Alohi Lilly is well on her way to fulfilling her dream of becoming a registered dietitian.
She graduates with her Bachelor of Science degree in nutrition – dietetics option in June and starts OHSU’s Master of Science in human nutrition and dietetic internship program this fall.
What inspired you to pursue the dietetics program at Oregon State?
I knew I wanted to work in nutrition since I was in high school.
There wasn’t a particular person who inspired me, but I saw issues around me and wanted to help. I also want to educate people on how to achieve their goals healthily!
What are you most proud of from your time in the CPHHS?
I am most proud of completing my classwork while managing my life outside of athletics.
I work around 20 hours a week during school and also have a dog at home, both of which take up a lot of my time. In short, I would say I’m most proud of my time management skills as I work toward becoming a registered dietitian.
Did you receive any scholarships or assistance during your time here?
Yes. I am grateful to have received the following scholarships: 2021 Helen McDowell Scholarship, 2021 June E. & G. Truxton Ringe Scholarship, 2022 Margaret Dowell-Gravatt, M.D. Scholarship and the 2023 Oregon Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Outstanding Student Award.
The 2023 Outstanding Student Award from the Oregon Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recognizes emerging leadership potential in the field of dietetics through academic success and achievements in campus and dietetic-related professional organization activities, work (paid and/or volunteer) experience and planned professional goals. Alohi will be recognized in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Can you tell me more about working in sports nutrition?
I worked in sports nutrition at the University of Oregon for about a year and a half, then transferred to Oregon State University and became a sports nutrition manager shortly after arrival.
We primarily work with football as they have the largest budget, but we work with all sports with a heavier emphasis on those actively in season.
I manage and train about 10 volunteers each term, and have also worked with multiple dietetic interns as well.
My job mostly consists of managing all of our fueling stations, volunteers/interns, and ordering any necessary products for our teams.
What are the most memorable lessons you’ve learned as a student?
Prioritize your mental health and well-being.
Sometimes you can get overwhelmed with everything, especially during the peak of the term when it feels like you’re being swallowed by coursework.
Be sure to plan ahead and remember that it doesn’t last forever. Each completed assignment is just one step closer to your goal.
Take advantage of all the resources and education available to you!
What will you miss the most about the CPHHS, OSU or Corvallis?
The people!!
What’s next in your journey to become a registered dietitian?
I committed to OHSU’s Master of Science in human nutrition and dietetic internship program this fall this September!
I am moving to the Portland area this summer and hope to receive a position through the university or within the nutrition field outside of OHSU.
I am most excited to gain further experience in maternal and neonatal nutrition during my time at OHSU as they have a really good women’s health program!
What does health and well-being mean to you?
Health and well-being to me truly come down to your quality of life.
Are you happy? Are you getting enough sleep, nourishment, and a feeling of fulfillment? Do you have a good support system around you and have healthy relationships in your life?
All of these questions come to mind when I think of health and well-being.
It’s less about restricting and more about balance, moderation and listening to your body, and loving it each and every day!
Do you recommend a specific club? Which one and why?
The Nutrition and Dietetics Club is perfect for dietetics students to make connections with those involved in nutrition all throughout the university and the state of Oregon!
Do you have any advice for incoming students?
Live in the moment! There will be times when you’re going to be overwhelmed, but you will want to remember the memories you’ve accumulated over the years.
With that said it’s truly all about balance. Prioritize your academics and your mental health.
If you are passionate about something, get connected with people in that community!
Throughout my college years, I worked four years in sports nutrition and have also worked in research. If I never had these roles and opportunities, I wouldn’t be where I am today!