IBD Dietitian Apprenticeship

I feel extremely thankful that I was offered an opportunity to participate in the IBD Dietitian Apprenticeship. I believe this program is truly one of its kind. The apprenticeship was organized very thoughtfully, providing me with the information, skills, as well as resources to succeed as a practitioner. I enjoyed learning about IBD while observing the excellent adult and pediatric gastroenterologists during the program’s first month. This experience set the stage for my second month shadowing expert IBD dietitians because it allowed me to understand the rationale behind their evidence-based, individualized recommendations. The remainder of this program allows ample time for practicing and refining my skillset, so I am very confident that I will transfer the invaluable knowledge I have gained to my future patients. One of my favorite aspects is the variety of experiences offered. This includes training in the motility as well as pediatric clinics in addition to observing procedures such as colorectal surgeries and colonoscopies. I am also leading a research project, journal club, and multiple professional presentations. I look forward to advancing the field, helping my patients live their best lives, and continuing the relationships that I fostered at this fantastic institution."

I appreciate how the RD Apprenticeship is set up to allow me the opportunity to grow professionally with support - both in clinical care and research.

I recently completed the first part of the apprenticeship which is to shadow all members of the multidisciplinary team in both adult and pediatric IBD clinics. I was able to see how the latest research is translated to best practices and therapies offered, and how dietary therapies are well valued and frequently offered in both inpatient and outpatient settings. It was empowering for me to see the collaboration between care team members every day, and how that is required to be able to provide high levels of support to patients. It allowed me to see first-hand how dietary therapies can be successful with the support of IBD dietitians and providers.

IBD patients are always wanting to know more about dietary therapies in IBD and are looking for specialized support. My goal is to be part of a multidisciplinary IBD team, providing specialized IBD nutrition care and further IBD nutrition research especially for culturally diverse communities."

I am thankful this Apprenticeship exists for dietitians who want to focus in IBD nutrition. I am leaving with invaluable new skills, and I’ll miss the IBD team! I plan to implement strong IBD nutrition programs alongside people who are patient-focused, and I look forward to mentoring other IBD RDs."

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work alongside leading professionals in the field. I have learned so much about IBD from shadowing the dietitians and physicians in clinical practice, as well as getting involved in research. Additionally, I have been able to apply the training and education I have received through seeing patients and providing care in the clinic. The apprenticeship is an unmatched opportunity to grow my professional skills and knowledge while practicing under the mentorship of accomplished, seasoned providers. I will take the expertise I have gained from this position and put it into practice when providing specialized nutrition therapy for IBD and GI patients in the future. I hope to work in an interdisciplinary setting because I see the value in the collaborative, holistic approach to patient care provided at Cedars. I want to thank the staff and the IBD team for dedicating the time to teaching me and welcoming me with open arms.