Regina Smalls BA, BS
Jessie C. Obert Memorial Scholarship
Completing a Future Education Model Graduate Program at Sodexo-University of Rhode Island
| “The Foundation scholarship provides a way for those continuing their education to find and obtain funding. While many other foundations provide funding for undergraduate students, the Foundation has been very thoughtful in providing resources for graduate students and for that I am grateful. Receiving this scholarship has relieved some of the burden of the cost of continuing education as I continue toward the path of becoming a Registered Dietitian. The dietetics program is a costly process and receiving this scholarship has confirmed to me that the Foundation is here to support the next generation of dietitians, and I am on the right track in fulfilling my goals. The money that I receive from the scholarship will be directly used to help cover the cost of my tuition for the Future Education Model through Sodexo-University of Rhode Island.” |
How did you learn about the availability of the Foundation scholarship that you received?
I learned about the scholarship through researching the Foundation’s website and decided to apply from there.
What motivated you to apply for a Foundation Scholarship?
I was motivated to apply when one of my professors told us during a lecture that she was fortunate enough to receive a scholarship from the Foundation for her Doctoral Degree. She encouraged us to look for these opportunities because she did not expect to receive one herself. After hearing her story, I immediately knew that I needed to apply. So that's exactly what I did. I knew that I was on my way to receiving two bachelor's degrees and that funding was scarce. I had to try my luck and all the opportunities I could, and I am glad that I did.
How will the scholarship funds help support your continued success within your educational program?
I have been working hard to save up for the cost of the internship over the summer but with the exorbitant costs of tuition, my summer job hasn’t been enough. Receiving this scholarship has now helped me complete the cost of the internship. I am now able to begin my internship with peace of mind that my internship is fully covered financially. I can now work fewer hours and focus my time on preparing and soaking in everything I can during my rotations. Knowing that I was chosen to receive this scholarship shows me that the Foundation sees my value in this field currently and in the future. Knowing this gives me the motivation to work my hardest to successfully complete the internship and graduate program.
What advice do you have for your colleagues about seeking out and applying for Foundation funding opportunities?
For anyone looking to apply for Foundation opportunities, don't count yourself out! Make sure you get involved on campus and look for volunteer or job opportunities that complement your journey as a Dietetics professional. This is the second scholarship I have received in my career so far. Look at the opportunities provided and APPLY APPLY APPLY!
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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