March 15, 2022
Story by Joe Vinduska
Courtesy photos submitted
Barton Online Student Michelle Nezolosky of New York dreams of one day being on the “Today Show” sharing all her knowledge about the good work that is being done in the field of dietetics. First things first; she is seeking to establish credibility by obtaining her Registered Dietitian credential.
Nezolosky is pursuing a dietetics degree from Kansas State University while also taking Barton Online classes to speed up the process and save money. She said she has found everything she is looking for to help supplement her university classes through Barton Online’s offerings.
“My interactions with Barton instructors have been fantastic,” she said. “All instructors I have worked with have been incredibly responsive, friendly, and caring. Taking courses through Barton should help my graduation timeline immensely. I can take an eight-week course really at any time throughout the academic semesters. Taking three courses at Barton Online has already saved me approximately $3,000.”
Already holding two degrees, Nezolosky understands the value of efficiency on her educational journey so she can begin doing the real work she is passionate about as soon as possible. She decided to switch careers after eight years in cancer research and is eager to get started.
“I would like to graduate faster so I can utilize my degree and clinical license sooner,” she said. “One of the many things that the pandemic has taught us is that now, more than ever, we all really need to take care of ourselves. Many people I know are in dire need of mental and/or physical health resources. I want to educate people on how dietetics plays an integral role in self-care. Eating well leads to overall better mental and physical health.”
Nezolosky said the flexibility and relaxed nature of online classes is something that really appeals to her.
“Online coursework allows me to be in the driver’s seat of my education,” she said. “It allows me to do what works best for me in terms of my learning experience and overall education. If I wake up and feel like staying in workout clothes all day to study, which I do often, then I can do just that.”
Nezolosky hopes to open her own private practice someday and open up a line of grocery stores within communities in NYC.
“I am really passionate about improving access to health resources at the individual and the community level,” she said. “On an individual level, I want to educate people on eating to improve health and manage disease. Within the community, I want to improve access to healthy foods within under-resourced communities. The grocery stores would carry highly discounted healthy foods.”
For more information about Barton Online, visit online.bartonccc.edu.