CHHS Alumni Spotlight Q+A: Brittany Dawn Jim
Throughout the 2026–2027 academic year, the College of Health and Human Services (CHHS) will spotlight alumni who represent the wide range of academic and professional journeys pursued by its graduates. The alumni spotlight series will highlight their experiences, motivations, accomplishments, and interests, while showcasing how their NAU education continues to influence their careers and contributions to the health and well-being of individuals and communities. Todays featured alumni is Brittany Dawn Jim, a Northern Arizona University graduate who earned her degree in 2025.
What is your hometown?
Tuba City, Arizona
When did you graduate from NAU?
2025.
Please list your major/program, minor(s), and any certificates.
Master of Public Health – Nutrition, Bachelors Degree for Exercise Science Physiology, Associates Degree for Liberal Arts.
What is your current job title and employer?
Tuba City Regional Healthcare Corporation.
What are the most challenging and most rewarding parts of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is working with my patients and witnessing their successes through the simple implementation of nutrition guidance provided through medical nutrition therapy. It’s fulfilling to see patients return for follow-up visits, see them meet their goals, and improve their overall health, even if it’s something as simple as seeing their A1c decrease.
I also work in the clinical inpatient setting, where I have had many memorable experiences. One that stands out was caring for a patient who was critically ill. Enteral nutrition was initiated, and although his condition and outcomes initially did not look promising, he eventually stabilized and began to improve with the support of appropriate nutrition therapy. After he was discharged, I ran into him a few weeks later. He greeted me with a huge hug, a big smile, and a heartfelt thank you. That moment touched my heart and reminded me of the purpose behind the work that I do.
As a Registered Dietitian, I have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives, sometimes through big interventions and other times through small ones. Knowing that the nutrition care and guidance I provide can contribute to someone’s health and well-being is rewarding to me personally and reminds me that I am serving a greater purpose.
How did your education at NAU prepare you for your career?
The NAU College of Health and Human Services prepared me for my career as a Registered Dietitian by providing me with the education, tools, and strong foundation necessary to provide evidence based Medical Nutrition Therapy. The program was rigorous and challenging, but it also provided a high level of education and professional preparation that is essential for success in the field of dietetics.
Although I am still relatively new to the profession, I was able to confidently navigate and adapt to my first role as an Inpatient Clinical Dietitian. I attribute this to the strong foundation, training, and confidence I gained through my coursework, professors, preceptors, and mentors at NAU. The knowledge and skills I developed throughout the program prepared me to transition into practice, apply evidence-based nutrition care, and continue growing as a Registered Dietitian.
What is one piece of advice you wish you had known prior to entering the workforce?
My advice for students entering the workforce is to recognize that starting your career can be nerve racking and intimidating. There are many complex patient cases and situations to manage, and it can sometimes feel as though you are expected to know everything right away.
The good news is that you are not alone in feeling this way. Give yourself time to learn, grow, and gain confidence. There is always something new to learn and new skills to develop, especially in the field of dietetics. The opportunities for professional growth and continued learning are endless.
My advice is to do your best, ask questions, remain open to learning, and trust in the knowledge and skills you have gained. Most importantly, be confident in yourself, and your ability to grow into your role. You do not have to know everything on your first day, you just have to be willing to learn.
As a Diné person, I have learned that my life experiences, both the good and difficult, shape who I am. I never imagined that I would become an RD, but looking back, I realize that every experience, challenge, and opportunity along my journey contributed to who I am today. Who you are, where you come from, and your individual identity are unique to you. Those experiences and perspectives are strengths that you can bring into this profession. They can shape the way you connect with patients, understand their experiences, and provide compassionate, patient centered care.
Most importantly, have confidence in yourself and in what you bring to the profession. If you have a goal, take action on your thoughts and put your plans into motion. Believe in your ability to succeed. Your journey does not have to look like anyone else’s. What matters is that you continue learning, remain committed to your purpose, and use your unique experiences and strengths to provide high quality care to the people who place their trust in your guidance. Ultimately, that is what matters most.
