Amidst the Fall ambiance (well, as much “Fall” as one can expect in sunny, warm Florida) and the aroma of seasonal Starbucks spices, I find myself in a pensive state, embracing the spirit of Thanksgiving. This season serves as a reminder to express gratitude for the invaluable experiences and individuals that have shaped my journey. In the world of chiropractic education, each milestone is an opportunity for humble reflection. I’ve had the chance to glance back through old pictures throughout the trimesters and I can’t help but feel utter gratefulness for all my experiences. I’ve had wonderful knowledgeable professors, made fantastic life-long friends, earned an invaluable education and had the opportunity to preceptor at a great clinic.

Left: Alex pauses for a moment during another busy day in her preceptorship. Right: Alex fine tunes her palpation skills on her preceptor, Dr. Micah Richeson!

Beyond textbooks and lectures, this hands-on preceptorship has deepened my appreciation for the interconnectedness of theory and practice in the field of chiropractic care. I am thankful for the patients who entrusted me with their well-being during my time at the NUHS clinic and at my preceptorship, allowing me to apply my knowledge in a real-world context. Their cases have been invaluable learning opportunities, fostering a sense of responsibility and empathy that transcends the academic realm. Having the chance to improve taking X-ray images and enhancing my analyzation skills to discuss report of findings with patients and my preceptor has been one of my highlights throughout the preceptorship. Completing this preceptorship at Cypress Creek Chiropractic and Wellness is not just a personal achievement, but a stepping stone in the continuous journey of refining skills, honing clinical judgment and embodying the principles of evidence-based chiropractic care.

As I reflect on this season of gratitude, I extend my thanks to my community, mentors, colleagues and friends who have been integral to my growth as a chiropractor, of being part of a profession dedicated to enhancing the well-being of others.

Meet some of National University’s Doctor of Chiropractic alumni here.