Hi, I am Kaylee! I grew up in Northern California and ventured to San Diego for college where I received my B.S in Foods and Nutrition. I am currently obtaining my Masters in Nutrition while simultaneously doing my dietetic internship with Hunter College in New York. One of my non-work goals is to move across the country for the first time to New York!. Another goal I have is to run a full marathon! I have run two half marathons and I am ready to take the plunge on the full 26.2 miles. For fun, I like to take my dog, Mosby, for walks or head to Bodega Bay and catch a sunset. If you don’t see me walking my dog then I am probably at home trying to recreate recipes of restaurant food so that anyone can make them “healthier at home.” A fun fact about me is my guilty pleasure TV show is Chicago fire.
Q & A with Kaylee
How did you become interested in the field of dietetics? Why do you want to be a dietician?
Over the past several years, I have realized that not only my health but the health of my family and loved ones, are all implicated by my fascination and growing passion for food and how food affects the body. Often people do not grasp the importance of good nutrition for wellbeing. My sister, at the young age of ten, was diagnosed with type one diabetes. This newly diagnosed condition felt very overwhelming. The hospital brought in a dietitian to train us the proper nutrition she will need with her medical condition. Understanding everything the dietitian was teaching, sparked my interest in nutrition. I knew from that moment on that I too wanted to be a dietitian. I hope to be able to connect with each of my clients on a level where I can not only provide diet assistance but an educational opportunity as well. I aspire to become a dietitian who is actively involved in my clients’ lives, helping them to become better each step of their journey.
What do you want to learn at The Sylvia Center?
What I want to learn from The Sylvia Center is to gain a better understanding of implementing nutrition education and how it is receptive in the younger population and gaining experience in supporting culinary based classes. I also want to learn how community-based programs have transitioned from in-person learning to online learning. I also want to see for myself how the community comes together over food and what food means to others.
What does food mean to you?
Food to me is an experience that is meant to be fun! Food is a means of interpersonal connection and an opportunity to learn more about others similarities, differences, and even cultures.
What message do you want to tell young people about healthy eating?
I believe all food is good food. Sometimes people classify food as “good” or “bad” and I want to help break this stereotype. I believe that all foods can be a part of good food for your diet and that health is not only measured by calories but also ingredients. I want to be the type of dietitian to help others eat whatever healthy means to them.
What is your favorite recipe to make?
My favorite recipe to make is teriyaki chicken! I love teriyaki chicken with rice, broccoli and carrots and served in a pineapple. (this picture below I made!!)
You can follow Kaylee on her Instagram @likeanutritionmajor
