Meet Aiysha Ahmed, MS, RD, CDCES, who loves working for the Senior Nutrition Program managing 13 different sites in Santa Clara county. She also has a private practice on the side. She’s passionate about creating new and innovative programs and the combination of her job responsibilities keeps her days exciting and fulfilled. Her inspirational quote, “Be persistent and don’t give up!” Check out her career path as she shares how she got her current jobs. - Sarah

What attracted you to the field of nutrition and dietetics?
I have had family members who died of diabetes and hypertension. I strongly felt that if they would’ve had better knowledge of food and nutrition, they might have had better outcomes and better able to manage these diseases. I wanted to learn more about food and nutrition and how it can help prevent diseases and improve quality of life.

Your Job Title?
I am a Managing Dietitian for Santa Clara County and I also am a private practice dietitian with my own company called Aiysha Ahmed RD.

Company you are with now?
I work for the Senior Nutrition Program of Santa Clara County (full time) and also have my own company, Aiysha Ahmed RD (5-6 hours/ week).

Website:

www.aiyshard.com

Social Media:

- Instagram: @aiysha.rd

Describe a typical (or not so typical) day-in-the-work-life for you?
I am fortunate to be able to telework 3 days a week and I go to my office 2 days a week currently. I manage 13 senior nutrition sites across Santa Clara County and work with them to conduct nutrition education, ensure they are meeting program and policy requirements, menu planning, and also conduct annual/quarterly evaluations on a yearly basis.

On Saturdays and some evenings, I schedule private sessions for clients interested in nutrition counseling.

How did you get your current job in dietetics?
I initially worked as a Clinical Dietitian for a Maternal Fetal Medicine outpatient clinic in Santa Clara County and applied for the Managing Dietitian position one year later. I love my role and am so grateful for the opportunity to work with seniors!

What skills were you born with and what skills have you learned along the way?
I am very creative and have a passion for innovating and learning about new ways and new ideas to solve problems. Along the way, I have learned how to become a better public speaker and become more confident in my oral communication skills.

What advice do you have for others wanting to be just as successful and fulfilled as you?
Be persistent and don’t give up! You may not have the perfect job right out of your dietetic internship, but be patient and you will eventually get a job that’s right for you. I started out working as a Food Service Manager and I didn’t like it initially. However, the experience was extremely valuable for me later on in my career.

If you could be paid for your job with something other than a paycheck, what
would it be?
Airline tickets! I love traveling, exploring new places, cultures, and food!!