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Frequently Asked Questions

How important is GPA?

It is important. Internship programs are evaluated by ACEND in part based on the % of IP graduates passing the RD exam on the first try. A strong academic background is a positive indicator of that a candidate might be able to do this. A candidate with a GPA < 3.0 is unlikely to be listed for the computer match.

What about GRE scores?

GRE scores are not mandatory to apply to the Internship. However, similar to the GPA, GRE scores are another indicator of test-taking ability.

What should I write about in my personal statement?

This is your best chance to tell us why our internship is right for you, and why we should select you for our program.

Read the description of our program before you start writing,

If you are applying to more than one internship, write a specific statement for each program.

This is your opportunity to pull together all of the information you are presenting to us to help us "see" you as part of this Dietetic Internship Program. We want to know, "Can this person DO this internship with the challenges that our interns typically face?" For example, we have many far-flung sites all over New York City, and interns have to get to these on their own via public transit. Our interns are also expected to take responsibility for things like registering with the volunteer offices at their sites, getting medical clearance, and generally being independent in the nuts and bolts of each rotation. The clients/patients at our rotation sites are highly varied, so a level of comfort in many different settings is a definite plus.

(Tip: Remember to proof-read, proof-read, PROOF-READ!! Typos and/or evidence that you are using a form-letter show that you are careless in your work. For example, there is NOTHING that is a bigger turn-off to a Selection Committee than an application that says "...and that is why the (name of some-other-program)  internship would be the perfect match for me.")

How important is work/volunteer experience?

It is important for two reasons:

1. It addresses the question of "Can s/he do what our interns do?"

And

2. It can support what you are saying in your personal statement.

What about reference letters?

These will ideally provide support for what you are saying in your statement. Therefore, it is more desirable to get such letters from people who know you well and speak of your unique qualifications for the internship than to get a more generic letter from a well-known professor whom you only had for a large lecture class.

I am not sure if I should try to be a Registered Dietitian. What is the process? What career options would be open to me as an RD?

Read about it here

What do you look for in an internship application?

See "Selection Process" under Admissions Information

What can I do to improve my chances of being accepted to your Dietetic Internship Program?

See "Selection Process" under Admissions Information

I applied to your internship and didn't get a match. What can I do to prevent this from happening again?

See "Selection Process" under Admissions Information

I have been out of school for a long time. How can I find out if my courses/degree will still count?

December 31, 1999 was the last postmark date for submitting registration eligibility applications using Plan IV minimum academic requirements. Students who completed Plan V or Didactic Program requirements would be eligible to apply for an internship.  

I have worked in nutrition after I finished my DPD coursework. Is there a way that I can get internship credit for this?

See "Prior Assessed Learning" under Curriculum

Does Hunter College Offer a Distance  Internship Option?

Yes, see Distance Dietetic Internship.

I am a foreign student/applicant. Do I have to have my foreign degrees/transcripts evaluated before I apply?

A WES evaluation will be needed by you at some point in process of becoming an RDN. if you have a foreign undergraduate/graduate degree - therefore it is a good and helpful document to have.

What kind of visa do I need to be enrolled in the DI?

See:  International Students page on Visa information

Can you help me to find housing for during the internship?

See: Hunter's Housing Information Page

Do you ever have an Open House for the internship?

Yes. See "Information Sessions (Open Houses) under Admissions Information

Can I come for a tour of your program?

Our internship program includes sites throughout New York City, none of which are owned by Hunter College. It is not possible to bring prospective interns to visit these sites.

 

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