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New group of dietetic interns welcomed by Kelley Martin Director, Dietetic Internship Much like medical residency placement, dietetic interns and internship programs undergo a formal computerized matching process to determine intern selection.   After reviewing 80 written applications (which is a program record), and scheduling 30 applicants for personal interviews, all eight spots were successfully filled with many highest ranked preferences. This year, applicants graduated from accredited baccalaureate programs in nutritional sciences throughout the country, from Michigan State to Louisiana State to Syracuse University. Of the 250-plus accredited dietetic internship programs in the country, each program exercises a different application and selection process.   Interns standing from left are Sarah Haan, Katy Underwood, Kristen Gradney and Ashleigh Ricevuto. Seated from left are Catherine Grych, Kristin McDaniel, Stephanie Ditmer and Amanda Behring. At MUSC, candidates’ college GPA scores, any work/volunteer experience in dietetics, and letters of recommendation are especially considered. Interns also are elevated for cultural diversity, leadership ability, and good communication skills. This 12th class officially began its nine-and-a-half month supervised practice Aug. 6.     Successful completion of this supervised practical internship, coupled with previously earned bachelor of science degrees, will qualify these students for the registered dietitian (RD) exam and entry-level practice. Graduates of MUSC’s internship program have a 98 percent first-time RD exam pass rate. Clinical dietitians can be distinguished by their brown scrubs. Kristin McDaniel graduated with a Bachelor of Science in nutrition (BSN) from Mississippi State University. She is currently working as a research assistant for a large nutrition grant involving residents of the Mississippi Delta. She was the recipient of several scholarships, served as an officer of her student dietetic association, and was selected to be a member of a dairy judging team. She fell in love with Charleston several years ago on a mission trip. She is married and is interested in pediatrics. Kristen “Kris” Gradney is a BSN graduate from Louisiana State University where she was a recipient of the Black Caucasus Award for outstanding achievement. Having received her first degree in sociology and worked in that field, Gradney brings experience and commitment in her choice to switch professions and pursue nutrition and dietetics. She has worked in the Women, Infants, Children (WIC) supplemental food program, and at a Women’s Center for Wellness. Gradney is married, and has worked with people of many different cultures and educational backgrounds. Kathryn “Katy” Underwood graduated from Samford University in Alabama with a BSN. She studied in Paris, served as an officer for her Student Dietetic Association, and was a Step-Sing participant for three years. She has worked for her university’s wellness program, for a food service management company, and at an assisted living facility. Catherine “Cat” Grych is a BSN graduate with a minor in sociology from the University of West Virginia. She received several scholarships and served as vice president and president of her student dietetic association. She recently passed the certified personal trainer exam, and has a great deal of experience in WIC and with the West Virginia Extension Service. Amanda Behring graduated from Michigan State University with a BSN. She brings experience in food service and hospitality, as well as several volunteer activities at a local food bank, a retirement community and a hospital setting. She studied  in Montpellier, France, and served as a member of her student dietetic association. Stephanie Ditmer graduated with a BSN from the University of Auburn. Switching from a pre-med major, Ditmer received several academic and research scholarships and awards. She also was recognized as an outstanding student in math and science her freshman year. Ditmer served as an officer of her student dietetic association and for a Christian fellowship committee. Sarah Haan received her BSN from Michigan State University. She plans to learn Spanish, was active with her campus Respecting and Understanding Body Image program, and coordinated health fairs. Haan is a resident assistant, a 4-H program leader, and a food service student intern. She has worked in a research laboratory, at a summer camp, and as a volunteer at a local hospital. Her interests include public policy and culinary arts. Ashleigh Ricevuto graduated with a BSN with a minor in marketing from Syracuse University. She served  as a student editor for SU’s on-campus magazine, worked as a mentor resident advisor, and as a student ambassador for her college. She has received awards for her public service, is president of her student Dietetic Association, and is a student representative to the Central NY Dietetic Association.     Friday, Sept. 7, 2007 Catalyst Online is published weekly, updated as needed and improved from time to time by the MUSC Office of Public Relations for the faculty, employees and students of the Medical University of South Carolina. Catalyst Online editor, Kim Draughn, can be reached at 792-4107 or by email, catalyst@musc.edu. Editorial copy can be submitted to Catalyst Online and to The Catalyst in print by fax, 792-6723, or by email to catalyst@musc.edu. To place an ad in The Catalyst hardcopy, call Island Publications at 849-1778, ext. 201.