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What Our Graduates Say

Helping Our Students Succeed

The Priority Nutrition Care Distance Dietetic Internship has been carefully developed, thoughtfully crafted and its quality rigorously tested to offer one of the best programs in the country. We've developed a unique  accredited Internship that provides the necessary knowledge and practices to position our graduates to enter the dietetic field feeling prepared and ready to demonstrate their preparedness, while taking into consideration the necessity for future Registered Dietitian Nutritionists to complete an Internship that is sensitive to their personal, family and other commitments, close to home saving them time and money.

Priority Nutrition Care's entire team is thoroughly committed to the  success of our Interns. See what our graduates have to say about the program.

The following are responses to these questions:

Would you recommend this Internship to other students ? What did this Internship mean to you personally? What advice do you have for newly accepted incoming Interns?

I would recommend this internship to anyone who is highly motivated to take charge of their experience and who genuinely wants to make the most out of it. If you are checking boxes, you won't get the most out of this experience. I would also recommend it to anyone who is organized and a planner, and is adaptable. I would NOT recommend this internship to anyone who thinks they will be spoon fed their experiences and isn't willing to put in the work. You are being given the opportunity to do this in an area of your choice and to meet and work with other professionals who can help you grow personally and professionally. Take full advantage of that, or else choose a different DI program. What did this Internship mean to you personally? This was the hardest and most challenging thing I have ever done in my life. I moved in with my husband's family, lived without him, took care of my 3 children, and fully committed myself to every rotation/experience and every assignment/project. I gave up all of my time and energy to this program and to balancing being a mom. I grew so incredibly much through this process. For all of the stress that it may have caused me regularly, I fought through it and came out even stronger, and more fulfilled than I could have imagined. What advice do you have for newly accepted incoming Interns? I will reiterate, if you are not fully committed to getting the most out of this experience, and willing to take initiative in every rotation to get the most out of it, then this isn't the DI for you. If you aren't willing to do the work on projects or assignments to grow professionally, this isn't the DI for you. Take advantage of every experience, even if it isn't something you have ever done and you aren't confident doing because you will only learn that much more by doing it. If you see opportunities to do more at a site beyond what is asked of you, volunteer to do it because you can see those areas where further growth could be possible. Don't limit what you can achieve from this experience.

Carrie King RDN University of Arizona

The program was rigorous and there was a lot of work involved outside of rotations, but it really prepared me to be a dietitian. This internship meant a lot to me. I worked very hard and took the work seriously. I believe you get from the program what you put in, and even with 2 children, I made this a priority. Be prepared to work hard and try to find information on your own before asking questions. In your preofesisonal work you will be expected to do this, so be confident and trust that you know what you are doing. Signature

Chanel Kenner RDN California State University Northridge

This internship allows you to complete it at home and choose where you want to go. I’m grateful for this opportunity and it allowed me experience many different areas of dietetics. Start looking for preceptors and getting you medical papers sorted as soon as you can.

Olivia Johnson RDN Johnson and Wales University

What did this Internship mean to you personally? It meant that I was one step closer to reaching my goal of sitting for the RD exam to become an RD that I have been working toward since 2017, also that it was a time where I learned and grew a lot personally as well as professionally What advice do you have for newly accepted incoming Interns? Be prepared for a lot of growth and change, to learn a lot, and to probably have some things not go quite as you thought

Alyssa Christoph RDN University of Arizona

The PNC internship has allowed me to stay in Washington for my internship. What did this Internship mean to you personally? It is a fast paced program which is well suited to my needs. What advice do you have for newly accepted incoming Interns? Stay organized. Lean on your small groups. Take breaks and be kind to yourself.

Molly Campbell MSN, RDN, CEDRD Washington

I enjoyed my experience with PNCDDI. This internship meant everything to me. This was the final step to becoming who I want to be in my career, and I made really amazing connections because of it. I cannot be more thankful for my small group and the friendships we all developed. What advice do you have for newly accepted incoming Interns? It will all work out even when it seems like it can't and the stress will soon be a memory.

Jamie Barnes RDN University of Alabama

Everyone was supportive of each other throughout the entire internship. I was able to ask questions and receive a response in a timely manner from the staff. This internship accepted me when I didn’t feel like I had many options given I graduated from college years ago. I am grateful for the opportunity I was given to complete the internship with other professionals who were supportive. Plan ahead when completing assignments, keep a planner and ask group members questions prior to emailing the internship.

Stephanie Aviles RDN Lehman College

This internship meant a lot to me. I was told by my DPD advisor that I would never be a RDN. I am finally able to prove to the academic advisor that I am capable of becoming a Registered Dietitian. Be prepared to figure out what works well for their schedule and to make sure you stay on top of projects and assignments. I would recommend an intern be self directed and have their own thoughts.

Jennifer Golding BS, RDN Ball State University

I had an excellent experience with PNCDDI. Issues will always come up, and when they did for me, the internship was able to help me through and be very flexible. I had already recommended this internship to someone I graduated with and offered to help her get through the initial process. Another woman I went to school with reached out to me once she secured her position with PNC asking about preceptors, and I gladly helped her find one. Completing the internship to me was very special. I started my journey of going to college late in life. I already had to take care of my family. I didn't think I would ever do anything of these things. I had one goal in mind once I started school: to become an RD. It has been a long road, and I could not have done it without my family. I feel empowered to go out into the world of dietetics with confidence, share what I have learned, and help people build a better relationship with food and their bodies. I have found fulfillment through this process, which I believe will lead to a career I love for the rest of my life and help me to provide a more secure future for my family. My advice to new interns is to write out a schedule to 1.) stay on top of when assignments are due, pencil in times when you plan to complete that work, and save copies of all of it because you will most likely need that information later in the internship or during a rotation. 2.) Start looking for preceptors right away. Make it your full-time job until you secure one! 3.) Be willing to give up weekends and occasionally stay up late, or do anything it takes to do an excellent job with your work. Having a good work ethic will stand out.

Bernadine Alaniz BS, RDN California State Univerisity, Northridge

It was an intense but a good opportunity to complete an internship locally and quickly. To me this internship allowed me the opportunity to not relocate and complete rotations in an environment where I knew I would succeed. It also allowed me to complete my goal in a short of time. It's okay that you don't know all of the answers now, that's why you are completing an internship. The answers will come with research, time, and experience because we never stop learning.

Lyssa Wright BS, RDN Ashland University

I would recommend PNCDDI to other students because of the time frame of the program and the helpful assignments that must be completed. This internship was a meaningful experience that has greatly helped me to develop and enhance my skills in the nutrition field. I have gathered an idea of what area of the field I wish to work in as a registered dietitian. I would advise newly accepted incoming interns to take some time to review their notes/lectures from their medical nutrition therapy class(es) to prepare themselves for their clinical rotation.

Leah Gardner BS, RDN BS University of Kentucky

The flexibility of this program was great. Completing this internship was a critical step forward for my career/professional life. Make sure your schedule is totally open.

Seth Thomas BS RDN University of Southern Indiana

I would endorse this internship because it gives you a taste of the real world and helps to build your confidence and independence. I felt that this internship has prepared me well to be a entry level dietitian. It has shown me what I am capable of anything and pushed me to achieve anything I set my mind too. Be prepared to work hard and dedicate your life to achievement. This internship is what you make of it and if you aren't willing to put your best foot forward and work harder than you ever have, you will struggle. You must be independent and organized to succeed in a distant program.

