SAND wraps up exciting year
This year, the Student Association of Nutrition and Dietetics (SAND) acted upon its goals for the semester of increasing participation, holding service-learning opportunities, and networking with peers.
Giving Back
SAND participated in service-learning events such as the Find Your Classes event in the fall, helping to show incoming freshmen around campus, the United Way Backpack Program to create meal packages for those in need, and the Big Event, where the student organization helped the older adults in the greater Grand Forks community with yard work and maintenance.
Throughout the academic year, members were granted opportunities to gain service-learning hours and network with others to aid in their development as they progress through their education.
Networking & Mentorship
SAND’s networking activities included baking and cooking classes, assembling holiday care packages for loved ones, and hosting pizza and hot chocolate socials. Another program we offered was the mentor-mentee program to allow for greater interaction among early career and advanced students, with groups attending meetings to network and share their advice and experiences through their education at UND.
Meetings Provide Education
To maintain participation among members, SAND added a virtual meeting option for those away on rotations or unable to attend the meeting physically.
During some monthly meetings, nutrition professionals were invited as special guests to share their educational and professional experiences with SAND members. The speakers included Mandy Burbank, who works at Grand Forks Public Health, and Barbara Arnston, who works in her own private practice. They spoke about their experiences through their education and work and provided advice to students.
In addition to the nutrition professionals, SAND brought in UND Career Services to speak about building cover letters and resumes and instructed nutrition and dietetics students on how to create their own.
End of Year
The year concluded by electing and welcoming the incoming officers for the 2023-2024 year and hosting the SAND Banquet. At the banquet, attendees enjoyed wonderful food from UND catering, and celebrated scholarships, student awards, and graduates. Guest speaker, Jami Rokala, shared an inspiring message of perseverance and following one’s dreams.
Join SAND!
SAND exists as an open forum for those interested in nutrition. The primary focus is on service learning hours for students associated with any kind of academic major. We do various activities and emphasize networking opportunities. Join SAND today!
