Christina Huynh
Commission on Dietetic Registration Diversity Scholarship
Completing a Future Education Model Graduate Program at The University of the Pacific
“I am grateful for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation's support on my journey to become a Registered Dietitian. Receiving this scholarship is a direct validation of my presence as a first-generation, Asian-American student in the field of dietetics. This scholarship provides the financial means and allows me to be one step closer to delivering culturally-responsive care to my community!” |
How did you learn about the availability of the Foundation scholarship that you received?
I understood the financial means that came with advancing my education. However, I also recognized the value that investing in my education would have by equipping me with the skills I needed to be a successful clinician. I knew I would have to seek out scholarships and grants to support my graduate degree. I learned about the Foundation scholarship through my Program Director who was supportive of our cohort's success.
What motivated you to apply for a Foundation Scholarship?
I did not graduate with a DPD from my undergraduate program. As a result, I sought out Future Education Model programs that would support my goal to become a Registered Dietitian by filling me in with the DPD coursework. The program that fit my timeline and goals was out of state and came with a significant financial expense. I was so thankful for the acceptance and all the support I received from my family, friends and the program, however, I could not ignore the financial aspect of my graduate degree and the cost of relocating. I applied to the Foundation Scholarship as receiving it would alleviate my stress regarding the financial investment that I took on to move out of the state, travel to rotations and support myself in California.
How will the scholarship funds help support your continued success within your educational program?
This scholarship validates my presence in the field of dietetics as a first-generation, woman of color. This support not only provides financial assistance but is a concrete recognition of my academic and personal achievements so far. Communities of color are disproportionately impacted by nutrition-related health conditions. Receiving this scholarship empowers me to continue my academic journey to study the best methods to deliver culturally-responsive nutrition counseling. I am excited to learn from those in the dietetics field and receiving this scholarship will open up networking opportunities with scholarship recipients and future colleagues in the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
What advice do you have for your colleagues about seeking out and applying for Foundation funding opportunities?
I would always encourage colleagues to apply for Foundation scholarships. Not only is it the Foundation's direct support and acknowledgement of your achievements, it opens up an opportunity for networking with other scholarship recipients. Applying is free and you never know what the result may bring you.
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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