Jayla Thurman BS RDN The University of Georgia

One has the flexibility to look for preceptors, and the internship can be done in less time than most programs. It represented one more step towards my goal of becoming a registered dietitian Ensure you are on top of what has to be done during the program. As long as they are on track with assignments and projects, everything will go smoother and with less stress. Signature

Glenda Ordonez-ANazco RDN BS RDN University of Hawaii

I would definitely recommend this internship to other students. The main reason is that all the program staff was very accommodating and understanding of each individual student's circumstances. Additionally, if a student would like to find their own rotation sites, PNCDDI is the perfect program for that! This internship gave me the opportunity to finally put all my years of schooling into action. I was also able to work in different settings and determine how I would like to set myself up in my future career, and for that, I am forever grateful! My main piece of advice for incoming interns is to be organized and use your time wisely. It is essential to be organized and work on assignments/projects in advance so you are not cramming it all quickly. It is also important to take it day by day... it goes by faster than you think it will!

Hadassah Herzka BS City University of New York

I would recommend this internship because it was short but very effective. I also loved being able to work from home on Friday's, and meeting people from all over the U.S. This internship was something I was so nervous about being able to complete. Now that I have completed it I am so proud of myself, and thankful for the journey. It has been tough but very rewarding, and I can not wait to finally be a RD. Do your best, and learn as much as possible while at each rotation site. It is a tough 6 months, but it will fly by. Good luck! You can do it!

Shaina Sweeney BS Johnson and Wales University

This internship was great due to the length of the program and the ability to find your own preceptors and sites. Completing this internship was an exciting step for me because I am one step closer to becoming an RD! What advice do you have for newly accepted incoming Interns? 1. Make sure to find reliable preceptors and sites 2. You are going to be under a lot of stress; plan accordingly. 3. If you need to work a paying job along with the internship, it is going to be A LOT. Try to make as much time for yourself as you can. 4. Don't be afraid to ask questions during your rotations. You are still learning.

Caeley Bachman BS Johnson and Wales University

I loved being able to start the program in June right after I graduated in May and be able to stay local so I could save money on rent and stay close to my support system. I was a great opportunity to explore new possible career paths and get better connected to dietitians in my area. It allowed me to grow professionally and become better prepared for my first job. Learn as much as you can while in the program and start studying for the RD exam early on.

Kelli Hanson BS Kansas State University

I would recommend it due to the short completion time and the flexibility within the internship. What did this Internship mean to you personally? It was the next step in obtaining my ultimate goal of becoming an RD and I am grateful for the opportunity to be able to go through and complete the program. What advice do you have for newly accepted incoming Interns? Always stay on top of assignments and submit your best work always. Don't submit subpar assignments.

Ashton (Brown) Daniel BS Tennessee Technological University

I would recommend this internship because it is straight to the point and speeds you in 6 months to become Registration Eligible. The assignments are very useful, and I think for someone who has no experience within the profession will help them get the idea of what is expected. Personally, this internship experience can be explained with the word "supportive". I needed this internship more than it needed me, and grateful PNCDDI took a chance with me and I hope I have made everyone proud. Be on top of your A-game, read emails, forms, assignments 3-5x so you understand what is being expected. They are the main source of communication and most of the time your answer is in front of you. Breathe, each rotation will fly by.

Samantha Williamson BS State University of New York Plattsburgh

I would recommend PNC for the short internship length and convenience of a distance internship. I believe all my assignments were graded quickly and I was able to do PAL credits. I am passionate about my career and having the opportunity to become a RDN opens many pathways for me. What advice do you have for newly accepted incoming Interns? Take it day by day and work hard. Do not settle for low salary, always negotiate.

Bich-Tran (Jamie) MS. Lamar University BS. Kansas State University

I would recommend this Internship to other students, depending on each situation. I think for interns looking for flexibility is a good choice. I liked that the intern could choose site and preceptors and that it can provide credit from previous experiences (PAL) It meant increasing my knowledge and practice in certain areas that were not strong. Networking and building a strong network of contacts. I was able to meet many interesting people and make connections which may become job opportunities and references in the future. Try to learn from every experience as much as you can even though you feel is not the area you like the most. Enjoy meeting new people and make good connections.

Florencia Tarasido RDN Atlanta, Georgia

This internship allowed me the flexibility to be able to live in my area. Also, I was granted credit for my work experience which the majority of internships do not take into account. I have taken a huge step in fulfilling my lifelong goal of becoming a dietitian. This is almost 10 years of persevering to get where I am today. My advice would be to work hard and review the Inman binder throughout your internship and try to apply it to the rotation you are at.

Tiffany Lankford (Mascho) RDN University of Texas at Austin

For me, this internship meant that my ongoing tenacity to get to this place in my life had finally "paid off". It meant I had access to form lasting professional relationships and to develop into a well rounded practitioner. Every rotation there is opportunity to grow, learn, and make connections.

Meghan Kenny RDN University of New Hampshire

I would recommend this internship, but only to individuals who are prepared to put the extra work in of finding their own preceptors and securing rotations. I believe a distance program requires additional skills, especially self management, in order to be successful. This internship meant opening a crucial door for my career. This experience has helped solidify what kind of position I am looking for. I have had the chance to meet some great mentors who are supportive of my next steps. This internship help build my confidence and has me feeling excited for a fruitful future. My advice is to stay focused, manage your time wisely, and soak in every moment of learning.

Katelyn Colling RDN Madonna University

This program offered a fast way of completing an internship, especially with the PAL credit. The program administration was also incredibly flexible and understanding of weird situations/hardships. The internship was a challenge. There were parts I thought I wasn't going to make it through, but I'm really proud that I did. It's been a long academic journey to get to this point. I proved it to myself that I could do it. It's going to be A LOT of work. You'll get home from your rotation and immediately start working on assignments. Stay ahead of it, do a little bit every day, and know that even though it feels like a lot, the internship goes by really quickly.

Alisa Chen RDN University of Arizona

I would recommend this internship to students who are good at managing their time and who thrive on making their own schedules and working independently. I would also recommend this internship because I felt that I had good support from my small group. I enjoyed working with them every Friday and I feel that it made the internship experience better for me. I also enjoyed the large group meetings with Maria and she offered good support. I'm grateful that I had the opportunity to have a distance internship. It was important for me to stay in my area because I want to end up here for my career. I believe that I've grown as a person through this internship year. It has been exceptionally difficult doing the internship through the pandemic. I've learned that if I truly want something I can overcome all obstacles. I enjoyed having my small group with my fellow interns. It was great to have the support of each other through this experience. I feel that I'm prepared to start my career and I can't be more excited.

Rachel Dix RDN Kent State University

I recommend this internship because it gives students an amazing opportunity that I am incredibly thankful for. Most importantly it gave me the opportunity to follow my dreams, close to my family and friends which was very valuable to me. It allowed me "a choice" in where I wanted to commute to everyday and what type of facility I wanted to go to. I will be recommending this internship to all my fellow students attending undergrad.

Ashley Fichera RDN University of New Hampshire

I would recommend this internship to other students who don't mind an accelerated internship and finding their own preceptors. I enjoyed being able to find my own preceptors and gain the experience in each rotation. I also enjoyed getting to know my three group members and becoming good friends with them over the course of the internship. I personally feel that the internship allowed me to take on one step to becoming a Registered Dietitian and I am very grateful and appreciated that I was accepted into this program to allow me to gain the knowledge and experience needed for me to grow.

Ashley Wight RDN Framingham State University

The internship allowed me to curate the best possible experience for my personal interests. This internship meant I could pick experiences I knew would be worthwhile to myself, with internship approval. The internship also gave me great accountability as I knew when assignments were due ahead of time so I could plan accordingly when to do them.

Anna Rosell RDN Rutgers University

It was a good experience and it allowed me to complete the DI in a 6 month period and use preceptors in my geographical area. This internship meant a lot for me because I learned a lot at my sites. It meant more to me that I did not have to leave my husband to complete the DI and that I was able to have an experience that was controlled by me by allowing me to choose my preceptors.

