A “Sparc”ling Opportunity to Promote The Dietetics Profession

Abstract

The Massachusetts Dietetic Association (MDA) State Professional Recruitment Coordinator (SPRC) Committee developed a unique dietetics mentoring program in coordination with the American Dietetic Association (ADA) Diversity and Association Membership Committees. The program was implemented in Boston at the 1997 Annual Meeting and Exhibition (AME) so that students could observe practitioners’ energy, enthusiasm and diversity and gain insight into the plethora of opportunities available within the career. Local school guidance counselors and teachers helped identify students with interests in health-related fields. MDA dietetics professionals representing different areas of practice experience, and diverse backgrounds were recruited as mentors. ADA Committee members provided orientation to the Association and the profession by premiering the new career video and print materials and sponsoring an AME student reception. The mentees included 28 students (4 boys and 24 girls) from 10 city high schools and 2 colleges; 43% were Caucasian, 39% Black, 11% Hispanic and 7% of unknown race/ethnicity. Of the 20 mentors participating (3 men and 17 women), 19 were registered dietitians and 1 a dietetic technician, registered; 80% were Caucasian, 15% black and 5% Asian. Based on the mentees’ and mentors’ evaluations, program expectations were “met” or “more than met” (n=14 and n=9, respectively). Furthermore, 86% of the students indicated they would like to “keep in contact with their mentor, MDA or ADA.” The program was formally brought to closure via a letter to students from ADA and MDA. Overall, the mentoring program met its goals and can serve as a model for future diverse student recruitment and mentoring programs.