Learning experiences

 

I am a Registered Dietitian, having recently completed my master’s degree at the University of Southern California in nutrition, healthspan, and longevity. I had the pleasure of having Dr. Vicinanza instruct my Macronutrients and Micronutrients classes at USC. He was a wonderful professor both in the expertise and knowledge he afforded us, but also in the support he provided and genuine interest he had in our success. His thorough explanations helped us to understand difficult concepts and his sense of humor made his classes enjoyable. He provided us with valuable feedback on research papers and class presentations as well as making himself available should we need further instruction. I was also lucky enough to have Dr. Vicinanza advise me in preparing my capstone project regarding phytonutrient supplementation in patients with ulcerative colitis. He provided me with guidance in determining the scope of my literature review and helped me to perfect my review article. I hope to have the opportunity to work with Dr. Vicinanza again in the future.

Laura Kauffman, MS, RDN.

Los Angeles, California

 

I first met Dr. Roberto Vicinanza when I was a 5th year medical student and I was looking for a tutor to help me with my project for my degree thesis. Although at the time Dr. Vicinanza was still a geriatric resident, he was already an independent physician and investigator. His enthusiasm was contagious and he has always encouraged me to improve my skills and strive to become the best version of myself. Dr. Vicinanza is a true leader and a great role model. I am currently a resident physician in Geriatric Medicine at Agostino Gemelli University Polyclinic of the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore in Rome. I am very thankful for many of the principles that Dr. Vicinanza instilled in me that have been fundamental for my growth and have made me a better physician. Dr. Vicinanza served as my mentor and was the first instructor to introduce me to the concept of the holistic vision of the geriatric patient, the rudiments of the clinic, and taught me how to set up a research project. Dr.Vicinanza is creative, charismatic, inspirational, and a motivator. Thanks to his method, I graduated with my degree in medicine (M.D.) with full marks. I was lucky to be able to publish two academic works with him and to this day we are still collaborating on some clinical research projects.

Alessandro Frizza, MD. Resident in Geriatrics

Rome, Italy

 

I work as a clinical and sports dietitian at a county hospital, county jail, and for the Major League Baseball team. Dr. Vicinanza’s class on macronutrients and micronutrients laid the foundation for the nutrition knowledge that I use in my career every day. His expertise in nutrition combined with his background as a physician led to a more in-depth understanding of metabolism. I was fortunate to work with Dr. Vicinanza on my master level capstone project at USC. Under his tutelage, I improved my academic writing and learned how to use a statistical program to analyze large amounts of data which allowed me to present my capstone findings on body composition parameters and IGF-I in older adults for the California Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics conference. Dr. Vicinanza is extremely supportive of his students’ interests and always finds ways he can create an atmosphere for their success. He encourages intellectual curiosity and brings positive energy and enthusiasm to our classes and projects. Working with him has enriched my life and led me to the career path where I am at today.

John Lew, MS, RD.

Oakland, California

 

I have just completed the program of Medical Gerontology, and I took two classes that Dr. Vicinanza taught – Prevention of Chronic disease through nutrition, physical activity and lifestyle changes and Multiple chronic diseases and older adults. This is such a precious experience since I did not have plenty medical background, and Dr. Vicinanza help me get through the hardest start. He showed so much patience and passion with equal profession to teach us the knowledge in a humorous way. I am so grateful to had him as my professor. He was always supportive when we have questions and gave us the best resources he can provide. The classes he offered will always be a memorable experience and will continue to bring me positive influences.

Yixin Tan, MAMG

Shanghai, China