Anna Frahm

Degree:    Bachelor of Science
Major:      Nutrition                     

Additional education undertaken after graduation:
    -Completed Coordinated Program in Dietetics
    -Dietetic internship at North Memorial Medical Center, Minneapolis

Years in the Field:   2
Current Job Title:    Clinical Dietitian
Organization:           St. Mary's Medical Center—Duluth, MN

How did you find this job?
I was notified about the opening in an email from a professor.

Please describe your job:
As a clinical dietitian, I attend patient care rounds and complete nutrition assessments, tube feedings, parenteral IV feeding assessments and diet educations. The majority of my time is spent one-on-one with patients. I also update education material, conduct pulmonary rehab nutrition assessments and classes.   

What from your undergraduate educational experience was most helpful in preparing you for this career?
    -Medical nutrition therapy courses (especially for clinical nutrition)
    -A solid science background
    -My dietetic internship

What is the biggest misconception about this occupation or field?
The biggest misconception is that dietitians work in the kitchen—that could not be farther from the truth!  We spend a lot of time educating patients about the connection between diet and chronic disease. It is a very fast-paced career, and I am amazed at how much I learn every day being in the hospital. I did not anticipate enjoying my job as much as I do. I get to interact with all disciplines in the hospital (nurses, doctors, speech therapists, pharmacists, etc.).

What advice do you have for current students?
Be well rounded:  do well in school but also volunteer, intern, and job shadow if possible. Get involved in organizations, but remember to keep a balance. I went abroad for a few weeks one May term, and found that to be an incredibly valuable experience.