-with Iliana Ardila
Can you tell me a little about yourself?
My name is Iliana Ardila, I am a 2015 KU graduate from the Dietetics and Nutrition program at the Lakeland campus. I am 27 years old and married with no children. I moved to the U.S. five years ago from Venezuela, where I became a Registered Dietician.
How has your experience as a KU student been?
It’s been great. I am very fortunate that I chose KU to pursue my education. Moving from Venezuela there was a lot of work that had to be done in order for me to get everything transferred so that I could get enrolled into the Dietetics and Nutrition program, but the Senior Admissions Counselor, Carolina Norby, took care of everything for me. She made the transition a smooth one. I also liked the structure of taking one class at a time. It was really helpful for me to be able to concentrate on one subject at a time rather than several.
What made you decide to choose your major?
Well, I was already a Registered Dietician so I knew I wanted to be somewhere in the medical field. After doing some research, I realized that I wanted to be on the prevention side of medicine rather than dealing with problems that already exist. Dietetics and Nutrition was the best option for me.
What are your plans after graduation?
I want to enter the working force to gain on the job experience, in hopes to eventually obtain my Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) license. I definitely plan to pursue my education further in the medical field by getting my masters. I’m just not sure exactly what I want to study yet.
Do you have any advice you would like to give your fellow KU students?
Start early! In order to start your career you have to get your education first. It will be over before you know it! Also, specifically to the students who have transferred here from outside the U.S., just know that it is possible to pursue a degree in a new country. Intimidating as it might be, it is very possible!
Thank you Iliana for participating in this interview with me. It was a joy speaking with you. Congratulations on your Co-Valedictorian position and I wish you all the best in your future aspirations.
As always students, if you want to share something on ELSE, or have any questions or comments, feel free to email me. I would LOVE to hear from you!
Your fellow KU student,
My instructors believed in me. They were more than instructors, they tried to get to know you as a person and tried to understand your goals so they could push you towards them. Student services helped me find a job before I even graduated. Everyone was dedicated to my overall success.