Sarah Williams RDN The University of Alabama

I recommend PNCDDI because it allows you to have more flexibility and finish earlier, especially if you have PAL credit. The fact that I was able to choose my own preceptors was my favorite part because I was so fortunate to have very intelligent preceptors and they were able to share their knowledge with me. It made me grow socially and professionally. Especially in the clinical and elective rotation. I felt very proud to be a dietetic intern and soon an RD, and the care we provide to our patients in the intensive care unit was exceptional and crucial for their overall improved prognosis.

Christian Cazarez Camacho RDN University of Arizona

I would recommend this internship to students that want flexibility getting experience from locations of their choice. I had the opportunity to intern at a facility I thought I might be interested in and ended up getting a job offer from them post internship. There was also emphasis on preparing for the RD exam and I especially benefited from Jean Inman's review presentations.

Kaitlyn Moser RDN University of Wisconsin Green Bay

I would recommend this internship. I thought it was an extremely beneficial program and it helps students really bridge the gap between intern and RD by the end of the program. I really enjoyed my time with this program and I think any new student would feel the same. All the work was relevant to my career in the future and I learned so much. This internship meant so much to me. I grew incredibly in these past six months. It changed me for the better and I really mastered the art of hard work. I feel so accomplished to have made it to this moment and knowing that all my hard work has paid off. I finally feel fully confident to practice as an entry level Registered Dietitian.

Eekra Ahsan RDN University of Connecticut in Storrs

I would recommend this internship because I believe that it has prepared me for my future career. It has prepared me in every way possible and was an amazing experience. I was able to stay close to home while gaining the experience that I needed.

Danielle Christiano RDN Marywood University

The program as a whole served its purpose of preparing me to become a well-rounded, empathetic, educated, and capable RD. I enjoyed the program length and the design of the program. The price point of the program was also a benefit of the program compared to other programs.

Loryn Hartbarger RDN Western Carolina University

I would recommend this internship to other students who are self driven and who have strong work ethics. This internship has provided me with an amazing preceptor for 3 of my rotations, as well as resources that gave me a level of knowledge that I will use a basis for my career. I believe this internship provides students with materials and resources they need to be successful in this profession. Personally, this internship allowed me to test my strength physically and mentally. There were some weeks where I felt exhausted, overwhelmed, and I felt like this was not the career for me. Other weeks I felt empowered by how much I had accomplished at my rotation sites and how well I had lead my group because of the recognition I had received. This internship allowed me to see how well I will work in this profession, and I truly believe I am prepared to enter it because of the communication skills I have gained along with the knowledge and skills I have learned from my rotation sites. I was very lucky to have two amazing preceptors to shape my career as an aspiring RD, and I would not have been able to utilize their knowledge and resources if it were not for this internship.

Andie Hilton RDN University of Rhode Island

I have grown as a health professional through the experience I've gained during the internship. Also, completing a distance internship during pandemic molded me into a more versatile individual. I am excited to make a nutritional impact in the world as a future Registered Dietitian.

Megan Mirza RDN California State University, Fresno

I would recommend this internship because it has taught me a lot about the field of dietetics. It was an excellent and rewarding experience that helped me set and understand my own personal future goals. The internship has taught me a lot. I learned how to work in the various areas related to dietetics and gained a lot of confidence in myself. I felt like I really had a support system through the internship. I now know what my future goals are.

Morgan Mccain RDN Western Michigan University

This internship is another milestone in my dream career, and I was able to soak in more knowledge than I ever thought was possible. I found new things I loved in the dietetics profession. Being given this opportunity amidst a pandemic taught me valuable lessons that I will be able to carry with me throughout my future career as a dietitian.

Taylor McIntyre RDN Iowa State University

The internship is short and very flexible. It really fit into my current lifestyle to be able to setup my own rotations.

Dylan Chang RDN Florida International University

Being able to be part of a distance internship provides a lot of flexibility along with independence to tailor your experience to what you would like to do. I'm thankful for this internship as it has given me the opportunity to advance my career as a dietitian. I have learned many valuable lessons that I can take with me as I enter into the field of nutrition.

Isaac Lin RDN University of California, Davis

I would recommend this internship to those that can independently study. I think there is a strong value in having the ability to remain in your area to complete the internship and build professional connections, while simultaneously making connections throughout the US with other interns. The projects and case studies also help prepare you for entering the work force.

Sarah Arseneau RDN Texas Woman's University

I would recommend PNC because of the comprehensiveness of the program. I enjoyed being fully immersed in a particular rotation for the 6-7 weeks because I felt it allowed plenty of time to see the pros and cons of that specific area. I also gained a lot from the level of professionalism that was expected as an intern and to the extents that helped me grow individually. This internship showed me that I could complete challenging tasks and be successful. This is related to the above statement that in order to grow, you have to do uncomfortable things. Being fully-independent and responsible for finding preceptors, showing up every day, completing all required tasks, and doing it all with the highest level of standards showed me that I can do challenging things. It is hard doing a DI fully remote and I am beyond thankful for the lessons I learned personally because it has allowed me to grow in areas I was hoping to. I am excited to take these experiences into new areas and accept new and challenging opportunities.

Dylan Craze RDN University of Tennessee Knoxville

By completing this internship, it means personal growth, I am one step close to my dream career, and build friendships with other interns in my small group.

Yaya Jarrett RDN University of Memphis

I would recommends this internship to other dietetic students. think this internship is very flexible with rotations and allows for a great diversity of experience. They allow you to be independent, while also providing support when needed.

Brooke Martin RDN University of Wisconsin-Green Bay

I am very grateful for the opportunity to complete my internship for PNC. It has been a long journey completing school and getting to this point and I just cannot believe I am done!

Shelby Burns RDN California State University, Los Angeles

This DI gave me the opportunity to stay with family for the last 7 months and focus on my education and future without the financial aspect of rent or housing. I was able to stay with family for up to 7 weeks at a time and I value that time greatly as I will probably never have that opportunity again. I was able to spend time with Dietitians, some of which I already knew and respected. This DI gave me the time and credits needed for my professional future in a timely and efficient set up creating me the opportunity to take my exam and begin my future quickly. I am so grateful for this PNC. Thank you so much, Anne, Katelyn, and Maria!

JoBeth Guerra RDN Ouachita Baptist University

It is a good opportunity/ option for those looking for a distance internship that they can stay where they are located.

Kelly Klute RDN Ohio State University

I would recommend this internship to other students who are extremely independent or have great experience that would enable them to shorten their internship. This internship to me was the final piece to my second career puzzle. I began my journey almost 4 years ago exactly. I am now able to take my experiences and knowledge I learned with me as I embark on a new and exciting journey in my dream career field. I could not be more ecstatic!

Samantha Drake RDN Johnson and Wales University Denver Campus

I enjoyed the flexibility and freedom of finding my own rotations. I was also happy that PAL credit was offered. I am so proud of myself for completing my dietetic internship. I worked very hard to be where I am right now and I am so excited that I am finally one step away from becoming a dietitian!

Jaclyn Konefal RDN University of Alabama

I would recommend it because the internship had my future in mind and every assignment had a purpose for the future. It meant a lot to me when it comes to forwarding my dietetics future and puts me one step closer to achieving my dream of being a sports RD.

Bryce E Allison RDN University of Nebraska-Lincoln

I would recommend this internship to other students because of the flexibility of finding your own preceptors and the fast-paced environment with PNC. Personally, the internship was a good stepping stone into the real world of dietetics. It's challenged me mentally, physically, and emotionally. I feel better prepared for the nutrition field.

Jeffrey Montoya RDN California State University, Los Angeles

This internship truly cares about the students success for the future. It has allowed me to gain in depth experience in areas of dietetics that I enjoy and and look forward to in the future. This internship meant everything to me, It has allowed me to be one step closer to doing what I truly enjoy each day. The internship allowed me to have control over my own experiences and what I learned.

