Graduate Spotlight Features

Rachelle Turrell: Misheard Patient to Empowering Community Practice

Rachelle Turrell, a graduate of the South Pacific College of Natural Medicine (SPCNM), shares her inspiring journey from personal health challenges to becoming a dedicated naturopath and medical herbalist. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of natural medicine and the exceptional education at SPCNM.

Introduction to Natural Health

Rachelle’s path to naturopathy began with her own health struggles. “My story starts like many others in natural medicine. I found the college after suffering with my health for a long time,” she explains. Years of competitive bodybuilding had taken a toll on her body, leading to a diagnosis of fibromyalgia. After years of consulting various specialists, GPs, and dietitians with no improvement, a Facebook post by a friend in her final year at SPCNM caught her eye. “I had nothing to lose and it was nice and cheap, so I booked in!” she recalls.

The experience was a revelation. “I couldn’t believe the amount of detail she went into with my health history; her non-judgemental, caring nature, and genuine passion to help me feel better just blew me away!” Feeling heard and hopeful for the first time, Rachelle inquired about the Bachelor’s degree in Natural Medicine. Inspired by her friend’s glowing recommendation of SPCNM, she applied to become a part-time online student a week later.

Favourite Moments at SPCNM

Reflecting on her time at SPCNM, Rachelle finds it challenging to narrow down her favourite moments. Initially an online student, she truly embraced the essence of the college when she began on-campus studies. “It soon became my second home, and I began to make meaningful connections with students and staff,” she says.

Rachelle’s passion for ‘Food as Medicine’ was ignited during Nutrition classes, where the lecturer’s expertise and enthusiasm left a lasting impact. She also highlights the Mind and Body class as particularly transformative, offering life-changing lessons and a deep connection to the material.

The serene campus gardens provided a much-needed respite from the stresses of assignments and exams. Her final year in the student clinic was an unforgettable experience. “We were a small cohort of just 13, which became a tight-knit group. I loved the conversations around the workroom table and learned so much from colleagues and the supervisors,” she reminisces. The bonds formed were so strong that there were tears on their final day in the clinic.

Post-Graduation Journey

Rachelle wasted no time after graduation, launching her clinical practice just two weeks after completing her degree. “I had already designed and published my website while in year two and had built a profile on Instagram so that when I finished college, I wouldn’t be starting from scratch,” she explains. Initially, much of her time was spent setting up her client management system and integrations, which was a significant learning experience.

Currently, Rachelle operates her clinic from home, seeing most clients online. She also manages a few weight loss clients locally. Word of mouth and social media have been key to growing her client base, supplemented by her uniquely designed Suzuki Swift adorned with her logo and contact details. Engaging with the community has also been a priority. “This year, I’ve done a series of free presentations at the local library, which have been a great success,” she notes. These presentations have not only increased her visibility but also attracted new clients and subscribers.

Rachelle remains committed to continuous learning and innovation. She developed a programme called ‘Sift out the Sugar,’ which brings in passive income through her website. She is currently working on a members-only area with a weekly subscription model to provide resources to her clients. Plans for next year include more presentations with a small fee to further establish her expertise in the community.

Advice for Aspiring Students

For those considering the Bachelor of Natural Medicine programme, Rachelle offers heartfelt advice. “If you have a passion for helping others, this is a rewarding degree to study,” she affirms. Despite starting with little knowledge about plants or natural health, she found the journey immensely fulfilling. Building confidence and creating a support network have been crucial to her success.

Rachelle emphasises the importance of documenting lecture notes digitally. “I started this in year two and wish I’d done it sooner,” she advises. A digital document allows for easy searchability and continuous updates, making it a valuable resource throughout one’s career. She encourages students to embrace the final year, despite its challenges. “It’s tough, and the wheels don’t stop turning, but it was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had in my life,” she reflects. Taking full advantage of the resources and support available, and never being afraid to ask questions, are key to making the most of the experience.

