Application for Admission
Program Length: 15 months (4-semesters: Summer, Spring, Fall, Summer)
Enrollment: 16 interns for the combined program, 4 interns for the verification statement only program
Admission Criteria for Degree-Requiring Students:
- Verification statement from an accredited DPD (completed within the last five years)
- Minimum overall GPA of 3.0 and DPD GPA of 3.2.
- Grade of "C" or better in all DPD required courses
- Be eligible for admission to Auburn University Graduate School
Admission Criteria for Verification Statement Only Students:
- Verification statement from an accredited DPD (completed within the last five years)
- Minimum overall GPA of 3.0 and DPD GPA of 3.2.
- Grade of "C" or better in all DPD required courses
- Evidence of completion of a graduate degree, with final degree conferred on an official transcript.
Application
To be eligible for consideration for admission to the Auburn University Dietetic Internship, the candidate will have a completed the DICAS (Dietetics Inclusive Centralized Application Service) application and/or be granted Early Entry* into the internship.
*Early Entry is only open to Auburn University DPD Students.
The application must include the following:
- Verification Statement from an accredited DPD program
(within the last 5 years)
- Resume -- should demonstrate evidence of leadership, paid or volunteer experience in dietetics or nutrition related experiences including time spent in a hospital setting
- E-Portfolio -- All applicants are required to submit an e-portfolio. This e-portfolio serves as a comprehensive digital showcase of your academic achievements, professional experiences, and personal growth. It is a vital component of your application.
- Transcripts from all colleges/universities attended (unofficial acceptable for initial review); official transcripts will be required by the Graduate School and by the Dietetic Internship after admission.
- Three letters of recommendation -- the letters must attest to the applicant's motivation and potential to succeed in the Dietetic Internship and Graduate School.
- Personal statement -- must demonstrate an ability to communicate well, both clearly and concisely, and must adequately address in less than 1000 words:
- Why the applicant wants to enter the dietetics profession
- What experiences the applicant has had that helped prepare him/her for a career in dietetics
- The applicant's short- and long-term goals
- The applicant's strengths and weaknesses or areas needing improvement
- Alignment of personal and professional goals with the focus of the internship and the graduate program
- Video Application -- As part of your application to the Auburn University Dietetic Internship Program, you are required to create a short video. This video is an opportunity for us to learn more about you beyond your written application. Follow the instructions below to ensure your video meets all requirements.
Video Content:
1. Introduction (30-60 seconds):
- Start with a brief introduction of yourself.
- State your name, current academic status, and where you are from.
2. Personal and Professional Background (1-2 minutes):
- Discuss your educational background and any relevant work or volunteer experiences.
- Highlight specific experiences that have prepared you for a dietetic internship.
3. Interest in Dietetics (1-2 minutes):
- Explain why you chose to pursue a career in dietetics.
- Discuss any specific areas of dietetics that particularly interest you and why.
4. Why Auburn University? (1-2 minutes):
- Explain why you are interested in the Dietetic Internship Program at Auburn University.
- Mention any specific aspects of the program that appeal to you and how they align with your career goals.
5. Personal Qualities and Strengths (1-2 minutes):
- Describe personal qualities and strengths that you possess which will contribute to your success as a dietetic intern and future dietitian.
- Provide examples to illustrate these qualities.
6. Closing (30-60 seconds):
- Summarize why you would be an excellent candidate for the Dietetic Internship Program.
- Thank the selection committee for considering your application.
Technical Specifications:
1. Length:
- The video should be between 5 and 8 minutes long.
2. Format:
- The video should be uploaded in an unlisted YouTube video.
3. Quality:
- Ensure the video is well lit and that your face is clearly visible.
- The audio should be clear and free of background noise.
4. Background:
- Choose a neutral and professional background.
- Ensure there are no distractions or interruptions during the recording.
Submission Instructions:
1. File Naming:
- Name your video file as follows: LastName_FirstName_AU_Dietetic_Internship_Video
2. Link Submission:
- Include the link to your video in your application materials in DICAS.
- Double-check that the link works and that the video is accessible before submitting your application.
Evaluation Criteria:
- Videos will be evaluated based on content, clarity, and professionalism.
- Points will be awarded for originality, so feel free to be creative and let your unique personality shine through.
Tips for Success:
- Practice what you want to say before recording to ensure clarity and confidence.
- Be genuine and let your personality shine through.
- Dress professionally as you would for an in-person interview.
- Review the video for any errors or issues before submission
Deadline:
- Ensure your video is submitted by the application deadline.
Early-Entry Timeline (AU students only):
Early-Entry—Internship seats will be reserved for students who have completed or are currently enrolled in the Auburn University DPD program. Early –Entry positions will be given based on a review of the applicant’s overall application score.
- August through October: Initiate DICAS application
- October 1: Application deadline for application through DICAS
- October 15: Student will be notified of acceptance
Regular Application Timeline:
- August through October: Initiate DICAS application
- October 15: Application deadline for application through DICAS
- November 1: Student will be notified of acceptance
NOTE:Students admitted to the Dietetic Internship MUST be admitted to the AU Graduate School, Department of Nutritional Sciences to access the Dietetic Internship.
Students must apply for the graduate degree through Auburn University by October 15, and not through DICAS.
NOTE: The Auburn University Dietetic Internship begins mid-May when the Summer semester begins.
CONTACT INFORMATION
If you have questions, please contact the Auburn University Dietetic Internship Director:
Kelsey Rushing, PhD, RDN, LD
102-F Poultry Science Building
260 Lem Morrison Drive, Auburn, AL 36849
O: 334-844-3429 | F: 334-844-7417 | E: krushing@auburn.edu