Tiffany Jacobs-Millett RDN University of Maine Orono

This internship brought me one step closer to my goal of becoming an RD. I have worked very long and hard to get to where I am today, and I am grateful that I was able to successfully complete a dietetic internship program during the pandemic. It challenged me in ways that will benefit me as a professional.

Linna Douk RDN Johnson & Wales University

I am so grateful for the opportunity to complete this internship to finally become a registered dietitian.

Leticia Ortiz RDN Montclair State University

To me this internship was the next step in completing my licensure as an RD. It was a way for me to get one step closer to my goal which I am almost able to reach. I also felt like it was a way for me to prepare for life as an RD in the workforce and help transition from college to a professional RD.

Ashton Wells RDN Eastern Kentucky University

I waited to apply to internships after completing my undergraduate program for a variety of reasons. I am so thankful for being accepted to PNC. This program and my experience has shown me that everyone's path to becoming an RD is different. When we were first told we had to stay home during the internship, I was honestly beside myself. I couldn't fathom gaining the needed experience from home. This internship, especially during this time, has shown me the importance of adaptability, being open minded, and taking personal responsibility in achieving your goals. This internship and experience has provided me with new skills and a new perspective on how to move through my career and personal life. I would like to thank each and everyone of you at PNC for the experience you were able to provide during this time. Anne, thank you for providing me with this life changing opportunity and providing a direct path for helping me to achieve my goal. Katelyn, thank you for your communication and organizational skills. Paula and Maria thank you both for your insights and feed back throughout our presentations. Thank you all, for everything!

Lauren Haeme RDN Appalachian State University

The PNC team reacted quickly and effectively to the pandemic and made the necessary changes to allow the internship class to continue.

Ruby Bradshaw MS, RDN Bastyr University

This internship was very important to me as I have been looking forward to becoming a Registered Dietitian for many years. I have dedicated a lot of hard work to get to this point. This internship helped me to become a professional and has left me feeling prepared for my future. I am excited to see what the future holds!

Aleaha Wacker RDN West Chester University of Pennsylvania

I will definitely recommend PNC since they demonstrated leadership in their field during these difficult times. It is easier to do the things we are used to when everything is going our way, the real challenge comes when all of the sudden things are turned around and the old way of doing things is no longer possible. The approach that PNC took during the pandemic was outstanding. They really demonstrated concern about their interns and did their very best to help us to get through the Internship without suspending it or postponing it. PNC not only demonstrated leadership, but it also set an example for standards of professionalism and caring for their interns by putting safety first and for that I am very grateful. It was a season for growth. Personal, spiritual, and professional growth. This internship brought a lot of value to my life, not only as a professional, but it also shaped me in many ways. By learning the art of being disciplined, committed, focused and staying positive during hard times, it gave me a sense of accomplishment and purpose. I am glad they didn’t stop the internship during the pandemic. By continuing with the internship, it made the whole situation easier to handle and by having something to keep working towards, it helped us feel productive and with a sense of purpose.

Perla Nelson RDN Montclair State University

The distance format was very valuable to me. I would only encourage the internship if the student is self-motivated and organized, but if they possess these qualities, I found PNC to be a great, flexible program to improve networking and customize to your personal interests in the field. I loved the opportunity to complete the internship from my home. There are very limited internship opportunities where I live, and driving hours each day or relocating was not an option with family responsibilities. PNC provided me an opportunity to practically pursue my goal of being an RD and make great connections with other dietitians in my area.

Holly Wise RDN The University of Northern Colorado

I was impressed with the quick adjustments made to help interns complete the internship during COVID 19. PNC found useful information that would help with experience to prepare interns and were receptive of webinars and educational experiences discovered by interns. The internship represents completion of a long term goal that I started almost 7 years ago, it is a source of personal pride.

Melinda Barnum MS, RDN Arizona State University

I would recommend this internship program to others because of the convenience of the distance aspect itself. I found that being able to choose where to fulfill my rotations provides interns with freedom and the ability to personalize their rotation experiences, within reason of course. Also, the coordinators of the program have been very supportive and insightful. Concerning topics were always addressed and personal questions were always promptly responded to. These coordinators also have provided insight and suggestions as we pursue our own dietetic career and for that I am grateful for. This internship represented a major milestone in my life. Overcoming so many barriers throughout my years of education and not getting matched both years I have applied was disheartening. However, having built so many connections through my work and volunteering, I found that a distance internship would in fact work out perfectly for me eventhough I had never considered this type of program before. So getting accepted into this program and completing all the required hours and competencies after all this time is overwhelmingly relieving and I couldn't be happier with my experience with the program. I now have this milestone accomplished and I am much more motivated to move onto my solidified career as a Registered Dietitian now.

Victoria Ip RDN Montclair State University

It took me 9 years since obtaining my degree to finally be able to apply to and complete a full time internship in order to complete my goals of becoming a Registered Dietitian. The flexibility of the distance program and timelines as well as being able to use PAL credit made managing an internship along with life in general easier and by the end, I felt like the time had flown by quickly.

Melanie Levine RDN The Ohio State University

I appreciated the flexibility that doing a distance program gave to me. I enjoyed finding my own preceptors and feel that the sites I worked at were great places of learning for me. Being able to make and keep my own deadlines for assignments was also a positive experience for me. The length of rotations seemed very appropriate. I established great connections with dietitians in my area as I found preceptors for my rotations. I appreciate the hands-on experience I had that allowed me to apply the knowledge I have. This internship helped me become a confident and competent entry-level dietitian.

Sarah Godfrey RDN Brigham Young University

I would recommend this internship because I think it gives students a lot of flexibility and support. This internship really helped me develop a lot of critical thinking skills that I plan to use as an RD.

Katherine Brown RDN London School of Economics

First and foremost, I cannot thank PNCDDI enough for this wonderful opportunity to be one of their interns! This experience has changed my life and given me a career that I love and can be proud of. It means so much more to me because I failed to match on my first attempt 3 years ago (I did not apply to PNC). I will continue to spread the word about the program to my friends, colleagues, and anyone else who may be interested in becoming a RD. I want to especially thank Anne and Paula for all of their hard work and for making so many of our dreams come true.

Leah Huynh RDN University of Maryland, College Park

I have already recommended this internship to other students. I really liked the distance aspect of this internship because you can save money buy living at home and also choose the area where you want to attend your rotations. I also liked the small groups in the internship because it made it feel very personal even though it was a large internship class. It was also helpful how emails and questions were answered very promptly by the internship and they were flexible when I had health issues and had to take time off for a portion of my rotation. Overall, I recommend this program because it thoroughly prepared me for becoming an entry level RD and the assignments were very relevant and meaningful for the field. The internship was a very rewarding experience and gave me a lot more self confidence. I was able to learn a lot about myself during my rotations, as well as, apply everything I learned in undergrad into real life situations. During this time I learned what I liked and what I did not like relating to working in nutrition and it helped me figure out what I wanted to do in my future career. I met a lot of great people through this internship and I wouldn't have been able to successfully finish this program without their support. Overall, this internship is something I am very proud of completing and I really appreciated the support and guidance from the whole PNC team.

Jenna LoDebole RDN The University of Rhode Island

Personally, this internship was valuable to my future career and myself. It allowed me to grow professionally and personally, especially due to the pandemic. I was tested in ways I never thought I would. In-person supervised practice created key skills for my future career including patient care and education skills. Remote working forced me to look inward at my work ethic and goals. There was no longer a preceptor, in person holding me accountable every minute. I had to hold myself accountable as I will in my future career if I want to be successful. Without this internship, I do not think I would have gained these skills. I grew as a professional and as a person.

Danielle Roberts RDN The Ohio State University

This internship meant a lot to me and helped me see that I am capable of accomplishing my dreams. After college I wanted to move to New York and complete my DI there and that’s exactly what I did.

Michelle Wolff RDN The University of North Florida

It meant so much to me that preceptors valued a distance program as being more difficult in many ways than a traditional on-site program and not treating a distance program a second-rate choice. I felt I had to be on top of my game, hold myself accountable, and that I really earned my place as a dietitian.