Gemma McLeod: Path of Early Challenges to Purposeful Practice

Gemma McLeod, a graduate of the South Pacific College of Natural Medicine (SPCNM), shares her transformative journey from personal health struggles to becoming a dedicated naturopath and medical herbalist. Her story highlights the profound impact of natural health and the comprehensive education provided by SPCNM.

Introduction to Natural Health

Gemma’s journey into natural health began with her own health challenges during her teenage years, which sparked an interest in nutrition. “My teen years brought with them many challenges that ultimately sparked my interest in nutrition and led me to nurture the idea of pursuing a nutrition degree,” she explains. Due to compromised health, she left high school at 15 and later pursued a health sciences bridging education programme to gain university entrance.

Just months before enrolling in a nutrition degree, Gemma’s health deteriorated, leading to a diagnosis of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). POTS is a nervous system disorder that disrupts the normal return of blood to the heart when moving from lying down or sitting to standing. “It wasn’t uncommon for my heart rate to reach nearly 200 bpm when standing or walking, and I was horrendously fatigued,” she recalls.

While a cocktail of medications provided some relief, it wasn’t until she saw a naturopath, an SPCNM graduate, that significant improvements occurred. “During my first appointment with her, I had an epiphany. I didn’t want to be a dietitian – I wanted to be a naturopath,” Gemma says. This realisation set her on the path to SPCNM.

Favourite Moments at SPCNM

Reflecting on her time at SPCNM, Gemma cites her experience in the student clinic as the highlight. “My time in the student clinic was, without question, the highlight of my SPCNM experience,” she shares. The balance of independent casework and collaborative opportunities with peers and supervisors during pre- and post-clinic meetings was invaluable. “Finally being able to put everything I had been learning into practice within the student clinic accelerated my learning in that final year and left me feeling well-equipped to handle working independently after graduating,” she adds.

Gemma’s integration of lessons learned from peers and supervisors into her clinical practice has been instrumental in her success as a graduate.

Post-Graduation Journey

Immediately after graduation, Gemma began seeing clients and quickly built her practice into a full-time job. However, the initial months came with their challenges. “I’ve certainly made my fair share of burnout-inducing mistakes over the last six months – seeing clients five days per week and spending all weekend doing admin probably tops the list!” she admits. Adjusting her schedule, she now sees clients three days a week and reserves two days for clinic admin, dispensing, answering emails, and writing health plans. This balance has been crucial for her sustainability and effectiveness.

Advice for Aspiring Students

Gemma offers insightful advice for those considering the Bachelor of Natural Medicine programme and for students nearing graduation. “Find a niche – or let it find you during your clinic year!” she advises. While having a broad knowledge base is beneficial, specialising in a particular condition or group of conditions, such as autoimmune disorders, can make one a more efficient practitioner and business owner. “Understanding a particular condition in significant detail will make you a more efficient practitioner and business owner while (most importantly) achieving excellent results for your clients,” she emphasises.

Sophia Newth: A Way of Living to Passionate Practitioner

Sophia Newth, a graduate of the South Pacific College of Natural Medicine (SPCNM), shares her journey from a childhood steeped in natural health to becoming a dedicated naturopath and medical herbalist. Her story reflects the profound influence of her upbringing and the exceptional community at SPCNM.

Introduction to Natural Health

Sophia’s introduction to natural health began early, growing up with a grandmother who was both a naturopath and a counsellor. “Natural health has always been a part of my life,” Sophia recalls. Her mother’s preference for natural therapies over Western medicine further solidified this way of living for Sophia and her siblings. “It was more a way of living for us, which I’m grateful for,” she says.

The idea of becoming a naturopath first took root during a high school careers day when a naturopath spoke to the students. However, it wasn’t until Sophia faced her own health complications and felt a strong desire to support others on their health journeys that she decided to pursue a Bachelor in Natural Medicine. “I found myself enrolling in a Bachelor of Natural Medicine to change my career and support people on their health journeys,” she explains.

