As I reflect on my journey over the past 10 years since graduation, I see the imprints of my educational experience at Messiah everywhere. After leaving Messiah, there were so many questions about the future. The knowledge and support of Mrs. Mihok and Dr. Witt were so inspiring, but would I be able to compete in the "real world"?

The answer was above and beyond my expectations. This question was quickly answered as I took placement exams upon entering an internship at The University of Medicine and Dentistry in New Jersey . I was with graduates from Montclair State , Rutgers , New York University, and other well known universities in the New Jersey / New York area. My Messiah education held strong, as I placed very well in these exams. After my internship, God placed many people and jobs in my path, for which I am grateful.

While still an intern at UMDNJ, I received a call from the administrator of a small nursing home where I had worked in the kitchen as a teen. He asked if I would consider being their part-time consultant dietitian, which I accepted and have now worked as for 10 years. After completing my internship, I also took a full-time job in a 500-bed nursing home, and worked there until I got married in 1998. At that time I was graciously led to a part-time job at a Christian nursing home in Wyckoff, NJ. This was a wonderful experience, as I was able to show God's love to those in need as well as practice dietetics. God provided a nurturing environment where I could express my faith and knowledge of dietetics.

After my second son was born, I decided not to return to this position and instead focus on my family. Currently, I am a consultant dietitian for Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice and the small nursing home. I love dietetics, and look forward to working more hours as Ian (4), Brett (2), and Brielle (1) enter school. There is no doubt that the hours Mrs. Mihok and Dr. Witt invested in my education have been well worth it. The integration of love for God and love of vocation will never leave me.