Gabrielle Humlie RDN Oregon State University

"This internship allowed me to achieve my dream of becoming a Registered Dietitian. At this exact time last year, I was losing hope that it would happen as these internships are very competitive. I am very grateful Mrs. Manion took the time to read my whole application and saw me as more than a GPA number. I learned so much about the field of dietetics and about myself through this internship. I even had the wonderful opportunity to complete my clinical rotation in Boston with Paula Reveliotis, since it is difficult to find clinical sites in Arizona. For the last few years, my goal has been to complete this internship and pass the exam. Now that I am (almost!) here, I am excited to set new goals and continue to grow and learn as a dietitian. Thank you to Mrs. Manion and the PNC team."

Dana Stapleton RDN Arizona State University

I was very happy to have the opportunity to complete a distance internship allowing me to stay in my home area. I also work well and learn best on my own and this internship allowed me that freedom. This internship meant that I could move toward my dream of becoming a dietitian so that I am one step closer to working with diabetic clients and making sure that such clients gain the knowledge they need to be healthy and manage their disease. I am happy to announce that as of this past Saturday I am officially a Registered Dietitian !! I begin my new position this week as a PRN Dietitian for Crozer Health System where I will be working in both inpatient and outpatient! Very exciting!!! Thank you for providing me the opportunity to achieve this dream.

Danielle Volpe RDN Westchester University September 11, 2017

This internship helped me grow and advocate for myself. I felt I got valuable opportunities to learn in this field. It was a big achievement and I feel very proud of myself for all the work I accomplished. I didn’t think that I would be where I am today with the career that I am so passionate about. It was challenging at times but I learned so much.

Megan Labine RDN University of Wisconsin Green Bay

I would definitely recommend this internship to other students. The distance dietetic internship format allows flexibility of rotations sites. Also, the constant support from the program's large and small groups help future interns along the way.This internship helped me grow professionally as a future dietitian getting practical work experience in the 3 major areas of nutrition. Our assignments provided the research and educational components for the current practice of dietetics. The program also helped me grow as a person, enhancing critical thinking, communication and time management skills. It was a surreal feeling when the last assignment was submitted as the internship has been a central focus and important part of my life. I have been fortunate to have such a positive internship experience.Northeastern University

Colleen Rogers RDN Northeastern University

I liked the freedom of being able to choose my own rotation sites and not having to relocate. My preceptors were absolutely amazing. I liked the orientation that was provided before the program started. I went to Boston for the first time and it was a new adventure for me. I have made lifelong friends with my small groups and seeing them every week was great for mental support. The weekly webinars were also great because I got to hear what other interns were doing. I am please to announce that I have passed the exam!! Thank you for all your support and guidance throughout the internship.

Reiko Kobayashi-Wagner MS, RDN Bastyr University September 12, 2017

I have already recommended this internship to many nutrition students. Although challenging at times, I believe this internship has taught me how to take full responsibility and use my network and resources wisely. I would also love to precept future interns and help them with additional networking opportunities. This was a great opportunity to grow as not only a nutrition professional but as a person in general. I learned so much from all of my preceptors about various nutrition topics regarding different populations, but more importantly, I learned and practiced expressing many professional attributes throughout. Within these past 7 months I feel I have grown tremendously in how I present myself to others in a professional manner. I can't thank the entire PNC team enough for helping me complete this program and preparing me for my future career in Dietetics! I wanted to inform you that as of 7PM tonight I officially passed the RD exam. Thank you all so much for everything you have done for me throughout my internship experience. It has been a pleasure working with you and I look forward to starting my career as an RD!

Lauren Gould RDN Johnson and Wales University September 11, 2017

Thank you for all you have done for us throughout the internship. It has been a great journey and I hope you feel that it went well and are excited for the next group! I really enjoyed my internship and am so grateful that I was able to make it specific to my interests and make networking connections throughout. I will continue to encourage others to apply for the PNCDDI and can't wait to see what the internship looks like in the future. Again, thank you for this wonderful opportunity to allow me to continue to pursue my dream of becoming a Dietitian.

Hannah Brass RDN Colorado State University

This internship granted me the ability to pursue my professional goals as a Registered Dietitian. While it was very difficult to manage my time, the amount of discipline and growth gained from this internship has sculpted me into a competent professional.

Adrienne Rae- Velasquez RDN Cal Poly Pomona

It was great to be able to set up your own rotation sites! This internship to me was a great opportunity to gain organization skills since we were required to set up our own rotations. I learned how to be self-directed and to prioritize my work. PNC was a great program that I am happy to have been a part of!

Alexa Siminsky RDN University of Rhode Island

I would recommend this internship due to the ability to make it what the intern wants it to be and to find rotations that they are interested in. This internship was a good experience and I am excited to begin my professional career.

Allison Henson RDN Miami University

I would recommend this Internship for the individual that can self motivate. It allows you to get as specific into areas that you are interested and really explore the area of dietetics. You have to be your own boss but depending on the person that could be great. This has been a goal of mine for about 2 years, so to finally get into an internship and be allowed to have some freedoms with my location choices was exactly what I needed at this point in my life. And now I have landed in a dream job of mine so to be given the opportunity to be an intern was such a blessing.

Alyssa Bransley RDN Clemson University

Being required to form relationships with preceptors and build your own schedule taught me time management and organizational skills that I will hold on to forever. I loved being in control (to an extent) of the facilities I could potentially spend my time in. This internship meant that I have accomplished everything that I have worked on for 5 years in undergrad. The amount of times I have felt discouraged and not good enough as some of my classmates during my undergraduate career, I never thought I would have made it this far and I am so proud of myself and happy to be a PNCDDI alumni.

Alyssa Pernice RDN University of Delaware

This internship allowed me to be self-motivated and independent. I was able to set-up my internship at sites that interested me and would aide in my education within fields I am interested in. I was also able to make many connections within the field that will help me in the future. This internship was a great accomplishment for me. I was able to prove to myself that I am capable of becoming a Registered Dietitian but continuing to work hard, stay organized, and gain experiences. I got out of my comfort zone many times which was beneficial in my experience as an intern. I have learned so much and thankful for the experience PNCDDI provided me.

Andrea Keiser RDN Colorado State University

I have recommended PNCDDI to my former coworker at Community Medical Center. As long as you have your sites mostly set, it is a good, cost effective internship. This internship was a culmination of many, many years of school. It feels amazing to finally be done and be able to get my RD credential.

Anne Sugrue RDN Rutgers

This program allowed flexibility in the rotations. We are able to find our own preceptors and do our supervised practice in areas of interest. Although it was difficult for me to find a FS or clinical site in Boston, I have been more than satisfied with the experience I've gained. In speaking with fellow alumni from school, I found that the structure of the program allowed me to develop closer networking relationships. Hospital-based program has interns with multiple preceptors from one week to another. Being able to be with a preceptor for 4-8 weeks allowed me to build up a lasting impression and relationship with both my preceptor and the staff at my sites. I grew both personally and professionally because of the independence this program allowed.

Annie Sam RDN Drexel University

I was able to hand pick whom I’d be working with and the locations. Yes it was hard work to make the internship schedule work but I feel I received a unique experience while meeting all internship requirements. I was able to work with people I knew or chose and in most cases I was the only intern, so I felt I had more one-on-one teachings. I was also able to spend time in another state (with my family) which I wouldn’t have had the opportunity with another internship.

Anya Hoger RDN University of Minnesota

I would recommend this internship. The internship is well-organized and each intern knows what is expected of them. I developed friendships with people that live hours away from me and in different times zones which mean a lot to me and I feel confident in my ability to practice dietetics.

