellent job of preparing me for the outside world after schooling and internships. The variety of rotations and hands-on experience gave me valuable insight into the day-to-day role of a Registered Dietitian while also preparing me for the big RD exam. Balancing coursework, clinical rotations, and personal responsibilities taught me how to manage my time effectively, stay professional, and build the skills needed to succeed in any environment.
What aspects of the program were most valuable in preparing you for your current role?
The greatest aspects I took away from the program were the variety of rotations and the real-world, hands-on experience. Balancing coursework, rotations, and personal responsibilities taught me how to manage my time effectively and stay organized under pressure. This program prepared me for the demands of life after school by helping me hone my skills such as critical thinking, adaptability, and professionalism. Overall, it gave me the confidence and practice I need to successfully transition into my career and provide high-quality work.
What has been the most rewarding part of your career since graduating from the program?
The people I’ve had the opportunity to work with have made all the difference. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their support. Because of them, I’ve had the opportunity to travel, meet many new people, attend conferences and professional events, and continue learning from others in the field. They’ve helped me grow both personally and professionally by giving me new responsibilities while allowing me to stay connected to the healthcare side of things, which is something I truly enjoy. I have the program to thank for opening these doors and giving me the opportunities.
What advice would you give to prospective students considering the Master of Clinical Nutrition program?
Go for it! This program has everything you could ask for or need. The vast number of resources available to you speaks for itself. Between working alongside the preceptors during rotations and having them available to you to ask any questions or advice is an immense help. Having a program director like Laurie be there for anything you need, whether it’s about class, rotations, or honestly just personal life advice, she’s always there to help you and get the most out of this program for you to excel after graduating. And finally, the friends and colleagues you’ll create along the way to help shape this path to the next step in life. Everyone in this program wants to bring out the full potential in you and wants to see you succeed, there’s nothing negative I could say about it. This is one of the best paths you can take as you move into the next stage of your career and life.