Alumni Testimonial: Ana

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"My time at UMass Amherst became the foundation of my entire career as a registered dietitian (RD). The experiences I gained during my undergraduate years not only shaped the RD I am today, but also equipped me with the skills and confidence to continuously contribute to this ever-evolving field. As an out-of-state student from Puerto Rico with no prior connections in Massachusetts, I was initially worried about finding opportunities beyond the classroom. However, the incredibly supportive faculty quickly became trusted mentors who guided me throughout my journey. With their help, I was able to gain experience in research, nutrition advising, clinical work at a nearby hospital, and even complete my own thesis. These experiences offered me valuable insight into the many ways nutrition impacts our society and helped me grow into a well-rounded, compassionate dietitian. Even now, as a practicing RD, I still find myself turning to UMass resources and the knowledge I gained there to continue growing professionally in this field."