Today we’d like to introduce you to Hoda Hakimjavadi.
Hi Hoda, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I grew up in Los Angeles and attended UCLA for college, where I was first introduced to a book I read for an elective course in my junior year on the topic of nutrition. I was pre-med at the time, but really enjoyed the information I was exposed to in this book. I then began researching the field of nutrition extensively, and the following quarter I had decided to pursue a career as a clinical dietitian. I continued on this journey by obtaining an advanced degree in nutrition and completing a program to obtain my degree as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. I was able to come back to UCLA and work as a dietitian in my first job, and now, 8 years later, I am so grateful for my journey and where it has led me.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
With anything worth having in life, it never comes easy. During the clinical rotation I had to complete before being able to finish my program and sit for the exam that would provide me with my license as a dietitian; I went through a great deal of growing that did not come easy. I had to learn a great deal of information and all in a hospital setting while working with patients, and it was far too overwhelming. I had never been exposed to anything of that caliber, and it required me putting many hours into research and studying on my own. I put everything else in my life on hold during that period of time, but I can say given that I completed the program successfully, it was well worth it.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a clinical dietitian in a hospital, I have the opportunity to work closely with the medical team, patients, and their families while they are dealing with a serious health issue. I provide nutrition care in areas such as providing tub-feeding for patients that are unable to eat due to their current health status, pre- and post-transplant education, and even micronutrient needs. The field of nutrition is highly specialized, and being an expert in an acute care environment requires a great deal of knowledge and compassion. I feel humbled to be a small part of each patient’s health journey.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
Family and friends. Throughout the years of working in a hospital having gone through life challenges, and watching others go through health struggles, I really see the positive impact of having strong and meaningful relationships.
Contact Info:
- Website: HealthyByHoda.com
- Instagram: @HealthyByHoda
Image Credits
Melina Farahmand
