Christina Armendariz, MS
2022 Mead Johnson Nutrition Scholarship
Completing a Dietetic Internship at The Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles Dietetic Internship
| “The financial burden placed upon dietetic interns can be heavy for those who have been financially independent up until their dietetic internship. Finding out I was a recipient of the Foundation’s Mead Johnson Nutrition Scholarship has allowed me to put less pressure on myself to work while I complete my supervised practice. I now have more space to become a better dietetic intern by using my free time to study and integrate information. If I was not a recipient of this scholarship my free time would be dedicated to working to pay off tuition. The Foundation is helping students of color break systemic barriers by providing financial support that continues to improve the diversity of dietetics.” |
How did you learn about the availability of the Foundation scholarship that you received?
I am a student member of The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics so I received the scholarship email. In addition, my DI director shared the email with my internship class.
What motivated you to apply for a Foundation Scholarship?
Knowing I was going to use my savings while having limited income during my supervised practice was my main motivator. Thinking of how to pay for an internship while making no money is a heavy burden. Applying for the scholarship made the most financial sense to me.
How will the scholarship funds help support your continued success within your educational program?
When I commit to something it is my goal to be outstanding at it. Having to worry less about financials has already allowed me to enjoy my supervised practice by being present. Having one less thing to worry about opens up room to challenge me to focus on mastering my skills as a dietetic intern.
What advice do you have for your colleagues about seeking out and applying for Foundation funding opportunities?
I think it's important not to get overwhelmed by scholarship applications. Starting as soon as possible will be key in successfully completing a scholarship application. In addition, being considerate to mentors when requesting a letter of recommendation is key! Most importantly having confidence that you deserve the scholarship you are applying for just as much as the next person will get you through the application.
Scholarship and Award Application and Timeline Information
All applications and timelines for Foundation funding opportunities are made available electronically within the Foundation’s application portal. Generally, the scholarship applications are available from mid- February to mid-April, most award and grant applications are available from December to February, and fellowship opportunities are posted as they become available.
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With Your Help, We Can Do Even More
Our Foundation is the only charitable organization dedicated exclusively to supporting nutrition and dietetics professionals by empowering them to help consumers live healthier lifestyles. Our Foundation does not receive any portion of member dues and is funded solely by donations. Please consider making a gift today to support our Make It a Million Scholarship Campaign that will help us to award one million dollars in scholarships annually to Academy members, students and dietetic interns at all levels of study.
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