The importance of joining the academy of nutrition & dietetics, and why you should take advantage of dpg's and mig's - by kristina todini (a former sfsu dietetics student)

As dietetic student, we use a lot of acronyms for our local and national associations: AND, CAND, and BADA are just a few we become acquainted with upon entering the dietetics programs—but what about DPGs and MIGs? Specifically, what are they and how can they help you in your path to becoming an RD?

Dietetics Practice Groups (DPGs) and Member Interest Groups (MIGs) are optional subgroups within the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics that are focused on specific practice and interest areas of nutrition. There are over 23 DPGs and 10 MIGs, and annual memberships range from $10-$30 for students. Groups such as Sports, Cardiovascular, & Wellness Nutrition (SCAN) focus on interests such as sports nutrition and disordered eating,  while Onocology Nutrition and  Pediatric Nutrition focus on specific areas of care. Others such as Nutrition Entrepreneurs (NE) and Dietitians in Business & Communication (DBC) focus on areas of business and professionalism within the field. There are also many culturally specific MIGs, such as Chinese Americans in Dietetics and Nutrition and the National Organization of Men in Nutrition. No matter what your interest in the dietetics field, there is a group for you!

Membership to a DPG or MIG can offer a variety of opportunities to further involvement in your interest area. Every group shares events and opportunities specifically to its members, such as social media chats, networking events, and job postings. Many DPGs/MIGs offer scholarships to students for internships and conferences. In fact, in my time as a student member with SCAN I have been able to become a regular contributor to their quarterly student newsletter and also received a $500 scholarship for my dietetic internship! Student memberships to DPGs and MIGs can be a great way to explore your interest in the field of dietetics while making great future connections!

You can check out a list of available DPGs and MIGs at eatrightpro.org  under ‘Groups’ or go directly to the group website, such as scandpg.org! Check out more information about dietetics and travel at my blog, NutritionTravelAdventure.com, or connect with me on Twitter at @kristinatodini.

- Kristina Todini

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