''I was always interested in fitness and nutrition,'' Gidus says. ''My family was very supportive of my decision to go into the medical field and especially into nutrition and exercise.''
"I was an athlete growing up and tried to eat right and read a lot about nutrition," she recalls. "My dream was to work with professional athletes to help them with their diets."
As for her dream, Gidus has finally achieved it. She has just started her position as the dietitian for the Orlando Magic.
Gidus graduated from Purdue University, double majoring in dietetics and nutrition, fitness, and health. She received her master's degree from Purdue in health promotion. Gidus "was involved in a few clubs, mainly the Food and Nutrition Society and Eta Sigma Gamma, a health association."
After going through a 10-month internship, Gidus worked for a hospital for five years in a "unique program."
"The program was an executive health program where executives would come in for a full day of health testing. I also oversaw clinical research projects," Gidus says.
Three years ago, Gidus started her own company, Tara Gidus Nutrition Consulting. "I have had many unique consulting jobs, working with companies such as Tupperware, Disney, some health companies, the Orlando Magic, and a lot of individual clients including several professional athletes," Gidus elaborates.
Gidus is a national spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association. She is also the "Diet Diva" on a national morning TV show called The Daily Buzz.
Married, Gidus is now a mother to a four-month-old son, Basil. She says that she keeps busy and that her life has consisted of communicating with healthcare professionals.
"I always make sure I network with people at every event I go to. I keep contact information from people I meet because you never know when you may be able to call on them again for something," she says. "I try to learn something valuable from every job and experience I have."
Gidus enjoys approaching colleagues for new ideas to further her knowledge in the field.
| Q. What do you do for fun? A. I love to run and have run seven marathons and countless half marathons, 10K's, etc. Q. What CD is in your CD player right now? A. I am a sappy Neil Diamond fan. Q. What is the last magazine you read? A. Runner's World. Q. What is your favorite TV show? A. Gray's Anatomy. Q. Who is your role model? A. Oprah. Q. Your favorite ice cream flavor? A. Ben and Jerry's Phish Food. |
"I have looked up to many other dietitians and business people," she confesses. "I often will ask to take a colleague to lunch to try to learn about what they do and how we may be able to work together and help each other out."
Gidus says that she is most proud of her accomplishments within her own company, but she advises future healthcare professionals to stay connected with their peers.
"Don't burn any bridges. If a job doesn't work out, leave peacefully and don't badmouth anyone because you never know how connected everyone is, and it may come back to haunt you," Gidus recommends. She also says a great way to get involved is with "local associations in your field."
"Sign up to volunteer and take office positions," she says. "You will get to know people, and more importantly, people will know you and know that you are willing to work hard. Ask a lot of questions and try to learn as much as you can from others."
