Anyiah Clemons is pursuing her bachelor of science in health sciences with a concentration in biological health science and a minor in nutrition.
Since Summer 2025, I have had the incredible opportunity to serve as a nutrition intern with the University of South Florida Athletics Department, supporting both the men's and women's basketball programs. This experience has allowed me to bridge the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world application while working alongside Division I student-athletes and sports performance professionals.
Under the guidance and mentorship of my supervisor, Jordyn Laufenburg, I have developed a deeper understanding of the vital role nutrition plays in athletic performance, recovery, injury prevention and overall well-being. Every day has presented new opportunities to grow professionally while contributing to the success of our student-athletes.
Hands-On Learning Experience
Throughout my internship, I have gained practical experience in a variety of areas, including:
- Assisting with pre- and post-workout nutrition preparation.
- Preparing individualized recovery shakes and fueling stations for athletes.
- Organizing and distributing nutritional supplements in accordance with program protocols.
- Supporting team meals and snack stations before practices, games and travel.
- Learning how to evaluate athletes' nutritional needs based on training demands.
- Observing the collaboration between sports dietitians, strength and conditioning coaches, athletic trainers and coaching staff.
- Reinforcing nutrition education to help athletes optimize performance both on and off the court.
- Assisting with ordering and stocking meals and nutritional supplies.
These responsibilities have strengthened my organizational skills, attention to detail and ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced Division I athletic environment.
Growing Beyond the Basics
Beyond the daily responsibilities, this internship has expanded my knowledge of sports nutrition in ways that cannot be learned solely from a textbook. Through mentorship and observation, I have gained insight into:
- Performance nutrition strategies for collegiate athletes.
- Proper hydration and electrolyte replacement techniques.
- Nutrient timing before, during and after competition.
- Recovery nutrition to maximize muscle repair and reduce fatigue.
- Individualized fueling plans based on an athlete's position, training load and performance goals.
- The importance of professionalism, adaptability and communication within a high-performance sports environment.
Working alongside experienced professionals has reinforced the importance of evidence-based nutrition practices while emphasizing the impact that proper fueling has on athletic success.
Professional Development
One of the most rewarding aspects of this experience has been learning directly from Jordyn Laufenburg. Her mentorship has challenged me to think critically, ask questions and continually expand my understanding of sports nutrition. She has provided opportunities for me to gain meaningful hands-on experience while encouraging my growth as an aspiring health care professional.
In addition to developing professionally, I have been grateful for the relationships I have built with the student-athletes and staff. This internship has given me opportunities to connect with athletes not only about their performance on the court, but also about life beyond basketball, including their goals, personal growth and everyday experiences. I have also appreciated being able to openly live out my faith through genuine conversations and encouragement, while building meaningful connections through shared interests, including exchanging music recommendations and getting to know one another on a more personal level.
During the Fall 2025 semester, I was involved in a rear-end collision that temporarily impacted my academics and required me to step away from my internship for about a month while I focused on physical therapy and recovery. By the time I returned in the spring, I came back better than ever—with a renewed sense of purpose, gratitude and determination to continue serving the athletes and making the most of every opportunity. This internship has strengthened my confidence in working with athletes and has affirmed my passion for combining nutrition, health sciences and sports medicine in my future career.
Looking Ahead
As I continue my internship, I remain committed to learning, serving and growing within the field of sports nutrition. Every practice, game and interaction with student-athletes has contributed to my professional development and has brought me one step closer to achieving my long-term goal of becoming a sports physical therapist who integrates evidence-based nutrition into athlete care.
I am incredibly grateful to the USF Athletics Department, the men's and women's basketball programs and Jordyn Laufenburg for investing in my development and providing an experience that has shaped both my professional journey and my passion for helping athletes perform at their highest potential.