DICAS Application Support (DAS) Program- Volunteer Information

Please take a moment to read the following information in it’s entirety. we promise it’s a little long for a good reason.

We know that the DICAS application and match process can be one of the biggest obstacles for students of color who are trying to obtain their RDN credential. Supporting the students of our Community to successfully navigate this necessary milestone of the dietetics educational pathway is critical to diversifying our profession.

We are seeking dietetics educators and professionals volunteers who are ready and willing to support the students through the DICAS Application process. The DAS program is offered at no charge for all students of color, so our DAS program volunteers are a critical component of this program.

Am I a good fit to be a DAS Program Volunteer?

An effective DAS program volunteer should be familiar with recent DICAS match process requirements. Ideal volunteers are nutrition and dietetics educators and programs directors of dietetics internships and
DPD programs. Practicing or retired professionals who are very familiar with the DICAS match process and who are able to provide accurate and effective guidance for DICAS applicants also eligible to apply to volunteer.

What else are you looking for in a DAS program volunteer?

Our Community is comprised of students that represent marginalized racial and ethnic groups. It is our duty to provide our students a safe and protected space in the dietetics profession. It is required that all DAS program volunteers are committed to identifying and working to manage their own unconscious biases and microagressive thoughts and behaviors related to working with students of color.

We ask that, no matter their race or ethnicity, all Diversify Dietetics Volunteers read the following article before deciding to apply to volunteer in work with the Dietetics Community: Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack.

This article is by no means a completion of the personal work mentioned above, but an introduction to the realities that the students of our Community are facing, and to why we require that volunteers are committed to working on their own thoughts and behaviors towards their inherent privileges.

I have read this work, and am unsure if I am a good fit as a volunteer at this time. What should I do next?

We appreciate your candor and personal reflection. We would suggest considering this resource to continue your work, and we encourage you to apply to volunteer at a future time, when you feel ready.

I am committed to supporting the students in an equitable, supportive and culturally humble way. But I’ll be honest- i don’t have a lot of time. can I still participate?

Yes! We understand that you are busy, and appreciate your time. For this program, we do ask that volunteers be willing to commit up to 3 hours per month to work with a student through the match cycle (approximately late April 2022). You can review the match cycle schedule for Spring 2022 match here.

Ok, I can do that! Where do I sign up?

Thank you for your support! Please complete the form below and we’ll be in touch soon to connect you to your DAS Program Student!