Brianna Cochlin
University of Houston Distance Dietetic Internship, February 2022
Where did you grow up? I grew up in La Crosse, WI.
Why did you choose to pursue this degree? I love chemistry and math, so I had originally chosen to study chemical engineering. However, I realized that I really enjoyed working with and teaching people, which I wouldn’t get to do as an engineer. In dietetics, I can use my chemistry knowledge to help people understand how food affects their bodies and make decisions about their eating habits.
What has surprised you about nutrition and dietetics? Once I got into my higher-level dietetics classes, I was surprised to find out how much dietitians use counseling and goal setting skills. A strong base of nutrition knowledge is necessary, but a large and important part of nutrition counseling is helping the client to feel motivated to change and to make achievable and sustainable goals. I never thought that I would take a class all about counseling and education in dietetics!
What career path are you considering? I am interested in working in either sports or clinical dietetics.
How has your MAND student membership benefitted you? Through my MAND student membership, I am able to stay updated with current nutrition-related research and policy issues that impact both myself and my future clients.
What other interests or hobbies do you have? I love spending time outside doing just about anything; hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, camping, and gardening are some of my favorite hobbies.
Please share your Instagram handle (and any other social media handles that you would like us to share): @briannacochlin
About MAND
Minnesota Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (MAND) is an affiliate of the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics. We are the largest professional organization of nutrition health professionals in Minnesota, dedicated to optimizing Minnesotans' health through food and nutrition.