Micaela Serrano Alumni Spotlight
Alumni Spotlight

Why did you choose UK and the Dietetics program?
I have always had a love for science, food, and helping people. I also have a passion for sports, and knew I wanted to work within athletics. Being able to make a career out of my interests was exciting for me when I learned about becoming a registered dietitian and all the career options that were available. I knew that choosing to pursue a degree in dietetics at UK would set me up for success in serving people through nutrition and wellness. Not only did I receive high quality education, but I also had the opportunity to fast track my career through the UK Dietetics Coordinated Program. Along with this, there were numerous opportunities to gain hands-on experience throughout campus.
Tell us about your time here such as a favorite class, memory, or experience.
Being an intern with Monica Fowler in UK Performance Nutrition was the best memory and experience that I had while at UK. I was able to apply what I was learning in the classroom to working with athletes on campus. Interning with Mrs. Fowler also provided me the opportunity to intern with the sports dietitian at the Kansas City Royals where I assisted in the minor league organization. At UK I served as the Vice President for the UK Student Dietetic Nutrition Association and was a Shift Captain for UK Campus Kitchens.
What were your next steps after graduation?
A month after I graduated, I was hired at my community rotation site by my preceptor, Emily Artner, at the University of Louisville. There, I gained on the field experience while traveling with the UofL football team throughout the season. During my time as a seasonal, I passed my RD exam and was excited to finally become a registered dietitian.
What is your career like now and how does your BS in Dietetics support your current position and/or just life in general?
I currently work as a full-time sports dietitian with the football team at the University of Louisville alongside the Director of Football Nutrition, Emily Artner. During the football season I am the lead sports dietitian fueling our athletes on the sideline, as well as coordinating nutritional needs when the team travels for away games. In the off-season I help fuel our athletes during spring and summer training. I love being a part of the health and performance team here at UofL, the staff has been incredible and has become family for me. The best part of my journey is seeing how far I have grown in my career as a sports dietitian while working at what was my original rotation site. Louisville has become home for me in so many ways, but I will always cherish the experiences that I had while at the University of Kentucky.
Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition
204 Funkhouser Building
Lexington, KY 40506
859-257-3800