Ashley Belew RDN Middle Tennessee State University

I found this internship to be extremely flexible due to the nature of it being distance. I did not find the work load to be too much and I thoroughly enjoyed my experience. I feel well prepared to start my career as an RD. It provided me the confidence I needed to start my career. It provided a network of other students to connect with and discuss our experiences.

Ashley Stickley RDN Virginia Tech

I think the internship did a great job of providing guidance and support while still allowing for interns to learn and make decisions independently. This has meant everything to me. When I look back over the last 8 and a half months, I can't believe how much I grew both personally and professionally throughout the internship. I'm ready to take the RD exam and enter the workforce because of how well I was prepared by my preceptors and the amazing PNC team, who were always encouraging and supportive. I've accomplished so many things that I was a little bit scared to try. As I move forward with my life and career I'm grateful for the solid network of professional support that I built throughout the 8 months and for PNC for challenging me in a very positive way. My confidence is at an all-time high. Thank you to the entire PNC team for believing in me and for making me part of the family!

Brianna Wordell RDN University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point

I enjoyed that I could set my own rotations. I was able to choose sites that were of benefit to me and not necessarily where I would be placed in other internships. I was able to pursue and receive further experiences. I made friends and I felt part of a community even being in a distance program.

Brianne Binford RDN U of North Carolina at Wilmington & U of Alabama

"I feel that distance programs are a wonderful choice for any student searching for an internship program. PNCDDI was a great choice for for me as a non-traditional student. PNCDDI gave me the ability to manage my schedule the way I needed to. I could set up rotations with people who I enjoyed working with and who would know me personally. I felt many preceptors had a personal investment in me in a way that assigned preceptors from another internship would not have. Being a wife and a mother, this internship was very do-able. Meetings were done virtually rather than in person and assignments could be completed at my own pace. My small group was a great support system. I'm very happy I had the opportunity to meet with them every week throughout the internship. We plan to remain connected throughout our journey as dietitians. My Program Coordinator, Maria Hall, was so great to talk to every week and I'm happy for all of the stimulating conversations I got to be a part of in our Wednesday night meetings! Mrs. Hall, Mrs. Manion, and Kelsey were all very responsive to questions emailed throughout my experience.

Devin Fudge RDN Texas Womens' University

I would recommend this internship to others because I feel it was very beneficial to have such a self-directed experience. The CRDN's were challenging but I believe each of them helped prepare me for my career as a Registered Dietitian in some way. I feel like I have grown as a nutrition professional and I am so ready to enter the profession thanks to this internship. This internship meant a lot to me personally. During my undergraduate program, I did not do as well in my some of my classes as I had hoped and was considered a very "average" student. I was led to believe that I had no real chance of obtaining a dietetic internship since I did not have a 4.0 GPA. I felt very discouraged after graduating, and sort of gave up on my goal to become a RD. After two years of working in jobs outside of the nutrition field, I finally decided to try and get back on track and give applying to dietetic internships a shot. I knew someone who had completed this program prior and encouraged me to apply, and I am so glad that I did. This internship provided me with an opportunity that I never thought would be possible, and now here I am studying to take the Registered Examination for Dietitians. It has been quite the roller coaster ride but I can honestly say I am so happy with the way things have turned out. Everything happens for a reason and I just could not thank PNCDDI enough for this opportunity.

Diane Pierzchala RDN Framingham State University

It was flexible, and I was able to personalize my internship based on my interests. I didn't have to relocate, and I made close relationships with each of my preceptors. It meant getting closer to my long term goal of becoming a dietitian. I learned so much and gained great experience in the field.

Erin Mulvey RDN Syracuse University

I would definitely recommend PNC because of the flexibility it provides its interns in location. Being able to set up rotations in the place where you would like to practice allows the intern to establish very valuable professional connections. Additionally, finding your own rotations when in a distance program allows the intern to practice in rotations in which they are most interested and obtain job offers that may not be available to them in a traditional internship. Through most of my time in university I did not think that I would be able to match to a dietetic internship. My undergraduate education was particularly challenging in the sciences and I was afraid I did not have the science GPA necessary to be admitted to an internship program. Finding and matching to a program that looked at the intern's abilities and experience level as a whole instead of just classifying them as numbers showed me that I could match to an internship, and, once I began the program rotations, that I was actually very capable in the field of dietetics. Although there were many challenges throughout the program, I am excited to be a graduate of Priority Nutrition Care.

Isabelle Gawel RDN University of California, Berkeley

I had a great experience and received a lot of support throughout my internship. I enjoyed choosing my own rotations, but still liked having weekly meetings. This internship has taught me so much about nutrition and practicing as an RDN. I have met so many people and received immense support from Mrs. Manion, the program coordinators, my small group, and my preceptors.

Jessica Zinn RDN Syracuse University

I believe the level of autonomy and freedom to network and build our reputation as professionals was largely in part to the PNCDDI structure as a program. The distance option gave me a large level of control, and I felt that I was able to have far more experiences, and built strong professional relationships with some of my colleagues who are in "traditional/non-distance" DIs. This internship allowed me to get one step closer to becoming a RD. Additionally, the internship allowed me to network and build professional connections on my own. This has helped me tremendously, and during interview, I have received more praise and respect from the interviewer because I was a Distance Intern. I learned a great deal from my preceptors, Program Director, and I will have fond memories of my experience. I also made life-long friends and networking colleagues from the individuals in my cohort.

Jody Herman RDN Drexel University

My preceptors were all extremely helpful and I am so grateful I got the opportunity to learn from them during this process. They all answered any questions I had about the process and I would not have the knowledge and experience I have now without them.

Julia Holz RDN Appalachian State University

I really liked this program! I liked the ability to do a distance program and I feel prepared to take the next steps into my future career. This internship gave me the opportunity to take steps to my calling and purpose to help others find freedom and healing through nutrition.

Kara Meyer RDN Virginia Tech

The convenience of not having to relocate. This internship gave me the ability to obtain my supervised practice hours while being a mother to three kids. Since I was able to find rotations in my local area and because the internship can be completed in 8 months, it was possible for me to achieve my goals without disrupting my life too much. I am glad a distance opportunity like this is available. I like that it increases the options for those aspiring to become an RDN.

Kari Rolle RDN Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY

It was a positive experience. The last step in becoming an R.D. learning about the different fields in dietetics.

Katherine Baird RDN The University of Tennessee, Knoxville

I greatly increased my professional communication skills through this internship. I could not agree more that choosing our own locations provided a sense of personal responsibility to those locations and preceptors. It also helped me to make numerous connections in the geographical area I would like to work. I also found it advantageous to hear the experiences from all interns from different areas in the country. I realized how some areas are more advanced than others in terms of nutrition. It meant the world to me truthfully. I first heard about dietetics in 2011 but it took until 2015 to act on my nutrition degree. I was so happy to hear about a distance internship as a possibility- especially one that both challenged and supported me. It was great to work in my home town community and see the growth that is occurring nutritionally. All of my preceptors (and family) was highly impressed with the requirements of the internship. I cannot thank everyone at PNCDDI enough! I am so grateful for this opportunity. Please let me know if there is anyway I can help out in the future!

Katherine Scharenbroch RDN University of Wisconsin Green Bay

Completing this internship gave me a sense of accomplishment and pride. This has been one of the most stressful and trying times for me personally as well as professionally. Being accepted to this internship has given me the ticket to the career I have been working towards for the past 7 years. This internship was literally a life-changer for me. It helped me to identify my weaknesses as well as find strengths in myself of which I did not even know existed. For instance, I was very organized and punctual with assignments/matters which concerned my preceptor and those sites, but found myself not being that way with assignments for the internship. This was a negative in my professionalism but because of this internship, it brought light to this issue and I therefore will be able to avoid such a problem with future employers. A strength that I found in myself is my ability to provide nutrition education and relate well to patients. I have a background in customer service but did not think that I would be as good as I was at teaching; I even had one of my preceptors ask if I had considered and would consider a position as an educator. Hearing that was very rewarding to me.

