Cecilia Busick
2022 Patsyjane O'Malley Memorial Scholarship
Completing a Future Education Model Graduate Program at Hunter College
| “This scholarship means a great deal to me – providing both financial and motivational support. Knowing this scholarship comes from the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetic Foundation is a huge boost of confidence that my hard work pursuing my MS in Nutrition Science will be well worth the effort when I can help improve the health of patients as a future RD. This scholarship will help alleviate some of the financial burden of pursuing this advanced degree by being put directly towards tuition fees and helping me cross the finish line of graduation in May 2023.” |
How did you learn about the availability of the Foundation scholarship that you received?
I am a proud student member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and I regularly receive newsletters for fantastic opportunities like this scholarship application. In addition, my program at Hunter College encouraged us to be on the lookout for scholarship opportunities from Academy Foundation, as well as the local dietetics chapters.
What motivated you to apply for a Foundation Scholarship?
After nearly 10 years of professional experience in the New York City food and beverage events industry, I returned to school in the summer of 2020 to change my career with the goal of ultimately becoming a Registered Dietitian. As I am a career changer, and I am entirely financially dependent on myself. I was very motivated to apply for this scholarship in the hopes that receiving financial assistance would provide me with the clarity and peace of mind I need to fully focus on my education, instead of worrying solely about unexpected costs.
How will the scholarship funds help support your continued success within your educational program?
This financial assistance grants me more security within myself, and therefore reinforces my motivation in pursuing my advanced degree. I like to reflect upon the patients I hope I am able to benefit in the future, from me achieving this goal in the present. I plan to pursue a career as a registered dietitian in a clinical setting and hope in the future to specialize as a CNSC (Certified Nutrition Support Clinician) and work in the neonatal intensive care unit. This scholarship allows me to redefine my vision and center my passion and professional focus.
What advice do you have for your colleagues about seeking out and applying for Foundation funding opportunities?
My mom’s favorite word of advice she gives to me and my siblings is to “seek”. There are always opportunities to be had if you look for them, and there are many things that make all of us unique, and different reasons that motivate every student entering the professional nutrition field. The effort you put into an application always shows, and the answer is always no unless you apply and try!
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.
To ensure you receive all of our Foundation news and announcements, including scholarship, award and grant announcements, subscribe to our Foundation’s weekly Kids Eat Right Monday Message and Foundation News.
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.
#FoundationRecipientProfiles