Clinical placements play a vital role in a health care learner’s journey, bridging academic learning with real-world practice and helping students build confidence, competence, and professional identity. Through hands-on experience, learners develop essential clinical skills, teamwork, and an understanding of patient centred care.
As an academic health sciences centre, our Hospital is proud to support learners by providing a safe, supportive, and enriching placement environment where future professionals can learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully to patient care. Every month, the department of Academic Affairs is highlighting learners at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. Today, we meet Jenna, who is in the Dietetic Program at NOSM University.
Hometown: Kitchener, Ontario
Program: Dietetic Practicum Program (DPP) at NOSM University. Undergraduate education at the University of Guelph
What does an average day during your placement look like?
My program is designed so that I have four- to six-week placement rotations. I have been lucky to be completing two placements at TBRHSC. I completed a rotation in Oncology/Medicine, and now I am completing a rotation in Renal.
A day for me looks like determining which patients are most important to see, gathering any relevant information that might help lead the conversation I have with the patients, conversing with the patients about their diet, nutritional concerns, and any interventions that I recommend. Finally, I chart on these patients. I ask my preceptors to give me feedback often to ensure I can correct any mistakes and change my approach next time.
Is there a mentor of faculty member who has significantly impacted you?
The entire Dietitian Team at TBRHSC have all significantly impacted me in a positive way. I have been able to learn so much from them, everyone is always willing to answer my questions, and I have felt very supported in my time at TBRHSC. I really appreciate the guidance I have received, as everyone has made sure that I know I am not alone and can reach out if I need anything.
What is one interesting fact others might not know about you?
An interesting fact about me, is that I am very crafty. I love trying out new crafts and making things. One of the most interesting things I did was, last year, I sewed a formal ball gown for myself that I wore to a Fantasy Ball. It took me a very long time, but I am so proud of the results. I find that sewing and making crafts has fostered my ability to problem-solve, as I usually get stuck but can work my way through by taking some time to think about how the pieces fit together. It has always been very rewarding to create something I can wear.
