What is your role at UP Health System?

I am a registered dietitian for UP Health System – Portage in the inpatient, outpatient and community settings. 

What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?

I love learning and helping people through difficult times in their lives. I love how nutrition plays such a vital role in healing, and how recommendations are unique to everyone.

What’s a typical day like for you? What is it like working in this field?

I see patients admitted upstairs with acute conditions and people in the outpatient setting for a variety of reasons. Every day, I am learning from patients and their experiences. Nutrition is very personal, so I have to delicately balance the medical, social, financial, and emotional aspects of a person’s life. I provide a lot of education on a variety of topics. I have to be familiar with the latest nutrition trends and evidence-based practices.

How long have you been employed here? Have you always been in the same position?

I started shadowing Taylor and Shana, our other RDNs, as early as 2019. In 2023, I was a summer intern with the dietitians. I started working as a Dietetic Technician in Fall 2024 and began as a Registered Dietitian in March 2025.

What are some of the big changes you have experienced in this position?

I was recently added to our team of diabetes educators as part of our ADA-accredited Diabetes Self-Management and Education program.

What are some of your interests outside of work? What is your favorite local gem?

This sounds very cliché, but it is so meaningful to work in this community. I was born and raised here. It is special to recognize patients, connect over our favorite local foods, and help improve their lives. I am honored to serve this community alongside my coworkers.