Successfully Attaining a Dietetic Internship Position in Ontario on the First Attempt: A Descriptive Survey

Abstract

We explored the characteristics of Ontario-based dietetic internship program applicants who were successful upon their first application attempt, and we made comparisons between those who were successful and unsuccessful on their first internship application attempt. A 32-item online survey was distributed to graduates from nutrition programs in Ontario and to members of the Dietitians of Canada Student Network, Toronto Home Economics Association, and Ontario Home Economists in Business. Data from a previous study examining the characteristics of unsuccessful internship applicants were obtained from the authors to compare the two groups. Respondents (n = 76) were mostly female (97%), 20-25 years of age (67%), and had a previous degree (46%). Compared with those who were unsuccessful on their first internship application attempt, those who were successful had a significantly higher mean cGPA (3.69 ± 0.39 vs. 3.35 ± 0.41), were more likely to have a prior degree (46% vs. 29%), spent more time preparing their internship application package, and perceived their internship application packages to be stronger. Despite some differences, most applicants met the minimum cGPA requirement outlined by internship programs in Ontario. More internship opportunities can help increase the diversity and human potential in the dietetic profession.