Since I started my foodservice rotation with Chartwells two weeks ago, I have had nothing but a pleasant experience. This rotation is a part of my Dietetics Internship program which has been occurring virtually due to the pandemic. However, I am very thankful for Chartwells for accepting me as an intern during this unprecedented time and provided me with the opportunity to obtain some in-person experience. I was very impressed with the team’s organization regarding assisting me with my internship. Before starting the rotation, I received an email from the resident’s district manager, Mr. Paul Johnson, which contained an excel sheet with all the activities and the name of the staff members I needed to reach out to gather the necessary information for each assignment. His thoughtful action helped me to have a better understanding of the staff members responsibilities before meeting them and gave me an understanding of the dynamic of the facility, yet it facilitated the information gathering process.
This rotation has helped me experience and appreciate the importance of an efficient team to build a functional organization in foodservice. Even though I have been at Florida International University (FIU) for years now, I never fully realized all the work and effort required to offer a high-quality service especially during this time that requires extraordinary food handling precautions with the risk of spreading COVID-19 ever looming. I have witnessed this team making every effort to ensure all the necessary actions are made to meet the protocols regarding food safety while serving food to the students and faculty members on campus. This rotation not only is helping me learn the behind the scene procedures in food service, but it also gave me an understanding of the importance of good team management skills even during an unusual time. The Chartwells family at FIU have been extremely helpful throughout this process and they have been patiently explaining different plans, policies, and the flow of the workplace as well as answering my endless questions. During this rotation I had also had the opportunity to be involved in a catering process for a football game at FIU which has been a unique experience for me. In addition, I have had the chance to closely work with Lydia, Josue, Renata, Alejandro, and Edmond who have been very generous with sharing their knowledge and experience and have been walking me through everything I need to know.
Additionally, after speaking to my Dietetic Internship Director, Dr. Enrione, she stated that the Department of Dietetics and Nutrition is grateful to Mr. Paul Johnson and Chartwells for the support they have given our program during the pandemic especially with limited resources. It has provided a fantastic opportunity for our intern, Padideh, and we look forward to continuing the relationship in the future.