It’s time to meet Tanya Williams! As a nutrition specialist on campus, Tanya is full of informative health advice for students. Nutrition is so important in any college gal’s life and can have positive impacts on both physical and mental health.
Read more to find out how Tanya got her start as a nutritionist, the free campus services offered that all women should know about and what her personal version of a power breakfast is.
1. What piqued your interest in nutrition, particularly nutrition with respect to college-aged young adults?
I knew I always wanted to go into the medical field, I just wasn’t sure in what aspect. When I began training for long distance running events and triathlons, I had to really pay attention to my diet/fueling regime, and I was hooked! Nutrition (particularly sports-nutrition) it was. As far as working with college-aged young adults, they are so receptive and open to the concept of food having a direct impact on their current and future health; they are willing to try new things and have a lot of questions to keep me on my toes.
2. What did you study in college to give you the necessary foundation for your career? What degree(s) does one need to obtain to become a Registered Dietitian?
I have an undergraduate degree in Chemistry (SUNY Geneseo), and a Master’s Degree in Nutrition Sciences (PSU). I am a licensed (LDN) and registered dietitian (RD), which required a 4-year degree in nutrition sciences (lots of science and math classes), a 11-13 month clinical residency (in a hospital), a registration exam, followed by continuing education requirements every two and five years. I also have advanced credentialing in sports nutrition (CSSD, which was an additional exam and continuing education units required every five years as well).
3. What health and nutrition resources on campus should students know about?
First of all, WE ARE FREE TO SEE and available Monday through Friday, 8-4 p.m. By “we,” I mean BU now has two dietitians to help meet the needs of the student population. It’s important to note that you do not have to have any dietary issues (diabetes, GERD, and/or an eating disorder) or be a varsity athlete to see us…we are available to anyone, for any reason! All appointments are private and are conducted at BU Student Health (room 201) by appointment only. To make an appointment, just call 570.577.1401. Secondly, we started the Bucknell Nutrition Initiative Program (BNIP) in January 2013, to help link nutrition/dietary education with dining services. This program has exploded on campus and now offers health fairs, cooking demos, guided shopping tours, guided dining hall tours, video-taped cooking demos, new cookbooks at the library, new foods and nutrition bars in the dining halls, a Bucknell Well Facebook page … and we continue to come up with new ideas and programming. Thirdly, we have a BNIP student committee that anyone can be a part of. They are an incredible group of students who have helped to take BNIP to another, more student-oriented level.
4. Overall, do you think Bucknell has a healthy student body? Why or why not?
Yes. I believe this age-group is more invested in health and nutrition as they have been “exposed” to it more. Unfortunately, some of the “exposure” is to inappropriate diet plan, pills, potions or lotions, which can make my job a little more difficult. There is no easy, quick fix to good health and well-being; it must be first learned, then practiced. Consistency counts.
5. What is your personal version of a “power breakfast?”
I’m a sandwich girl, and I also believe in the non-traditional breakfast. This morning it was two pieces of pumpernickel bread, alpine lace Swiss cheese, roasted turkey, OJ and a cup of strong coffee.
6. Do you think the Bison and Bostwick Marketplace offer a wide variety of food that is both nutritious and convenient?
Absolutely!
What is the one thing you think both should offer in addition to their current selection?
Perhaps low-fat dressing options, but I’m being picky now. That fact is, everyone is exposed to all types of foods (good or not-so-good) and we have to teach ourselves moderation because the real world is not going to change for us. We are never going to be with chocolate, French fries, or cheesecake, so taking it away or restricting its consumption is not going to solve anything. Being consistent truly works.
7. If you could offer one piece of health advice to Bucknell women, what would it be?
Do not allow a number to define you.
8. If you were a fruit or vegetable what would you be and why?
Pomegranate: my favorite color is red, it’s power-packed with good nutrients, and it’s intriguing to look at.
9. What is your favorite healthy weekend activity to do in Central Pa.?
Going for a fall run with my husband and eating a big bowl of homemade soup afterwards. Boring, but true.