I met Sara Haas RDN, LDN, through the executive committee of Nutrition Entrepreneur’s Dietetic Practice Group, and she has been an amazing contributor to the organization. She is a go-getter, an inspiration, and lots of fun. I wanted to share her story about her unique career to remind us all that you can do any job you want to do and get paid for it. All you need is passion, drive, and a winning attitude. Her Social Media bio says it all: A food-lover first & foremost. Chef & dietitian. Recipe developer & writer. Spokesperson. Contributing editor for Food & Nutrition Magazine. Voice of Eating Right Minute. Contributor Eating Well Magazine. Meet Sara Haas! – Sarah

What attracted you to the field of nutrition and dietetics? My mom had a history of ulcerative colitis and I was always fascinated by how food played such a pivotal role in her health.

Your Job Title? Self-employed Consultant Culinary Dietitian!

Website: www.sarahaasrdn.com

Other Social Media links you would like to include:
 – Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cook...
 – Twitter: https://twitter.com/cookinrd
 – Pinterest: https://www.instagram.com/cook...
 – Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaraH...

Describe a typical (or not so typical) day-in-the-work-life for you? No typical day here. Some days I’m working hard on recipe development or writing blog posts and others I am coming up with pitches for magazines, online publications or anyone interested in food and nutrition.

How did you get your current job in dietetics? A lot of blood, sweat and tears! ;) Seriously though, I had a lot of clinical jobs and worked doing a lot of things I didn’t enjoy. But I wouldn’t change a thing. Those experiences made me a better person and a better dietitian. I worked hard to get to where I am today. I know most dietitians can relate to that! 

What skills were you born with and what skills have you learned along the way? I’ve always been up for a challenge, and as a result, am always ready to try something new or even a bit scary. I was extremely shy growing up. Perhaps painfully shy. But with time and some jobs that forced me to become an extrovert, I learned that I had a voice and that it was a voice that could really help people. That was meaningful.

What advice do you have for others wanting to be just as successful and fulfilled as you? It’s ok to start off with a job that you don’t love. It’s those jobs that give you a backbone and make you smarter and stronger. They prepare you for the challenges ahead of you. Put in the work, and you will be rewarded. Never think you can’t do something, you’d be surprised at what you can accomplish. Make friends, not enemies along the way. We’re all in this together, it’s much nicer to have people on your side!

If you could be paid for your job with something other than a paycheck, what  would it be? This is an AWESOME question! :) Food styling props and chocolate would be my answer to that! Those things make me really happy.

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.