Kathleen Isberg RDN Bastyr University

This was a hard question to answer because I think this program is a great option for only a specific kind of person. Someone who is interested in a distance program and who is an independent, self-motivated learner. This internship means that I can now work doing what I love and making twice the amount of money I was before the internship. It means my family will be able to meet our financial goals sooner (paying off student loans, owning a home, etc). This internship was an opportunity for me to prove to myself that I can apply the knowledge I have right now, to help people right now. I am a cautious person and often feel like I do not know enough yet to really make a difference. I have had to get over that mind set to make it through this internship. I have had to counsel people, make handouts, right reports, give advice, make recommendations, etc. on the spot with the knowledge I have now (which is more than I realized) or what I can acquire and make a judgement on quickly. It has given me a new desire and confidence to apply my knowledge and not keep it to myself. People are hungry for nutrition information and I now feel ready to give it.

Kelly Herbert RDN University of Wisconsin Stevens Point

This internship was extremely organized and I felt supported throughout. This internship was the final step in my education towards becoming an RD. I loved the fact that I was able to build my own internship with rotations all within Western Massachusetts as well as work a full 40 hours/week, unlike that of many other internships in my area. I have a great amount of respect for both Mrs. Manion and Paula Reveliotis who are so caring about the interns as well as well-established business professionals. Thank you to the PNC team for everything. I hope to stay in touch and wish you all the best.

Lauren Gage RDN University of Massachusetts Amherst

It taught me how to be more independent, especially within the professional world. Walking into a new "job" every 4-6 weeks meant meeting new people and building new relationships, on my own and I loved it. This internship taught me how to work together with people, even when we're across the country from each other. Doing a distance program truly allowed me to make my own schedule for rotations and to spend more time learning and working in the areas of dietetics that I am most interested in. Thank you for everything!

Lauren Lyons RDN Saint Louis University

I would recommend this internship to others. This internship really fosters independence and personal decision-making, which is so important moving into the work-force. This is a huge accomplishment and will help me to better provide for my family. Also, I am just proud to finally be a member of this professional group. It has been an absolutely fantastic experience for me!

Martha Larkin Kelly RDN University of Georgia

This internship has prepared me to be a future RD. I feel that I grew a lot during this internship and gained an extraordinary amount of confidence. I was able to be independent but also reach out and receive help when I needed it. I am thankful to have gotten two amazing preceptors who are in this program and have fostered some pretty amazing relationships. I cannot wait to take what I’ve learned and be the best dietitian I can be. I am so excited for the future!

Mary Mageria RDN Simmons College

I would recommend this internship to other students because it is a challenge to get accepted into an internship and there are many students needing to get accepted. Getting one step closer to being a dietitian and being able to pursue my passion towards helping others obtain a healthy lifestyle.

Megan Zorich RDN University of Central Missouri

When it comes to distance programs, there are several factors that make PNCDDI stand out. For instance, I do not know of any distance programs that form groups for interns in similar geographic areas to interact and work with each other. In fact, many distance programs do not have enough interns in their class to provide that sort of thing. In addition, the main rotations in PNCDDI are 8 weeks long, which allows interns to have well-rounded experiences in each area. Other programs focus heavily on the clinical rotation and neglect other rotations. I felt like I was part of a special group, being that we were only the 6th class of an relatively new internship program. PNCDDI has to compete with other programs from well-established educational institutions or enormous food service companies, so it definitely feels like the program is an underdog. I always root for the underdogs, and even so, I feel just as prepared as any future dietitian should.

Nicholas Lee RDN Saint Louis University

I think a distance internship is great. It meant so much to me and I learned a lot the will help me in my future career.

Olivia Garcia RDN Queens College

I believe that distance internships may be more meticulous during the application process, however, there are a lot of perks. The intern is able to tailor their own experience, by choosing preceptors and sites. I am extremely grateful to have completed a dietetic internship with PNCDDI. The distance program provided me with the flexibility to focus on areas that I wanted to gain more experience in, as well as the opportunity to develop a network of professionals in my field.

Olivia Love RDN Central Washington University

The Internship offers flexibility in selecting your own rotation sites, communicates expectations clearly, and supports interns throughout the internship experience. Although you have the flexibility of a distance internship, you also feel connected to other interns through weekly meetings and group messaging. Because of the Internship, I will be able to achieve my goal of becoming an RD. Without the flexibility of a distance internship, this would not have been possible. I am extremely grateful for all the support I received, especially during the first rotation when I experienced a difficult family situation and had to take a short break from the internship.

Pamela Sherrill RDN University of Northern Colorado

I would recommend this internship because of the Business focus it provides. I really appreciated the business plan assignment, as I would love to open a business. I used this assignment to create the business plan I can hopefully use when starting my business. I also really appreciated the ability to choose my own rotations. I was able to choose from areas that are of interest to me, and it led me to get a job! Without this program, and the connections and contracts Mrs. Manion has in place, I would never have been able to work at Renfrew Center (which has always been my dream job). I learned a lot during this internship. I feel as though I have become more independent during the planning of my rotations. I did not get into any of my internship choices during the first round match, and when I came across this program, it seemed like it was meant to be from the start. I was really upset about not getting into my top choice, and after completing this program, I realize that everything happens for a reason! Thank you all so much!

Rebecca Alcosser RDN Syracuse University

I would (and already did) recommend this program because it is so unique in that you can live across the country but still feel like you're a part of the class. A lot of thought and planning goes in to coordinating everyone's sites, reviewing assignments, and being easily accessible to answer questions. I feel that my enrollment was valued by the internship which helped me enjoy being a part of the program. I have been working so hard to get to this point and can't believe I am finally here! Based on the experiences of people I know in other internships, I would not choose another program. I am proud to be a PNC graduate and am so very thankful that they helped me to reach my goal of becoming an RD.

Rose Urkevich RDN Johnson and Wales University in Providence, RI

I believe there is a place for everyone and for me, a distance program, though not want I would have preferred, fits my life at this time. Moving was not an option and working with professionals in my area was a great way to get connected.

Sandra Peirce RDN Seattle Pacific University

I would recommend the internship to other students as you have the opportunity to explore different sites/areas of nutrition unlike other internships. Many internships only have one or two sites for the entire internship, but with priority you are able to have up to 7 different sites and preceptors. Not only does this help you decide your interests, it helps with building your network. When I was accepted to the internship I did not know much about distance programs. All I knew was that I had to find my own preceptors/sites. I took a lot away from my internship experience. Not only have a made friends with future RDs that I would have never met otherwise, I have made strong personal connections with mentors. I know that these connections with my fellow interns and mentors will help me along the studying, job search process, and far in the future. Having various rotation sites helped me learn what areas I liked best and least. I found that I enjoyed certain parts of each area and could see myself working in different areas at different points in my life. Without doing this internship program I would not have known how much I enjoyed working with senior population. Before I started my internship, I had heard from several people who went through different internship programs that "it was the worst year of their life." I definitely disagree with this statement as I feel like I had mostly positive experiences that helped me grow as an individual during this internship. I met so many people I would have never met and had so many experiences that I do not think I would have had anywhere else.

Sarah Federoff RDN The University of Rhode Island

It was such a huge accomplishment for me. I never thought I would get to where I am right now and am so excited and proud of myself. Thank you for helping me achieve this!

Sarah Knox RDN The University of Akron

"Putting together your own rotation sites make this internship unique and personalized. You have the ability to learn and grow in areas that really interest you, network in that area, and potentially find jobs. I was offered two jobs at the end of my internship; one was where I completed my community rotation (Department of Education), and one where I completed my elective rotation. I don't believe I would have had the opportunity to really get to know my preceptors if I was just another intern cycling through with the larger programs in my state.This internship allowed me to achieve my dream of becoming a Registered Dietitian."

