How One D1 Athlete Found Community, Hands-on Research, and Purpose in UNH's Dietetics Program
Evie Lauzon ’29 is a current dietetics major, undergraduate research assistant, and student athlete who chose UNH for its top-ranked dietetics program and hands-on opportunities, like research in the Dao Lab and a semester abroad in Italy. Read on to hear Evie’s journey and discover what life as a UNH dietetics student looks like.
Discover the UNH dietetics program
Why did you choose UNH?
I chose UNH because of its highly regarded dietetics program and the many opportunities and resources it offers to help students succeed in their journey toward becoming a dietitian. Additionally, UNH's proximity to my hometown was important to me, as it allowed me to experience living away from home while still being only an hour away via Amtrak. Finally, the beautiful campus and still being able to have the four seasons was a huge plus as someone from New England.
What's something about UNH that most people don't know?
Even though it might look like a huge campus, you get to know people really fast. I was surprised by how fast I created relationships with other students and staff and how you see familiar faces more often than you would think. The campus fosters an environment that makes it really easy to find your fit within such a big school!
What advice would you give your high school self?
I would tell my high school self to put herself out there as much as possible once she gets to campus! Talk to professors and tell them why you're looking forward to their class, apply for opportunities no matter how far-fetched they might seem, and don't be afraid to do things that scare you. Also, enjoy the small things that make up each day because the months fly by!
Why did you choose the dietetics major?
I chose dietetics in high school because of my passion for food and how nutrition impacts overall health. As a longtime runner, I've seen firsthand how under fueling can affect not only athletic performance but also everyday life and well-being. I'm also interested in eating disorders and the psychological aspects of food, which is what drew me to pursue a minor in psychology. My goal is to become a dietitian and help others develop a healthier relationship with food while learning to fuel their bodies properly and prevent nutritional deficiencies.
What's your favorite course you've taken at UNH?
My favorite course so far has been BMS 508, Human Anatomy and Physiology II, with Dr. Gunn because of how applicable the material was to everyday life and how engaging and knowledgeable Dr. Gunn was. I'm most looking forward to taking more nutrition-focused courses during my semester abroad in Italy.
Tell us about an impactful hands-on learning experience you've had at UNH.
Being a part of the Dao research lab has given me the opportunity to apply what I'm learning to studies that have a real impact on people. I have already gained very useful tools and knowledge while working with Dr. Dao and fellow students. I have also spent this semester working as a tutor for Knack, which has allowed me to help other students succeed in classes I have already taken.
Are there any faculty or staff members who have made you feel particularly supported and encouraged at UNH?
I'm incredibly thankful for Dr. Dao who gave me the opportunity to be a research assistant within the Dao Lab. She and others within the lab have supported me over the past year by being inviting and encouraging of my participation in research studies. It's an honor to work among such wise faculty and students.
I have also worked with Rochelle L'Italien on nutrition education initiatives within UNH dining. Rochelle has provided me with ample resources and support to organize education events and content within the dining halls.
Where have you found a sense of community at UNH?
I have found the biggest sense of community within my small major of dietetics. It has been so great to be a part of a group of like-minded students all working towards the same goal of being a dietitian. I have met some of my best friends through my major and I can't wait to grow with them throughout these next few years.
What's a UNH experience that stands out to you?
Being a D1 student athlete on the cross country and track and field teams has given me a unique perspective on how to live a balanced life in college, both my academic and athletic careers while also finding time to do things I love.
What's a UNH tradition you love?
The "Finals Scream" in the library during finals week is a fun way to break up the stress of finals. It's a memory that I won't forget and one that I will look forward to over the next few years!
What's your favorite spot in Durham?
My favorite spot is definitely The Works. Catching up on work over breakfast with friends is my favorite way to spend my mornings before a long day of classes.
What are your aspirations for the future? How is your time at UNH helping you get there?
I aspire to be a dietitian specializing in eating disorders. The dietetics 4+1 program will help me get there through its rotations through different realms of dietetics, preparation for the CDR exam, and classes that give students hands-on experience. I feel very confident about being a part of a program that boasts a 100% pass rate on the Dietetics CDR exam.
Have you taken part in any undergraduate research opportunities?
Yes, I am a research assistant within the Dao Lab. The lab studies the relationship between diet, the gut microbiome, and human health, with a focus on populations at risk for food insecurity and chronic disease. We are working on a study right now that will examine the impact of nutrition education and cooking classes on individuals' overall health and well-being.
Tell us about a part of your college experience that wasn't what you thought it was going to be.
I did not expect to enjoy class outside of my major as much as I have. The classes that have been the furthest outside of my comfort zone have turned out to be some of my favorite so far. I have especially enjoyed my honors classes.