My name is Sophie Velocci, and I graduated from the Montclair State Dietetic Internship this past May. I am pursuing a career as a Registered Dietitian with the goal of helping individuals improve their health through sustainable, evidence-based nutrition! I’m passionate about wellness, education, leadership, and empowering others to build healthier relationships with food and their bodies. Whether that is in the clinical or community space is to be determined but I am just ready to jump in and join the wonderful community of dietitians in New Jersey. I am excited to serve at the NJAND and hope to continue to be part of the committee and advocate and contribute to dietitians across our state!
What motivates you to get up and pursue your goals each day as a student?
What motivates me most is knowing that the work I’m doing now is building toward a career where I can genuinely make an impact on people’s health and lives. I’ve always been someone who loves helping others, and nutrition gives me a way to combine wellness and connection. I’m also really motivated by growth; I’m constantly trying to become the best version of myself, both personally and professionally!
What inspired you to pursue a career in nutrition and dietetics?
I’ve always been passionate about health, wellness, and understanding how the body works. What drew me to nutrition specifically was seeing how powerful food can be… not just physically, but emotionally and socially too. Growing up I definitely had to find my own path in this way which is what fueled my passion. I love that nutrition allows me to help people build sustainable habits and improve their quality of life in a realistic, personalized way
Where are you currently studying, and what program are you in?
I recently just finished my Dietetic Internship with Montclair State and am studying for the exam!
What does a typical week look like for you as a student in nutrition and dietetics?
A typical week varies of course but this past year I found myself at rotations, volunteering events within Montclair State and outside of school for nutrition events, spending time with family, and teaching Pilates to bridge wellness from food and physical activity!
What has being a student in this field taught you about yourself, wellness, or health?
It has taught me that health is about so much more than food or appearance. Health is about balance and finding a lifestyle that aligns with one’s self. It has also taught me that I value connection and communication, and that I’m happiest when I’m educating, motivating, and supporting others.
Have any professors, advisors, or peers served as mentors for you? How have they shaped your journey?
Yes, I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who have encouraged me to step into leadership and trust my abilities. Their guidance has helped me become more confident, advocate for myself, and recognize the impact I can make in this field. I will forever be grateful to the Montclair State Nutrition and Food Science staff for believing in me and helping me grow in the capacity I have thus far.
What advice would you give to high school or first-year college students considering nutrition & dietetics as a major?
Be curious, stay open-minded, and don’t be afraid to explore different areas of the field. Nutrition is so much bigger than most people realize. Also, get involved early! Join organizations, volunteer, network, and build relationships. Those experiences can shape your career just as much as the classroom and personal development as well! Be yourself and say yes more than you may want to.
Are you involved in any student organizations, volunteer work, or dietetic internships?
Yes! At Montclair State, I served as the Montclair State Dietetics Organization President during my undergraduate degree. I also sat on the board of the Association for Healthcare Foodservice as their first student board member. I completed my undergraduate, masters, and Dietetic Internship at Montclair State University. I have volunteered at countless events and spoke as the Commencement Speaker at the 2024 Undergraduate Graduation Ceremony.
Are you from New Jersey or attending school in NJ? What do you enjoy most about the state?
I am from New Jersey born and raised! I grew up in Montville, NJ where I currently still reside about 20 minutes away from Montclair State University. I enjoy summers at the Jersey shore and our delicious food in this state.
What’s your favorite thing to do for fun or to relax outside of your studies?
Outside of school and career, I love to teach Pilates, cook new recipes with family, spend time with friends, read, and guilty pleasure watch my reality shows.
