Training for Race Day

Race Day has finally arrived, or should I say “Match Day”, in this case. After several months of training and preparation, everything I have done up to this point is now in God’s hands. After a restless night of sleep, I wake up anxious to begin a new journey in this marathon called “life”. Finally, only 5 minutes till race time and everyone begins to shuffle forward. The gun is fired. At first the pace is slow and steady, but that’s OK. After all, 26.2 miles is a long way; no need to worry now. The goal is to finish the last half stronger and faster than the first.
The first third of my marathon corresponds to my experience at Benedictine College. Benedictine was a challenge for me. I finished my first semester feeling discouraged and unsure if I had made the right decision. I gave it another chance and pressed on second semester, but I still felt like Benedictine was not meant for me.
The second third of the race I chose a different plan of action. I transferred to Johnson County Community College and began to find a rhythm. My grades improved a great deal and things began to fall into place. I had found my pace. At this point, I was certain I wanted to pursue a degree in dietetics. I want to be in the dietetics profession because I have a passion for helping others achieve their optimal health. This passion has stemmed from being an athlete and also seeing the health struggles of loved ones knowing if they had received the proper education; their lives could have been improved.
The last third of the marathon I set-off on my final endeavor at Northwest Missouri State University. As time went on, I began to feel the effect of all the miles I had run and began to face more challenges along the way. The support and encoura...

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...acurricular activities and having classes to focus on, it is easy to overcommit. I have learned that saying no upfront can be beneficial to all involved allowing me to give my full focus to the most important things and giving 100%. Over the last year, I have realized how excited I am to give my undivided attention and focus on my career in dietetics.
I know that the internship matching process is highly competitive and complex. However, I have the attitude and enthusiasm needed to excel in this internship. I believe that positivity and an open mind are essential to success in life. I will NOT give up and I will deliver high quality work. I look forward to my future in dietetics with a great desire to continue to learn on the level required by the University of Minnesota and strong commitment to be successful.

In health,
Amanda Cushing