Dana Stapleton RDN Arizona State University

"I’m grateful to the internship process because it proved to me that I can function successfully as a professional, develop relationships, and pursue personal development."

Blake Bittle RDN West Chester University of Pennsylvania

"This internship was very rewarding in the fact that it pushed me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to see all that I am capable of on my own. Luckily, I had the help of the internship and my group when I needed it, but otherwise it gave me a sense of independence. Finishing the internship, makes me really excited about what is to come next. I feel really accomplished."

Rachael Charboneau RDN Illinois State University

"A distance internship is a great opportunity to build independence, organization, professionalism, and connections that will benefit you in your future career as a Registered Dietitian. It allows you to prioritize your career goals by choosing your own sites and gain additional experience with a six-week elective rotation. A distance program builds a strong work ethic and has allowed me opportunities I would not otherwise have. This internship was a challenging and rewarding program that helped me build the skills needed to excel as a Registered Dietitian. Obtaining my RD credential through a distance internship allowed me to make connections in various fields and spend enough time at each site to truly grasp what each job entails. This was a great benefit to me as I was able to build my internship around my experiences and focus on areas I was not as familiar with. Being able to live at home also afforded me the opportunity to build connections in locations where I plan to start my career."

Erin Daley RDN University of Connecticut

"It gave me the opportunity to solidify my career in dietetics by becoming eligible to take the RD exam."

Cahlan Dewey Horton RDN Mansfield University, Paul Smith’s College

"I get to fulfill my dreams."

Olivia DiPio RDN, LD Ohio University

"Throughout this internship I was able to make lasting relationships with my preceptors and other interns which developed my confidence and enjoyment for the field. This internship gave me the skills needed to provide efficient and adequate nutrition care to clients of all ages and backgrounds."

Hannah R Dubin RDN, LDN Framingham State University

"This internship served as my primary opportunity to pursue my desire for nutrition while I was pursuing the start of personal life at the same time. During my senior year of college, I married my husband, made plans to move to our hometown, and chose our first home. In order to proceed with my education and career goals, it was necessary for me to find a way to do so that would not hinder my husband and our life from continuing forward as well. The internship allowed me to base my educational opportunities in the city that I was set to move to, to spend time investing in nutrition and my marriage at the same time, and ultimately, to complete the final step to my RDN journey so I could enter into the workforce as a woman who can provide for her family and meet the nutritional needs of her clients/patients/patrons. I am so grateful for the structure of this internship and am forever appreciative that it let me enjoy the best of both worlds. It proved to me that work is not always hard, strenuous, and a hassle, but it can be beautifully integrated into your everyday life to simply make each day even more enjoyable."

Alisha Hail LD, RD Eastern Kentucky University

"This internship has allowed to me grow both personally and professionally in many ways. I am very proud and excited to continue my career as a Registered Dietitian."

Danielle Lemmer RD, LDN Pennsylvania State University

"The distance DI allows students to tailor the internship to their personal interests. I am passionate about Nutrition and Dietetics. I look forward to helping my patients and clients lead a healthier life with a decreased risk of developing chronic diseases. As a young woman, I see the importance of living a healthy lifestyle and how it effects quality of life during the latter years of life. I look forward to working with geriatrics and help them live their lives to the fullest."

Brooke Levine RDN New York University

"The directors and program coordinators are very helpful and understanding. It is nice to be able to stay at home and do your internship, instead of having to relocate."

James Matherly RDN West Virginia University

"The flexibility of being able to live at home and not move made this internship stick out to me when I was applying. I would recommend this internship to people who would like to live at home while completing their DI. This internship gave me the opportunity to pursue a career that I worked so hard for, for the past five years."

Molly Meehan RD, LDN Framingham State University

"I enjoyed the flexibility of choosing sites that were pertinent to my area of interest. The interactive experience of nutrition and a way for me to confirm the area of focus that interest me most."

Martha Paulina Parra RDN University of Houston

"I would recommend this internship because it is allows interns to stay in their own local area. This internship has realistic expectations for its interns and provides reliable accountability. This internship meant a lot to me. It was a blessing which confirmed my direction to become a Registered Dietitian. It also allowed me to network and build relationships/friendships with various people."

Elisa Njoo Lau RDN San Jose State University

"The internship was a huge goal for me personally. I was told at my university that internships would look past me and my resume and I really felt as if I achieved something in receiving a position and completing this internship. The internship was validation that dietetics is the career for me."

Holly Smidt RDN University of Maryland, College Park

"I would recommend PNC to other students looking for a distance internship. Without the option of a distance program I would not have been able to complete an internship needed to become an RD. As a single mom of two school aged children it was not possible for me to relocate for an internship. The option of finding my own rotation locations made it possible to complete the internship close to home. This internship meant completing the last big step in pursing my dreams of being an RDN. As a non-traditional student and having a settled life as a single mom there were many times I doubted I would be able to find a program that I would be able to fit into my life. This career choice for me is about helping other people put their health in their own hands and being able to complete the internship means I can have the career I have been wanting for so long and help others."

Brooke Smith RDN Kansas State University

"I was beginning to think that I was not going to get matched with an internship. I saw PNC was accepting second round applicants, so I just applied for fun and did not expect to actually get accepted. When I was offered a position, it was one of my happiest moments. I am extremely grateful for this internship; without it I would not be in this position today."

Hailey Spires RDN The University of Southern Mississippi

"Having the ability to complete 1200 hours in a shorter time frame than other internship programs was ideal. I also liked the distance aspect because it allowed me to work wherever I wanted or needed to. This internship was a privilege and I am grateful to have been given this opportunity to reach toward my goals of becoming an RD. It has also helped me to become more independent than I thought I could be and taught me self-discipline/control. My tendency to procrastinate has greatly improved."

Julia Villani RDN Adelphi University

"I would recommend this internship for many reasons. I liked being able to select my rotation locations based on my interests. I also liked being able to work independently in scheduling and completing my assignments. You can work at your own speed as long as you pay attention to due dates. Even with working on our own, we still had weekly interactions with our small groups and webinars where we could bounce ideas off each other and get support. To me, this internship was an important step forward. It is exciting knowing that I am getting so much closer to being in my career. This internship taught me not only a lot about what it is to be an RD, but also helped me with other skills such as time management and organization. I also made some lifelong friends through my small group. I feel confident in moving forward and believe that this internship has set me up for success."

Melinda Brazell-Lunsford RDN The University of Alabama

"I really enjoyed setting up my own rotations that were geared towards my interest. This internship meant an opportunity to expand my knowledge of the clinical field."

Maria Rodriguez RDN California State University, Los Angeles

"This Internship was the culmination of four years of hard work, dedication, and personal growth. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to go straight into an internship, and the internship has really showed me that yes, I will in fact be an amazing Dietitian. The internship was able to quell my final doubts about my own personal ability to perform as a Dietitian. Thank you so much!"

Hannah Schuler RDN California State University, Sacramento

I would recommend this internship because it is straight to the point and speeds you in 6 months to become Registration Eligible. The assignments are very useful, and I think for someone who has no experience within the profession will help them get the idea of what is expected. Personally, this internship experience can be explained with the word "supportive". I needed this internship more than it needed me, and grateful PNCDDI took a chance with me and I hope I have made everyone proud. Be on top of your A-game, read emails, forms, assignments 3-5x so you understand what is being expected. They are the main source of communication and most of the time your answer is in front of you. Breathe, each rotation will fly by.

Samantha Williamson State University of New York Plattsburgh

The Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND®) is the accrediting agency for education programs preparing students for careers as Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) or Nutrition and Dietetics Technicians, Registered. (NDTRs) Priority Nutrition Care's Distance Dietetics Internship Program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2190, Chicago, IL 60606-6995, (312) 899-0040 ext. 5400. https://www.eatrightpro.org/acend