Student Stories: Rocio Ann Marquez

Student Stories: Rocio Ann Marquez
Posted on 12/07/2020
This is the image for the news article titled Student Stories: Rocio Ann MarquezMy name is Rocio Ann Marquez and I will soon graduate from Arizona State University's College of Health Solutions. I am half Pima/Hopi and half Mexican. Life has me blessed with a supportive husband, a stepson (14), and two highly spirited daughters (7 & 4). I like to think of myself as a happy and positive person. I love food (I have a culinary degree) and enjoy working out when I have the time. Oh, and I love taking pictures of my everyday life to keep as memories.

What will you be earning your degree in? Bachelor of Science in Dietetics

What was your capstone project?
For our Capstone, my team had to run ASU’s Kitchen Café for a service completely on our own. In order to be ready for our big production day, we first had to obtain our ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification. Then, we had to come up with a menu that included a nutrition component, convert the recipes into standardized recipes (w/ food safety and sanitation notes), develop food costs, order all goods and supplies through a food service distribution company, market our menu, and create a production sheet for our employees (students).

I was very lucky to have two of my Native friends in the class and we partnered up to create a "high-fiber, Indigenous-infused" menu for the public to enjoy and it was fittingly so, since it was Native American Heritage Month!

What did you take away from your capstone?
I learned so many components of running a food service operation. This is valuable to me, since I may have to run a cafeteria (school, hospital, etc.) as a Registered Dietitian.

What are your plans after undergrad?
I am planning on taking the DTR (Dietitian Technician Registered) test in February 2021 to help boost my chances of getting into the master’s program at ASU or getting into an internship, both of which start in the fall of 2021.

After obtaining my credentials to become an RDN (Registered Dietitian Nutritionist), I plan on gaining some experience, yet my main goal is to work for the tribe! (Please hire me!!! 😊)

As a soon to be graduate of 2020, share a recommendation or advice to new undergrads:
I thought I was too dumb for college, so I never went after high school - not until 10 years later. I did it while growing a family, and it has taken me six years to earn my bachelor’s degree with honors (3.96 GPA). I’ve accomplished something I never thought I was capable of doing!

Whatever doubts you have about yourself, DO NOT LET THEM HOLD YOU BACK. It’s okay to be scared or uncertain; during the process you will work through these uncomfortable feelings. Anything you want for yourself is possible if you push past your fears and put in the work! I also highly encourage reading/listening to self-help books for encouragement, motivation, and to help squash those doubts!

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