Meet Digna I Cassens, MHA, RDN, CLT, FAND, who has drive, determination, four decades of experience, and incredible organizational and entrepreneurial skills. She’s the president of her company and continues to have a successful and ambitious career. Read on to learn more about her exciting career path. – Sarah

What attracted you to the field of nutrition and dietetics? This was an indirect decision arrived at after 2 years as a science major. I discovered then that I had interest in so many other areas, such as the arts, music, history, languages, fashion, travel and food so I could not stay focused, enrolling for required classes as well as packing my schedule with many “fun” electives. My very wise and perceptive Dean sat down with me to explore practical options that would make me happier. I realized immediately that the field of dietetics and nutrition was the best fit for my multiple and creative interests. She helped me gained focus, and I found my niche. It’s easy to keep on working when you enjoy what you do and are having so much fun. I discovered a career that would satisfy my creativity, scientific curiosity, passion for business and finance, help others and improve their health, teach, and allow me to continue developing my culinary skills.

Your Job Title? President/Sole proprietor

Company you are with now? Cassens Associates – Diversified Nutrition Management Systems

Website:
– http://www.nutritionmanagementsystems.org
– http://www.flavorfulfortifiedfood.com

Social Media:
– Twitter: @digtheisland
– LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/digna-cassens-mha-rdn-clt
– Pinterest: digtheisland
– Instagram: digtheisland

How did you get your current job in dietetics? After 4 decades in senior management in the corporate world I decided it was time to satisfy my entrepreneurial spirit, start writing and indulge in my many hobbies. The only way to do it was having my own company. So I jumped in.

What skills were you born with and what skills have you learned along the way? I’m super organized and work fast. I have a far-reaching imagination and am ambitious. Although those aren’t skills, they’re attributes that have helped me get where I want to be and given me an advantage. I gained discipline, learned to manage people and get the most from them by coaxing them into peak performance.

What advice do you have for others wanting to be just as successful and fulfilled as you?

• Just do it, take the plunge and enjoy it
• Learn to plan, organize, take one thing at a time
• Keep lists, memory fails and lists help you get organized
• Don’t stop learning, reaching out, asking questions
• Play, relax, enjoy life and be joyous
• A smile goes further than a frown
• You can gather more flies with honey than with vinegar
• Be helpful; what you give today will come back threefold later

If you could be paid for your job with something other than a paycheck, what would it be?
– Travel
– Recognition

Sarah Koszyk is founder of Family. Food. Fiesta. A family-based wellness program and blog focusing on recipes, family health tips, and videos with kids cooking in the kitchen. She is a Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Coach specializing in sports nutrition and adult and pediatric weight management. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, or LinkedIn.