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Victoria Vasquez ’19

Posted in: Spotlights

Headshot photograph of Victoria Vasquez

BS Nutrition and Food Science, Concentration: Dietetics
Graduation Date: May 2019

Why did you choose this field of study?  Why did you choose the program at Montclair State University?

I chose to study nutrition after learning that I have a genetic mutation that inhibits part of my absorption of B vitamins. Although this mutation could result in long-term health problems, adjusting my nutrition could prevent these harmful effects from occurring. I realized that food and nutrition play an integral role in health, especially in the prevention of disease, and wanted to help others realize their unique nutritional needs, as well. I chose to study at Montclair State because of the reputable dietetics program and its ability to prepare me for a successful career as a dietitian.

What were the best parts of your program?

The best part about my program was the professors and faculty. They took the time to get to know their students, and I developed strong professional relationships with many of them. They put so much effort into sharing their passions with me and helped me develop mine in the process. They saw a potential in me that I did not, and pushed me to discover new limits for myself. I share many of my accomplishments with my professors because of the paths they helped me forge and the success they helped me achieve.

What was your favorite class or experience in the program, and why was that so important to you?

My favorite class was Applications of Medical Nutrition Therapy. This class allowed me to pull together all my knowledge from previous courses to prepare case studies and nutritional interventions for different nutritional problems. This class allowed me to see what a day in the life of a dietitian actually feels like and excited me more than ever about my future career!

Please tell us about what you are currently doing and what your plans are.

I will be starting my dietetic internship at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota in October 2019. After the completion of my internship, I plan on becoming a registered dietitian and working in pediatric clinical settings with children with metabolic diseases and inborn errors of metabolism.