Fall is my favorite season! Not only because of the pumpkins and apple cider, but also because the craziness of summer is winding down, and I can ground myself and focus on important networking opportunities. Although the daily struggle of schoolwork and studying feels all-consuming at times, it is crucial to focus energy on networking and opportunities to continue growing as a future physician.

This past week was Complementary and Alternative Medicine Day, which was a great opportunity to meet different vendors such as Aligned Modern Health, NCMIC and Standard Process, to name a few. Many of these vendors were handing out free samples of different products, as well as research, such as, “The Role of Glutathione in Immune and Respiratory Health.”

The many research articles and information regarding the different vendors is invaluable in gaining an insight into potential opportunities upon graduation. There are also chiropractic conventions held throughout the year by the Illinois Chiropractic society that cover a variety of useful topics. Not only are these events massive learning opportunities, but they give a student the ability to meet and make connections with chiropractors across the state. Also, there are a variety of certifications that a student can receive that can help them broaden their scope of practice or specialize in a certain population of patients. Some examples of certifications are internal medicine or acupuncture certifications. And last, there are a variety of speakers who come to NUHS with diverse topics that benefit students greatly. There are many ways for a student to grow, not only in knowledge, but in connections and options prior to graduation.