Ursula Ridens, RDN

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor

President/Owner of Ursula Ridens, RD Inc.

Website: www.ursularidens.com

How did you get started in your career?

My vision of having a flexible work schedule and being my own boss mixed with my interest in health and nutrition is what got me started in my career as a private practice dietitian.  However, this is not where I started out.  I climbed the ladder through clinical and outpatient dietitian positions through a local hospital and gradually built my private practice on the side.  I developed an interest in the field of eating disorders in college and began researching on the topic and networking with professionals.  Having a good understanding of my passion to help others develop a more peaceful relationship with food and their body is what has allowed me to build my business successfully.

What advice would you give to someone new to the field?

My #1 piece of advice is to share your passion and work interests with others.  Talk about what you aspire to do, network with other professionals (both those in your field of choice and those outside of the field), perhaps volunteer your time or shadow a professional to gain experience in your area of interest.  For some, this means stepping out of their comfort zone.  Believe in yourself and that you can achieve anything.