Sarah Koszyk, MA, RDN

FAMILY. FOOD. FIESTA.

for something nutrishus

I know Sarah's face from the cover of Ventures since she's the current Chair, and I think I perhaps first met her on a #NEDPG twitter chat. I too have only ever been an entrepreneurial dietitian and I'm glad we both bravely took the leap! Like other second career dietitians, I'm glad Sarah turned from fashion to food.

Why did you become a RD?

I had a previous career as an owner of a fashion company. I was happy with the money but wasn’t feeling fulfilled within the job and wanted to do something that would help people. I’ve always had a passion for food since I grew up in a household of food scientists. I researched job opportunities and came across dietetics: the perfect combination of food and helping others. I decided to take the plunge and go back to school to become a dietitian. The rest is history.

What area of dietetics do you work in?

I do private practice, consulting, and writing.

How would you explain what you do?

Like many other dietitians, I wear multiple hats from consulting with corporations to coaching weight management and sports nutrition clients (both adults and pediatrics) to writing for magazines and other publications including my own booksthat I author. I’m also currently Chair of Nutrition Entrepreneurs Dietetic Practice Group.

What are your ‘typical’ daily/weekly tasks?

Keeping up with social media, writing articles, coaching clients, networking, and making connections with sponsors. I also spend a lot of time doing things for Nutrition Entrepreneurs (NE) from writing articles, attending meetings, and assisting with board agendas. Being Chair of NE takes up a lot of time and it is very rewarding.

What has been your career path?

My career path has always been focused with an entrepreneurial drive. I was a previous business owner and planned on owning my own business after completing the dietetic internship. I jumped in feet first and never looked back at any other way. I’ve been very happy doing my own practice and growing throughout the years with new projects and endeavors. I have had many mentors along the way who helped guide me and show me that there are so many opportunities out there in our field.

What advanced education or special training do you have?

I have a Master’s and I’ve completed the pediatric weight management program. I’m currently in the process of getting LEAP certified.

In an ideal world, what does the industry look like 5 years from now?

Ideally, dietitians are recognized by the public as THE nutrition professionals. We are involved with all areas of nutrition and we are the go-to experts for the public and by the media. In addition, we are paid according to our worth and value. Right now, so many dietitians are underpaid for what they are doing and that’s a challenge to change what people think is a benefit and value.

What tip(s) would you give to our readers?

To your readers, the tip I would give is to always believe in yourself and go for your goals. Be smart about what you want to do. Take time to find your passion and figure out what job opportunities are out there that coincide with your passion. Start to network and meet people in that area because the more people you know, the easier time you will have at getting your foot in the door.

More about Sarah:

Website: Sarah Koszyk

Blog: Family. Food. Fiesta.

Twitter: @SarahKoszykRD

Facebook: Family. Food. Fiesta.

Instagram: SarahKoszyk

YouTube: SarahKoszyk

Thanks Sarah!