“I have a strong desire to work as a dietitian my entire life. I hope I can be a dietitian one day and I will put my substantial efforts into it.”
— Lydia Tang, an Associate Degree NUFM Graduate, 2019
My dream came true. Today, I am a HCPC-registered dietitian.
Since the age of 17, I experienced how nutrition and lifestyle changes could improve my own health and wellbeing. That personal journey inspired me to help others experience the same positive impact. Courses in CIE gave me a strong foundation in dietary therapy, nutrition science and food management, providing practical knowledge that I still apply today.
The foundation in CIE supported me as I completed my Bachelor’s Degree in Food and Nutrition, and later carried me through an MSc in Dietetics, awarded with Merit, at the University of East Anglia. As an international student from Hong Kong studying in the UK, the journey was not always easy, but every placement, challenge and patient interaction helped me grow. I completed clinical placements across a range of specialties within the NHS, received the CAHPR Poster Presentation Prize for my research, and presented another research project at the BAPEN Conference.
Looking back, this journey has taught me more than professional knowledge. It has helped me understand myself such as what motivates me, what I value, and what kind of practitioner I want to become. Seeing patients experience positive changes in their health through nutrition continues to give me a strong sense of purpose.
I truly believe the enhanced New Higher Diploma programme in Nutrition and Food Management combining modern and traditional dietary therapy with strong industry connections, offers students valuable hands-on experience, providing a meaningful platform for their future development.
You may not know exactly where this journey will take you. I certainly did not. But if you stay curious, work hard and embrace each opportunity to learn, you may be surprised by what you can achieve.
Hold onto your passion, pair it with commitment, and trust the process!
