UNF alum promotes health and wellness as campus dietitian

Sierra James, RDN, LDN, Dining Services, says she enjoys the opportunity to help students, faculty and staff gain better insight on nutrition, wellness and sustainability. And, the UNF grad said it's gratifying to be working at the University that helped carve her career path. 

Describe a typical workday for you?
A typical day will often consist of one-on-one nutrition counseling with students, faculty and staff. My days often involve planning for and facilitating outreach and events that I do all around campus to promote nutrition, health, wellness and sustainability. A day may also consist of café tours, guest speaking engagements, staff trainings and working with dietetic interns as their preceptor.
 
What led you to this opportunity at UNF?
As a UNF grad, I was excited for the opportunity to work at the university that helped me on my path of becoming a dietitian. When I saw this position come up, I jumped at the chance to be a part of this awesome team at UNF!
 
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Whether it’s a counseling session or interacting with students at tabling events, I’m passionate about working with the students to help them navigate the sometimes confusing, space of nutrition and health.
 
What energizes you at work?
I get energized when I’m at events interacting with all our awesome students.
 
What’s a work-related accomplishment you’re proud of?
I’m proud of my recent expansion into other schools. Through outreach, I am now providing one-on-one virtual counseling with students at various universities around Florida. This has allowed me to provide nutrition-related guidance to students that would otherwise not have this service available to them.
 
If you could change one thing about your job, what would it be?
I would love to spend more time doing one-on-one counseling as I feel this is the best way to make a significant impact.
 
What do you like to do outside of work?
I love to do anything that takes me outdoors like biking, walking, hiking and relaxing at the beach.
 
What was your first job?
My first job was working as a bagger at Publix.
 
What’s the best advice you’ve been given?
To always remember that, “this too shall pass.” This has helped me get through many tough times.
 
Who inspires you and why?
My parents have always been an inspiration to me. They worked so hard to provide a loving, fun and magical childhood for me and my siblings that helped shape me into who I am today.
 
What’s your favorite thing to do on weekends?
Spend time with my family and friends.
 
What’s the top destination on your must-visit list?
New Zealand
 
What is one thing about you that others may not know?
I am a BIG animal lover! I have two cats and a dog, but if it were up to me, I would have a whole farm.