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Finding Your Niche in Chiropractic

by Mar 21, 2025

Home » Chiropractic Medicine Student Blog - Illinois » Finding Your Niche in Chiropractic

In recent years, the field of chiropractic has expanded into areas never seen before. Chiropractors are now making an impact in lots of spaces—pediatrics, nutrition, animal care, women’s health, functional medicine, orthopedics and beyond. As a student, navigating these various paths can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you choose to focus on musculoskeletal rehab or venture into a more unconventional area of chiropractic, your time as a student is filled with opportunities to discover your passion.

As someone who is about halfway through the program, I cannot stress enough the importance of getting involved in clubs. The school is full of students who have already begun extracurricular training and personal research in specific niches. These clubs often have connections with practicing doctors who offer invaluable knowledge, guidance and even hands-on experience that can help you find your direction.

As you progress in your studies, it’s essential to explore different avenues and figure out what truly sparks your interest. This process requires honest reflection on your personal goals and passions. For me, the classes in neurology and visceral anatomy fueled my desire to pursue functional neurology and functional medicine. Talking to fellow students who shared similar interests was incredibly helpful in solidifying my path, so I mean it when I say those connections are so impactful!

I encourage students to take a moment to reflect on the subjects or topics that have captivated them most throughout the program. Once you identify those interests, seek out related clubs or student groups. If a club doesn’t exist, reach out to professors who may know of alumni working in those fields. Connecting with past students, even just to hear about their experiences, can provide valuable insight and guidance.

Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. You might discover a passion you never expected. Remember, whatever path you choose, your dedication, knowledge and preparation will set you apart and help you make a meaningful impact in the field of chiropractic.

Always wishing the best of luck! — Christina Sweiss

Learn more about Christina’s journey here.

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About the Author

Christina Sweiss

Christina Sweiss

My name is Christina Sweiss and I am a chiropractic student at National's Illinois campus. I was born and raised in the southern suburbs of Chicago, and received my Bachelor's degree in Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience from Loyola University Chicago in 2023. I am planning on pursuing the field of functional neurology out of fascination with the brain-body connection, and am driven to help all kinds of people optimize their neurological health. Outside of school, I love playing guitar, exercising, exploring Chicago, and going to local concerts. Through this blog, I intend to share insights and guidance from my journey in chiropractic school, aiming to motivate others and shed light on the evolving field of chiropractic and functional medicine.

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