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  • McQueary College of Health and Human Services

Dietetics student takes on new challenges overseas

August 12, 2024 by Avery E. Adkins

Kate Hayes hikes the mountains of Machu Picchu

From sharpening her Spanish language skills to volunteering and visiting Machu Picchu, Missouri State University junior Kate Hayes recently embarked on a transformative study abroad experience in Peru.  

This three-week trip was made possible by a study away scholarship from The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest, most selective and most prestigious all-discipline honor society. 

During her time in Peru, Hayes, a double major in nutrition and dietetics and Spanish, not only enriched her academic pursuits, but also immersed herself in the local culture. This adventure fostered personal growth and resilience, equipping her with a global perspective and a renewed passion for her studies.  

To learn more about study abroad opportunities, visit the office of education abroad.

Immersed in learning and cultural exploration   

Hayes seized the opportunity to enhance her language skills and explore Latin American culture firsthand. Based in Cusco, she took intensive Spanish language courses taught by native speakers. The small class size allowed Hayes to deepen her understanding of grammar and conversational fluency.   

“The classes were my favorite part, which sounds kind of nerdy, but it was different because everyone was there to learn and hungry to get all this new information,” said Hayes, who is from Raymore, Missouri. 

Beyond the classroom, she actively engaged with the local community through volunteer work. She initially taught English then transitioned to manual labor. This was a surprise that highlighted the dynamic nature of international experiences.   

Hayes embraced the experiences, recognizing them as opportunities for personal and cultural discovery.   

Seeing Machu Picchu in real life 

A highlight of Hayes’ adventure was the five-day trek to Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The trip included a strenuous yet exhilarating journey through the Andes Mountains. This experience offered breathtaking views and insights into Incan culture and spirituality.   

“We hiked the Salkantay Trek, which was a 50-mile hike from our starting point all the way to Machu Picchu,” Hayes said. “We even hiked through the Amazon rainforest, which was crazy to think about.” 

Personal growth and future goals   

Reflecting on her experience, Hayes noted personal growth in her overall confidence, Spanish language skills and cultural awareness.   

“The study abroad trip deepened my academic knowledge and fueled my passion for global engagement and cross-cultural understanding,” Hayes said.   

After she completes her bachelor’s degree, she wants to attend graduate school. In the future, she hopes to integrate her passion for nutrition and Spanish into a career path. She sees potential in being a translator, dietitian for a sports team or a role bridging health care and cultural exchange.   

Learn more about nutrition and dietetics

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Dietetics, Student Success

Dietetics student gives back

December 1, 2023 by Strategic Communication

People work at the Ozarks Food Harvest

KY3 recently featured Andrew Falk, exercise and movement science major, for his work at Ozarks Food Harvest (OFH).

Falk found OFH because he needed to fulfill the requirements in a dietetics class — a community engagement project that requires students to volunteer.

Watch the clip

The KY3 segment shows OFH prepping for the Thanksgiving season and Falk discusses his personal story; he’s found his volunteer efforts at OFH are a great way to give back and help “build a better community.”

“When I was a kid, we went through a hard time and had to go to pantries and stuff like that,” Falk said. “It feels like everything’s come full circle and it’s nice to give back.”

OFH serves over 270 different charities across 28 counties in the Ozarks, providing 1.5 to 2 million meals per month. They’re expected to spend an additional $500,000 on holiday meals this year.

Learn more about the exercise and movement science program

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Dietetics, McQueary College of Health and Human Services

Fun times at the Food and Nutrition Conference and Expo 2023 

October 27, 2023 by Strategic Communication

Attendees of the FNCE stand together.

The Food and Nutrition Conference and Expo (FNCE) is the largest conference focused on the latest research in the nutrition and dietetics field. 

Missouri State University nutrition and dietetics faculty members Dr. Sarah Murray, senior instructor and program director, and Jaime Gnau, clinical assistant professor, got to present at this year’s conference. 