Favourite Moments at SPCNM

Reflecting on her time at SPCNM, Sophia finds it hard to pinpoint specific moments, as the entire experience felt special. “For me, it’s the whole environment that has been created at SPCNM that feels like a favourite moment,” she shares. From the moment she walked through the doors, she felt welcomed and nurtured. “The morale and community that SPCNM has created is like no other experience,” Sophia says.

The passion of both students and staff at SPCNM was contagious. “All of the staff are there because they want to be there, and this passion is contagious,” she notes. The attentiveness, support, and friendly atmosphere were aspects Sophia deeply appreciated and will never forget. “All the learnings were interesting and valuable, therefore I can’t pick just a few to write about,” she adds.

Post-Graduation Journey

After graduating, Sophia took a much-needed holiday to recharge. “The degree is no easy feat, so some recharge time felt important,” she explains. Upon returning, she began setting up her own business while also working part-time at My Remedy, doing an internship with Lynette Hill. “I feel so lucky having this opportunity to work alongside her and other amazing practitioners at the clinic,” she says.

Advice for Aspiring Students

Sophia offers valuable advice to those nearing graduation and entering practice. She acknowledges the overwhelming feeling that can come with setting up post-graduation. “There are lots of ideas of how you can do things and how to practise as a practitioner,” she notes. From website design to social media presence, the myriad of options can be daunting.

Her key advice is to stay true to oneself. “Once I took a step back from all of this, if there’s something I can pass on to you, it’s to stay true to yourself and the way you want to practise,” Sophia advises. While it’s beneficial to be influenced and inspired by others, it’s crucial not to let others’ methods overshadow one’s authentic self. “Those who are meant for you will align with you,” she concludes.

Hanna McLeay: Merging Passions for Clinical Success

Hanna McLeay’s journey into the world of natural health and medical herbalism is a testament to the transformative power of alternative medicine and the profound personal and professional growth she experienced at the South Pacific College of Natural Medicine (SPCNM).

Introduction to Natural Health

Hanna’s introduction to natural health was driven by her personal health challenges, specifically her battle with Graves’ Disease. Faced with the daunting option of permanently altering her thyroid function through surgery or medication, Hanna sought an alternative approach. This led her to explore the benefits of seeing a naturopath and clinical nutritionist. “The phenomenal experience not only helped me come off my thyroid medication within four months, but I have also retained remission for six years,” Hanna shares. Her thyroid continues to function well, which solidified her faith in natural medicine.

Additionally, Hanna’s work as an Outdoor Instructor and guide exposed her to Rongoā Māori—the traditional medicinal uses of native New Zealand plants. This experience deepened her interest in medical herbalism, as she often shared her knowledge of native plants and utilised them in bush teas for her clients.

Memorable Moments at SPCNM

Hanna’s time at SPCNM was marked by a vibrant learning environment and a supportive community. “The pretty garden at SPCNM was a lovely, vibrant place, but what I enjoyed most was making deep friendships through our shared passion,” she recalls. The clinic year was particularly empowering for Hanna, allowing her to apply her knowledge practically and help real people with their health conditions. “It was a very humbling experience, advised and educated by our superstar supervisors who held such a wealth of knowledge,” she adds.

Post-Graduation Journey

After graduation, Hanna took a summer break to engage in active work, leading hiking tours in the South Island, which allowed her to reconnect with nature. She eventually settled in Wanaka, where she has been building her business and has recently opened her own clinic. “I’m so stoked to have made it to this moment where I’ve just opened my own clinic space in Wanaka,” she expresses. Hanna continues to blend her passion for the outdoors with her naturopathic practice, maintaining a balance that keeps her connected to the natural world.

Advice for Aspiring Students and Graduates

Hanna offers words of wisdom for those considering the BNatMed programme and for recent graduates. “It is a journey in yourself if you want to be able to hold knowledge that can empower and help people in a less conventional space,” she advises. Hanna emphasises the importance of having a strong value system aligned with natural and herbal medicine. To the graduates, she says, “Start small and keep moving forward. I’ve had big highs and big lows, but I know I’m working towards the dream I hold.”

