Program Overview

Dietetic Internship Program

The Dietetic Internship Program at San Francisco State University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education and training in the field of dietetics. The program is committed to empowering individuals to take control of their health through evidence-based nutrition and real whole foods.

Program Overview

The program is led by a team of experienced professionals, including Melanie Alameda, Julia Burmenko, Nick Chavez, Jaden Cook, Destiny Duarte, Krissy Freeman, Cindy Gee, Michelle Golder, Hayoung Kim, Holly Lehr, Jenna Miller, Sahand Soltani-Nobakht, Megan Raphael, and Lauren Weaver. Each of these individuals brings their unique expertise and passion for nutrition and dietetics to the program.

Program Details

• Melanie Alameda: A dynamic and passionate professional with a unique blend of expertise in both the arts and sciences. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Music and a Bachelor's degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from the University of Arizona, as well as a Master's degree in Music from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.
• Julia Burmenko: Graduated summa cum laude from San Francisco State University in 2024 with a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics. She developed a strong foundation in food service operations, safe food handling, and customer service during her undergraduate studies.
• Nick Chavez: Completed his Associate's Degree at Diablo Valley College and graduated from San Francisco State University in May of 2025 with a BS in Nutrition and Dietetics. He has many areas he'd like to explore in the field of Dietetics, including clinical, dialysis, corporate wellness, sports nutrition, and private practice.
• Jaden Cook: Graduated summa cum laude with a B.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics in 2025 from San Francisco State University. He developed a passion for the relationship between food and human performance, which culminated in becoming the president of the sports nutrition branch of the Student Nutrition and Dietetics Association at SFSU.
• Destiny Duarte: Earned her Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics with a concentration in science and a minor in counseling from San Francisco State University. She is particularly focused on the clinical aspect of dietetics, with a strong interest in working with individuals with type 2 diabetes.
• Krissy Freeman: Graduated cum laude from San Francisco State University in 2025 with a B.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics. She aims to create meaningful connections and promote well-being by integrating her passion for hospitality, community, and nutrition.
• Cindy Gee: Had a seven-year career in finance and accounting before re-evaluating her goals to focus on helping others live healthier lives. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics at San Francisco State University, summa cum laude, as a postbaccalaureate student.
• Michelle Golder: Graduated Summa Cum Laude from San Francisco State University in 2025, with a B.S. in Nutrition & Dietetics and a minor in Public Health. Her long-term career goal is to work at San Francisco General Hospital, where she can support recovering and sick patients with nutritious meals that aid in healing.
• Hayoung Kim: Graduated summa cum laude from San Francisco State University in 2025 with a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics. His journey into the field of nutrition was shaped by his passion for helping others and his diverse background in healthcare.
• Holly Lehr: Began the dietetic internship after graduating magna cum laude from San Francisco State University with a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics and Nutrition. She views nutrition as a primary way to prevent disease, effectively manage disease, and foster personal wellness.
• Jenna Miller: Graduated from San Francisco State University in 2025 with a B.S in Nutrition and Dietetics. She has diverse experience working as a physical therapy aide and has a background in retail management, which helped strengthen her leadership, management, and customer service skills.
• Sahand Soltani-Nobakht: Has worked as a classical music performer and educator for many years. He graduated from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music with a Bachelor of Music (B.M.) and developed a keen interest in the field of Nutrition and Dietetics.
• Megan Raphael: Graduated summa cum laude with a BS in Nutrition and Dietetics from San Francisco State University in 2025. She also holds a BA in Environmental Studies, with a minor in Education, from UC Santa Cruz in 2012.
• Lauren Weaver: Graduated from Brigham Young University in 2024 with a B.S. in Dietetics and a minor in Gerontology. She gained experience in a variety of dietetics-related roles, including a cook at an extended living facility, a chart note volunteer at an outpatient clinic, and a nutrition educator at the Huntsman World Senior Games.