Courtney Klema is a 2016 IFMA Education Foundation scholarship recipient. She attends Kansas State University and is majoring in Dietetics and Nutrition & Health. Find out what she had to say when we asked her a few questions about her foodservice scholarship and future career.
What is your major & what made you decide on it?
I am currently majoring in Dietetics and Nutrition & Health with a minor in Spanish. I have always been interested in the wellness of myself and decided to pursue in a career focused on food and people was a career path I was passionate about. After being offered the position of an Undergraduate Management Assistant at Kramer Dining Center I immediately fell in love with the management perspective of Dietetics..
How has your scholarship enabled you to pursue a career in foodservice?
This scholarship will enable be to continue to finish my degree in Dietetics as a prepare to apply for the internship to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist.
What was your first job in foodservice?
I was first a Dietary Aid at a retirement community, Stoneybrook in Manhattan, KS.
What would you say is your "dream job" after you graduate?
My dream job would be able to be a unit director for a school food service such as a school district or a university.
What have you learned that you will apply to a career in foodservice?
I have learned that in order to successfully run a foodservice operation, team work is an extremely important aspect so all tasks can be accomplished.
What are some of the challenges students like you face in today's world of foodservice?
Challenges that are present are competing and getting accepted for internships in order to finish the Dietetics degree to be able to take the RD exam.
Do you have mentor? How have they helped you?
Missy Schrader, unit director of Kramer Dining Center at Kansas State University, is a fantastic mentor. As one of her previous students and current coworker, her knowledge about food serivce has greatly impacted my career as an undergraduate of Dietetics.
What is your favorite meal?
My favorite meal would be parmesan crusted sole, with asparagus and mashed potatoes.
About the IFMA Education Foundation:
The IFMA Education Foundation promotes the next generation of foodservice leaders. The Foundation is committed to give qualified culinary, marketing or food science students support toward completion of education requirements. Over the years, we've accomplished our goal by providing scholarships, publications, educational programs, internships and stipends to accredited institutions and individuals enrolled in accredited institutions.
Do you want to support the next generation of foodservice by making a donation to IFMA's Education Foundation?
Contact us at ifma@ifmaworld.com.