Celebrating Dietitians Week: Dietetics as a second career
As part of our celebrations for Dietitians Week, we spoke to Victoria Shard, Acute Dietitian here at North Mid. She told us about her diverse background before retraining as a dietitian, why she retrained and what she loves about her role.
What was your background before you became a Dietititan?
I have had many careers: Television, Film Editing, having my two children and more recently my café in Dalston.
What was your career path to becoming a qualified Dietitian?
I completed a one-year’s Science foundation, then my four years BSc in Dietetics and Nutrition, at London Metropolitan University. My two clinical placements were within the community of Hackney and at North Mid. Both gave me an understanding of the differences between community and Acute settings, and which best suited me.
What inspired you to become a Dietitian?
My café gave me a real insight into what I was good at and what I enjoyed, which is essential when considering a career. I’ve always been fascinated by loved food and what other people eat, and I also really enjoy speaking to people.
What are the lows and the highs of your career?
Low’s: Balancing having a full time job with two children, especially during the last lockdown - my husband did all the home schooling whilst I worked at North Mid.
Highlights: I really enjoy being part of the Dietetics team, it has been full on but we all share the workload and support each other. I did two shifts on ITU which gave me an understanding of night shifts and how wonderful the nurses and doctors are. It was good to feel useful.
Is there any advice for someone considering of re-training?
Do it. Honestly, it has been the best decision I made. It comes with its own difficulties but I am so glad, as I really enjoy what I do.
What do you think you bring to patient experience?
Hopefully my communication skills, treating everyone as individuals and my life experience.