In my courses, I help students navigate through the often confusing and overwhelming principles of nutrition, analyzing the science behind fad diets, supplements, genetically modified organisms, vegetarianism, and more. I also guide future nutrition professionals through the exciting world of clinical nutrition, diet and disease prevention, and human resource management in food service, which includes how to effectively lead a team.
The field of nutrition and dietetics is ever changing. Over half of what I learned in school is different now. There are advances and discoveries in our field every day, and it is impossible to stay stagnant. There is also so much attention on social media given to self-proclaimed food and wellness bloggers propagandizing readers to ‘eat healthy,’ but some have no nutrition background and can misinform the public. With every topic we cover in my courses, students leave class knowing where they can turn for credible information.
Teaching students at UGA is an absolute privilege. I make sure students know that I care about their success during the semester and beyond. I have observed that doses of success, large or small, can have a profound impact on future achievements. If I can assist students in determining what sets them apart from others, and offer them opportunities to articulate this, I believe they will be better positioned for success in their professional and personal lives.