Top 20 Dietitian Interview Questions and Answers for 2022
Do your research about the program
Im assuming if youre reading this that you stumbled upon it while searching everything the internet has to offer on dietetic internship interviews. Good, youre on the right track.
You wouldnt believe the amount of students Ive come across that went through 3+ years of schooling to become a dietitian and didnt realize they also had to do an internship after graduating.
Dont be that person. Research everything you can as early as possible.
Your research should be focused on what to expect from the interview at each program. Heres are three ways to get more information:
The point is to collect as much information as you can about what to expect: the questions, the vibe, the director, etc.
Dont be afraid to cold call (well, cold email) current or past interns — I did and I was given some great tips.
However, keep in mind that interns are generally not allowed to tell you what questions were asked (some might, but most programs insist you keep tight so everyone has a fair chance).
My experience reaching out to current and former interns
A former intern gave me great advice about my internships general interview style and it was a tremendous help when I was faced with a panel of interviewers.
If I hadnt asked then my anxiety would have skyrocketed when I answered the phone and was surprised to be talking to three interviewers instead of just the director.
But I knew the MO going in, which helped to alleviate nerves (a little).
Compile a list of questions and practice, practice, practice
Probably the most important thing you can do while youre waiting for interviews is to practice answering interview questions.
Yes, you wont know exactly what youll be asked, but if you practice answering questions before your actual interview then youll be more likely to form a coherent and complete answer on interview day.
Heres how I practiced answering dietetic internship interview questions:
While you cant know exactly what questions will be answered, here are a few general styles of dietetic internship practice questions that Ive encountered to include on your practice list:
If youre not sure how to answer a question, then practice forming your answer from this general format, by All Access Dietetics:
❓ What if you dont know the answer to an interview question? If you dont know an answer, say so. Its better to say, “Im not sure of the answer to that question, but to find out I would….” than to say, “Im not sure, hehe.” Show a bit of your personality and why you would be a great addition to their next intern class.
Practice your elevator pitch every morning in the mirror
The dreaded first interview question can been the scariest and most unnerving. Its your first interaction with the dietetic internship program director and is the first ice breaker.
The first question will most likely be something very open ended and vague, like “Tell me a little about yourself”. Practicing your about me 30 second pitch will prevent you from fumbling your words, help you hone in on your message, and provide a polished answer.
And say it out loud! Its one thing to think through the words then it is to actually verbalize them. The first few times you practice out loud in the mirror will be awkward but it will build confidence, reduce the likes, ums, and hums, and give you time to work on your perfect opening statement.
⚕️ Know your interview day game plan
When the interview requests start rolling in, its important to have a plan for where and how you will conduct the interview. Below are tips based on type of interview (in no particular order), based on my experience and the experiences of my fellow nutrition students when we were applying.
FAQ
What are the 10 most common internship interview questions and answers?
What questions should I ask dietetic internship directors?
- Tell me about yourself. …
- Why are you interested in this internship? …
- What attracted you to our company? …
- What skills can you bring to the company? …
- Do you work better alone or with a team? …
- How would others describe you?
