Student Corner Interview

Ashley Harpst, BS
Dietetic Intern, Emory University
Recreational Surfer

Ashley, tell us yourself, your background, and your education.
I graduated from San Diego State University with a BS Degree in Foods and Nutrition. I love to surf. I also play soccer, roller blade, and I fence.

Why did you choose the dietetic internship at Emory University and why has this been a good match for you?
I chose the Emory University Hospital Dietetic Internship because this internship has a well respected clinical nutrition care program. This internship is challenging, but I am enjoying it because each rotation is unique and stimulating. I would like to do my elective rotation at Georgia Tech and work with the athletes. Lastly, the preceptors are very knowledgeable and supportive.

How did you become interested in nutrition in general and nutrition as a profession?
This career particularly appealed to me because my mother consulted with a registered dietitian when she had open heart surgery. The dietitian explained how a healthy diet could prevent chronic diseases. This was a critical moment in my life. My mother’s lifestyle had to change and becoming more knowledgeable about nutrition was very important to me so I could help her live a healthy life.

How did you become interested in surfing and the nutritional aspects of surfing?
I have been surfing recreationally for seven years. This sport appealed to me because it is challenging and it helps me relax. I became interested in the nutritional aspects of surfing because I wanted to help the competitive surfers in San Diego enhance their performance and I wanted to improve my own physical performance.

What are the physiological demands of surfing?
Surfing requires endurance, strength, and speed. The most energy is used paddling out. The shore break and currents change everyday, which make paddling difficult. Surfers also use a lot of energy trying to catch a wave because they must paddle fast enough to match the speed of the wave. Lastly, the combination of the salt water and the sun can cause dehydration and exhaustion.

How do you prepare nutritionally for surfing?
I follow a specific diet to help me prepare for this challenging sport. I eat a high calorie meal the night before I surf so that I have enough energy to surf for at least 4 hours. For example, for dinner I consume a cup of spaghetti with a ½ cup of meat sauce, 2 slices of whole wheat bread, 1 corn on the cob, a cup of low-fat fruit-flavored yogurt, and I drink a cup of non-fat milk. This meal is about 1250 calories and is high in carbohydrates (bread, pasta, milk, and corn). I avoid fatty foods such as french fries, pizza, and ice cream because these foods take longer to digest and convert to energy. Carbohydrates are the best source of energy for high-intensity activities.

In the morning, I eat a low calorie meal (300-500 calories) to avoid discomfort while I am surfing. I bring snacks that are moderate in carbohydrates and also contain protein. These foods convert quickly to energy. I surf about an hour and then take a 15-minute break. During my break I drink a one cup of water, 1½ cups of Gatorade, and eat a medium banana. It is important to drink water, but unlike water, sports drinks provide carbohydrates to enhance performance and electrolytes to replace losses. I eat several small snacks and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to give me the energy I need to hang ten and prevent dehydration. This sport requires a lot of preparation and can be exhausting. Eating right and preparing ahead can make surfing an awesome experience. The euphoria I feel when I catch a wave makes all of preparation worthwhile.

Once you become a registered dietitian, what are your professional goals? Are you interested in becoming Board Certified as a Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD), the new CDR specialty credential?
I would like to work in clinical dietetics part-time, become a personal trainer, and counsel athletes. I have an advantage because being an athlete helps me to bond with athletes. Yes, I am interested in becoming Board Certified as a Specialist in Sports Dietetics.

Is there anything else you would like to share with other students?
If you have the opportunity to do your internship out-of-state. Do it! Get out of your comfort zone! I am moving back to San Diego, California, when I graduate, but I am enjoying exploring and living in a different state.

Contact Ashley Harpst at: eat4sprts@aol.com

12/06/06