By Spencer Poston, Student at University of Pittsburgh, PAND media team member
As many college students know, there seems to be a club for virtually every interest—and it’s no different at Drexel University in Philadelphia. One of the many clubs students are able to join is the Drexel Nutrition Association, known to members as “DNA.” Its president, Emily Lim, shared some unique aspects of the club that make it stand out among the rest.
The most unique aspect of DNA is that it really is for everyone; any university student is able to join, regardless of major. In fact, Emily says, the number of nutrition majors is actually small compared to those studying other subjects. This brings people of many backgrounds, interests, and strengths together to learn how nutrition can be the common thread that stitches together all of them. This year, DNA already has 69 undergraduate members who are there not only to learn about nutrition, but to pass along the information to the community. DNA’s volunteer outreach programs are another wonderful part of the organization. Helping at local schools, food banks, and nonprofits like the Metropolitan Area Neighborhood Nutrition Alliance allow members to gain valuable insight into the field and to see firsthand the power of nutrition education and service.
Emily herself was drawn to the club for these very reasons: its diverse membership, community involvement, and the way that learning about nutrition could influence her own health and wellbeing. After being involved for more than a year, she’s just moved into her current role as president. But she’s optimistic about what’s in store for DNA this semester. She wants to get members involved in deciding which projects they undertake, where they volunteer, and how to get people even more excited about food and nutrition. In other words, she wants the members to have a voice, and she hopes that they get just as much out of the club as they put into it. The club meets monthly to discuss common areas of interest, goals, and plans for the year, all led by Emily and the rest of her executive board. She hopes every member engages in an outreach experience he or she is passionate about, and that both Drexel and the surrounding communities benefit from DNA in some way. Keep an eye out for DNA members making a difference in their neighborhood this year!
