Meet Carly Siceloff, MBA, MS, RD, LDN, who is a true leader within the dietetic industry. Her passion for helping people, educating people, and guiding people towards reaching their unlimited potential has been a huge contributor to her successful career as an Onsite Clinical Lead with Cigna. Her theme phrase, “Collaborate and Listen,” by Vanilla Ice, rings true to her dance/career moves and fun personality. Read on to learn more about how she continues to positively enhance our dietetic world. - Sarah

What attracted you to the field of nutrition and dietetics?
Dietetics is my second career. Prior to becoming a dietitian, I studied theatre at UCF (BA degree) and worked in the theme park entertainment industry. I loved performing in parades and shows and bringing life to many animated characters. It was a dream job and an unforgettable experience. As I moved away from performing and into a backstage role, I started to reflect on my own health. Moving from an active job to a sedentary role sparked my interest in health and wellness. I started to read nutrition books and watch documentaries. As I self-taught, I knew something was missing. I needed the truth, the hard science. So, I applied to the Master’s in Human Nutrition program at Winthrop University.

Your Job Title?
Onsite Clinical Lead

Company you are with now?
Cigna

Describe a typical (or not so typical) day-in-the-work-life for you?
Every day is different! I wear many hats and I absolutely love the variety. Some days are spent reviewing documentation and charts. Some days I host multidisciplinary clinical meetings with medical doctors and pharmacists. I also build relationships with matrix partners and help strategize health focused events and activities. I build presentations and create educational materials. I manage projects and outreach campaigns. I assist in the interview and new-hire onboarding processes. My role is equal parts clinical, organizational and creative – it requires excellent communication and project management skills.

How did you get your current job in dietetics?
I was recommended for an Onsite Health Coach role through a friend – he was actually my fitness trainer when I was working in theme park entertainment. An opening to be a health coach at a theme park popped up and he submitted my name. It was a perfect fit – a dietitian at a theme park! Now, I serve as the Clinical Lead supporting health coaches, both dietitians and nurses. I love what we do because we are the bridge between their health goals and health outcomes.

What skills were you born with and what skills have you learned along the way?
I believe I was born with leadership tendencies (maybe I was just born bossy?). As a kid I was very organized and opinionated. I created neighborhood clubs and deemed myself President. I organized the meetings and the agendas. I put on “stage” shows for the neighborhood parents, and of course, I was always the director. It’s a little cringe in hindsight. Throughout grade school I kept the momentum going by joining extracurricular activities and running for leadership roles. I was Junior Class President and President of the Beta Club. I was also captain of my travel soccer league. My senior superlative was “Most Involved,” naturally.

Along the way, I have learned more about leadership and what it takes to truly motivate and inspire others. The most important skills I have learned are to “collaborate and listen” (thanks, Vanilla Ice). I have also learned the importance of kindness; it is important to always be kind, even when others are not. Integrity and kindness go a long way. I try to lead with empathy and understanding.

What advice do you have for others wanting to be just as successful and fulfilled as you?
Follow your curiosities; there is no right path or right way to be a dietitian. Be flexible and willing to do tasks outside of your comfort zone. One of my biggest pet peeves is when someone says, “that’s not my job” or turns away from opportunities. Volunteer to take on new tasks and always look for the teachable moments – that is where growth happens. A positive attitude goes a long way!

If you could be paid for your job with something other than a paycheck, what
would it be?
Time. But, thankfully my company is very generous with time and supports work-life balance and self-care. I truly couldn’t ask for anything else!