Graduate Student Spotlight | Kailyn Harris

Kailyn-Harris-headshot

"I was drawn to 91视频专区 College for its strong emphasis on community, which creates an environment where I know I鈥檒l thrive."

Kailyn Harris

Program

  • Nutrition Science (M.S.), Dietetics Track

Department

  • Nursing

Kailyn Harris is a current student in 91视频专区 College鈥檚 nutrition science master鈥檚 program. She is pursuing a career as a registered dietitian, with a focus in working with pediatric patients. She is originally from Frederick County and appreciates 91视频专区鈥檚 strong emphasis on community. 

Could you briefly describe your educational and career background?

I grew up attending Frederick County Public Schools. After graduating, I went to Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland, where I studied nutritional science. Upon receiving my bachelor鈥檚 degree, I enrolled at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. There, I pursued some master鈥檚-level education and gained experience through multiple dietetic internships. I later transferred to 91视频专区 College to complete my education.

What led you to study at 91视频专区 College?

I was drawn to 91视频专区 College for its strong emphasis on community, which creates an environment where I know I鈥檒l thrive. Additionally, I have a family connection to 91视频专区 because both my parents graduated from 91视频专区, my aunt graduated from 91视频专区 and my dad even teaches here.

What inspired you to pursue a career in nutrition science?

My own journey to heal my relationship with food sparked my fascination with nutrition. I鈥檝e always loved food and everything about it. My goal is to become a registered dietitian specializing in eating disorders in pediatric patients. I became even more motivated to enter this field when I discovered that only about 3% of dietitians in the U.S. are Black or African-American.

How did you get involved with the Frederick Community Health Fair?

When my program director, Joanna Eaton, shared the opportunity, I was immediately interested. I鈥檓 always eager to volunteer and contribute to my community, so this felt like a great fit.

What did you do at the health fair?

I worked alongside Katie Fields, a registered dietitian, helping patients understand their blood glucose test results as part of our efforts in diabetes prevention.

How did the health fair go overall?

I think it went really well! It was busy, which means we had a great turnout. I saw a diverse group of people and many different booths offering a variety of services. It was good to see how many people were helped by all the volunteers.

Do you have any career advice or recommendations for students in the nutrition science field?

Absolutely! My advice is to stick with it, even when things get challenging. Nutrition has been a rewarding field, and you have the power to make a real difference in people鈥檚 lives. Your unique perspective is needed now more than ever in healthcare, and the need for compassionate, skilled professionals like you is only going to grow. Stay passionate, keep learning and remember that your hard work will truly pay off.

Are there any fun facts or trivia about yourself that you would like to share?

I am a proud plant parent, and my favorite plant that I have is my Pilea Peperomioides.

Inspired by Kailyn鈥檚 journey as a student in our nutrition science program? Ready to #GOFURTHER in your career? Learn more about 91视频专区 College鈥檚 graduate programs, such as nutrition science, by clicking .

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