Held in Denver, Colorado, from Oct. 7-10, the conference offered a variety of innovative technology and evidence-based research in the field of nutrition. Three MSU faculty and five undergraduate students attended the event. 

“Attending the annual FNCE is always invigorating! The conference is packed with cutting-edge information about what’s new in nutrition and dietetics,” Murray said. “It’s a great learning experience for all dietitians – no matter how long you have been in the profession.”  

About the event 

This annual event is hosted by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, h which is the largest professional organization of nutrition and dietetic professionals in the country.   

“Attending FNCE provided me with invaluable networking opportunities and access to latest trends in nutrition,” said Ashlyn Ooi, senior dietetics student.  

“FNCE offers a unique chance to connect with industry experts, gain insights into cutting-edge research and foster deeper understanding of the field, ultimately advancing my professional development in the world of nutrition and dietetics.” 

The expo showcases innovative food products that support health, good nutrition and offer a variety of alternatives for special dietary needs. 

Yun Ji Kim, senior dietetics student, enjoyed learning about plant-based alternatives at one of the many informative sessions.  

“This knowledge will help me recommend the proper plant-based milk alternatives to future clients and patients based on their individual needs,” Kim said. 

Presentations on relevant topics 

This year, nutrition and dietetics faculty presented their research during the poster presentation session of the conference: 

  • Murray presented her research in student leadership development. 
    • “Exploring How Nutrition and Dietetic Students Make Meaning of Their Educational Experiences and the Impact It Has on Their Leadership Development.” 
  • Gnau and Stephanie Urich, graduate student, presented research on perceived nutrition risks among low-income patient populations.  
    • “Exploring Connections Between Perceived and Actual Nutrition Risk Among Low-income, Uninsured Patients and Their Healthcare Providers.” 

Enjoying the conference 

At the conference, MSU students and alumni had the chance to meet up, taking the opportunity to snap a group picture in front of Denver’s famous “Blue Bear.” 

Students were amazed at how much more there is to learn about the profession outside of the classroom. Topics ranged from leadership, career development, public policy and innovations in clinical dietetics. 

“Attending FNCE was a great experience,” said Cassidy Fontinel, senior dietetics student. “It was a great opportunity for learning, networking and paving the path to my future as a dietitian.” 

Explore the nutrition and dietetics program

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Dietetics, Jaime Gnau, McQueary College of Health and Human Services, Sarah Murray, students

Congratulations to the MCHHS 3MT winners

November 3, 2022 by Jonah Rosen

Fall colors on campus on October 26, 2022. Kevin White/Missouri State University

MCHHS hosted the college Three Minute Thesis Competition (3MT) on Oct. 31.  

Students were prompted to research an issue that was occurring in their field of study, and then present to a panel of judges in three minutes or less.  

This year’s competition included:  

  • 9 presentations 
  • 5 departments 
  • 21 students  
  • 8 faculty advisors 

The results  

The top four presentations were: 

  • Breanne McLay and Cameron Bruso, School of Anesthesia, Two-Handed Mask Ventilation with Alternative Ventilatory Device. 
  • Sarah Waterman, nutrition and dietetics, Accessing SNAP Benefits at a Midwestern Public University. 
  • Cecelia Peine, Jesse La Fond and Tyler Boyer, occupational therapy, How OT’s Can Address Scamming Among Older Adults. 
  • Cody Haether, Zach Gaarder and Jordan Sandusky, School of Anesthesia, Advanced Airway Techniques. 

“I would like to say a huge thank you to the participants of the 2022 MCHHS 3MT Competition and to Dr. Monika Feeney for organizing the competition,” said Letitia White-Minnis, associate dean MCHHS.  

“I also want to congratulate our winners on their presentations.  It is challenging to summarize an entire research project into 3 minutes, and they each did so in an outstanding way.” 

Filed Under: MCHHS News Tagged With: Dietetics, MCHHS Spotlights, McQueary College of Health and Human Services, Occupational Therapy, School of Anesthesia

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