Meet Vishal Patel who is a nutritionist working for Nuun Hydration. When you combine your passion for fitness with your love of nutrition, you can get the best of both worlds. Read on to learn more about his exciting career path. – Sarah

What attracted you to the field of fitness and exercise? I grew up as a very active child, I was always running everywhere, around the house to school wherever. But what truly got me to pursue fitness, exercise, and health as a profession was seeing that many members of my family struggled to maintain and improve health. Therefore, I felt like it was my duty to help them.

Your Job Title: Chief Nutritionist

Company you are with now: Nuun Hydration

Website: www.nuunlife.com

Social Media:
– Twitter: @vishalpatel__    
– Instagram: @vishalpatel__

A typical (or not so typical) day in the work-life for you: Conducting benchwork R&D on new products, assisting customer service with any product or nutrition related questions, writing blogs, overseeing quality assurance of production, and FDA legal/compliance oversight.

How did you get your current job in fitness and exercise? When I was a sophomore in college, I saw a posting on our university (Iowa State) job board, seeking a brand ambassador for a new hydration company. One thing lead to another, and seven years later I’m still here.

What skills were you born with and what skills have you learned along the way? A skill I felt like I was born with is my work ethic. Any task or job I get asked to do, I go all in, and get a laser-like focus. A skill I picked up along the way is my patience, especially when it comes to commercial product launches. Only worry about what’s in your control.

What advice do you have for others wanting to be just as successful and fulfilled as you? Ask questions, seek information, never stop learning, and most importantly, network! You’ll never know who you’ll meet at whatever job you may have, and that impression can make a big impact on your future.

If you could be paid for your job with something other than a paycheck, what  would it be? Satisfaction that I’m helping athletes achieve their goals.

Sarah Koszyk, MA, RDN, is a Registered Dietitian and Sports Nutritionist specializing in Weight Management and Sports Nutrition for youth and adults. She writes articles for multiple publications, provides customized nutrition coaching, and is a brand spokesperson. She is founder of Family. Food. Fiesta.Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, or LinkedIn.