B.S. in Dietetics student, President of the Food & Nutrition club

“Cheerleading Nutrition”

Hailey McKie traded in beach views for lush pines when she transplanted from Deerfield Beach, Florida to become a Life University (Life U) Dietetics student. To understand the thought process leading up to that momentous decision, let’s back up to McKie’s high school days as a bubbly cheerleader full of optimism and a sunny attitude toward her future. However, beneath that bright exterior, McKie began to notice the growing concerns among her teammates – obsessions with weight, calorie cutting and behaviors that, if unchecked, could lead to disordered eating or even eating disorders.”

The growing problem related to unhealthy weight fixation eventually inspired McKie to want to pursue a dietetics degree to specialize in eating disorder prevention and intervention. In particular, she sees the need for education and protections for athletes related to promoting healthy eating habits. Then, when it came time to find a college home after high school graduation, Life U seemed a natural choice, as McKie had already been introduced to the campus by a cousin who was studying to become a chiropractor there at that time in 2023.

“I love how quiet it is, but it is also very close-knit. I like how everybody is very friendly and friends, and they’re joyful all the time. They’re very happy to be there. And I just love the positive attitude that’s around campus,” McKie said.

Since becoming a Life U Running Eagle, McKie has made a point to get involved and share the joy of healthy, delicious food. She was tapped to be the President of the Food & Nutrition club, as the club is going through a bit of a transformational phase to better appeal to and serve the student body.

“I would really like to see everybody come and enjoy themselves, you know, through food. I think food can also be a way to bring people together and educate nutrition as well with it. So, I’m really hoping that we have a lot of fun in doing everything together and just kind of bringing everybody together,” McKie said.

When asked for any advice she might have for new or upcoming college students, she simply said to “have fun and be good to yourself, because any type of major can get very stressful. So just always remember to take time for yourself and just listen.”

Faces of LIFE is a story campaign that showcases members of the dynamic Life U community, including faculty/staff, students, alumni and health science professionals. Interested in being featured or nominating a candidate? We want to hear from you! Email Marketing@life.edu. Read more Faces of LIFE stories.