AAFCS turns the spotlight on individuals, their experiences, and how they have benefited from AAFCS membership. It offers an opportunity for you to share your story with your colleagues and the greater FCS community.
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Megan M. Smith
Lubbock, Texas
Student Member since 2005
This month’s Member Spotlight features member Megan M. Smith of the Texas affiliate, a 2009 recipient of AAFCS’ Mildred B. Davis Nutrition Fellowship and a registered dietician who is impacting lives through her work with Head Start. Read on to learn more about Megan. We are proud she is a member!
Why did you join AAFCS?
As a new student at Texas Tech University, I was looking for an avenue in which to combine my passion for nutrition with my love of people. I came across an organization new to me – AAFCS. Dr. Karen Alexander took me under her wing and the rest is history.
How has membership in AAFCS been of value to you and your practice?
AAFCS has allowed me the opportunity to grow as a person and professional. On both a local and national level, I’ve garnered the benefits of collaborating with seasoned experts and fellow students. The diversity of this lot reflects the differences I find in the workplace. I encounter the likes of doctors, physical therapists, nurses, and a host of other health care workers. To be the best servant to my clients, I must function well with others, drawing upon their skills while reciprocating the knowledge I possess. Furthermore, AAFCS has afforded me support in the way of scholarships, online resources, and a sense of community with those I may not even know. The members of AAFCS share a common goal – to optimize the lives of others using a holistic approach. It is a privilege for me to be among people who share the same enthusiasm for the field.
AAFCS is …
An organization that underscores professionalism, social networking, and service.
Please explain your answer.
At one memorable AAFCS event, I heard a profound slogan: “Service is the rent we pay for living.” I could not agree more. Through my affiliation with AAFCS and similar organizations, I’ve embraced the attitude of giving and its unrivaled ability to enhance the condition of myself and others. A few of my family and consumer science related activities include serving as treasurer for (Texas) AFCS, chairing Texas Tech University’s Human Sciences Awards Banquet, and offering a variety of health presentations throughout the year. These venues remind me of the joy I garner from working with others and the unique potential I have to impact society.
Why did you choose the field of family and consumer sciences?
My fascination for all-things-health began at an early age. Growing up, I witnessed my mother – a French teacher – confront the challenges of a high school classroom. Fearing that I wasn’t cut out for such obstacles, I vowed never to venture into teaching. Ironically, that is exactly I am doing as a dietitian. Though my practice doesn’t entail a traditional classroom setting, I do guide individuals in satisfying their fundamental physiological needs – a crucial element to overall well being.
Family and consumer sciences have helped me hone my skills as an effective coach by taking into account one’s personal circumstances, level of motivation, and resources. During my time as a student and professional, I’ve experienced the delight of sharing my expertise and empowering another to attain a better way of living. Such pleasures parallel that of any school environment.
Please list a few of your most recent accomplishments.
2009
Became the Early Head Start Dietitian; Received the Mildred B. Davis Nutrition Fellowship
2010
Completed a Master’s Thesis: “The Impact of Acculturation on Anthropometric Indices of Hispanic Youth”
Served as a preceptor to Texas Tech University’s dietetic interns
Developed a case study regarding medical nutrition therapy for a Down Syndrome child with dysphagia
Evaluated the use of antioxidants as a treatment for developmental delay
Created meal plans for competitive athletes
Authored multiple nutrition articles for athletes and the general public
Took my current position as the Lubbock’s Head Start Dietitian
Assumed the position of Council on Policy Chairperson for the Lubbock Dietetic Association
While much of my time has been spent advising others, I will forever consider myself a student. Life continues to reveal valuable lessons that relate to perseverance, interpersonal relationships, and self improvement. The AAFCS has nurtured my enthusiasm for learning as I hone my dietetic skills. In a debt of gratitude, I will continue to embody the pillars of this benevolent organization in my quest to serve the generations of today and tomorrow.
Biography
A fascination for nutrition led me to pursue a career in dietetics. Through the Texas Tech Nutritional Sciences program, I’ve obtained a bachelor’s and master’s degree in addition to becoming a registered dietitian. While at Texas Tech I completed a thesis on the impact of acculturation on weight parameters of Mexican-American youth. During this time period I became the dietitian for the Early Head Start program. I later assumed a similar position as the Head Start dietitian. Through this venue I monitor the food service operations of the region’s 32 sites, evaluate the growth and nutritional status of children, develop menus that adhere to federal guidelines, and counsel at-risk families. In addition to serving these disadvantaged populations, I provide nutritional guidance to those with concerns ranging from diet therapy for Down syndrome to sports nutrition. During my free time I enjoy reading, working out, and pretending I’m Martha Stewart – a valiant, but often fruitless endeavor!
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