For those in the field, Hanna stresses the importance of community over competition. “Get a group of supportive friends and befriend others in the industry. They aren’t competition; they are support,” she concludes.

Jane Wrigglesworth: Personal Healing to Published Author

Jane Wrigglesworth, a graduate of the South Pacific College of Natural Medicine (SPCNM), shares her inspiring journey into the world of natural health, reflecting on her transformative experiences and offering guidance to aspiring naturopaths.

Introduction to Natural Health

Jane’s introduction to natural health began in the early 2000s when she faced a severe health crisis. “My interest in herbs and natural medicine peaked when I developed a bleeding stomach and ended up in the hospital,” she recalls. After receiving two blood transfusions, Jane was prescribed ferritin tablets to restore her haemoglobin levels. Unfortunately, these tablets caused severe nausea and were ineffective. This led her to explore natural remedies.

She discovered that parsley, rich in iron and Vitamin C, could enhance iron absorption. Combining parsley with chamomile tea, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, she saw a remarkable improvement in her iron levels. “It was this experience that sparked my interest in herbal medicine,” Jane explains. Her newfound passion led her to write a herb column for NZ Gardener for over a decade and edit the quarterly journal of the Herb Federation of New Zealand for seven years before pursuing formal education to become a naturopath and medical herbalist.

Memorable Moments at SPCNM

Reflecting on her time at SPCNM, Jane fondly remembers her studies. “I loved every minute of it,” she enthuses. The in-depth learning at SPCNM deepened her understanding of natural medicine’s role in promoting health and provided her with a solid scientific foundation. She particularly enjoyed the student clinic, where she could apply her knowledge in a practical setting alongside qualified naturopaths.

Jane also appreciated the beautiful campus, which features a large herb garden that served as both a learning resource and a place for rejuvenation. She highlights the exceptional on-campus library and cherishes the lifelong friendships she formed with like-minded peers and tutors. “The whole journey was profoundly transformative, fostering a genuine appreciation for sustainable health practices and empowering me to make a positive impact on others’ wellness through natural medicine,” she says.

Post-Graduation Journey

Since graduating, Jane’s career has flourished. “I was immediately contracted by a large corporate company to design and create an organic community garden for their employees – that’s corporate wellness at its best!” she shares. This garden will eventually open to the public and host workshops on basic gardening techniques, fruit and vegetable preservation, and cooking demonstrations. Jane is developing a herb garden for culinary and medicinal purposes, with plans for further workshops on natural medicine. “It’s exciting!” she exclaims. Additionally, Jane runs her private clinic specialising in nervous system dysregulation to help individuals and corporate employees manage stress and sleep better.

Advice for Aspiring Students

For those considering the Bachelor of Natural Medicine program at SPCNM or nearing graduation, Jane offers sage advice. “SPCNM’s Bachelor of Natural Medicine is the best programme in NZ. I highly recommend it,” she asserts. Jane also highlights the flexibility of the program, noting that the first two years can be studied online and part-time, which was particularly beneficial for her as she balanced full-time work with her studies.

Jane Wrigglesworth’s journey from personal healing to a career in natural health exemplifies the transformative power of herbal medicine and the comprehensive education provided by SPCNM. Her story is an inspiration to anyone considering a path in naturopathy and medical herbalism.

Sarah Olsen: Health Challenges to Thriving Practice

Sarah Olsen, a graduate of the South Pacific College of Natural Medicine (SPCNM), shares her journey into the world of natural health, highlighting her experiences and offering valuable insights to those considering a career in naturopathy and medical herbalism.

Introduction to Natural Health

Sarah’s interest in health and wellness began at a young age, with a particular focus on natural methods to support her body. Her journey took a decisive turn when she faced health challenges related to irregular periods and a fluctuating diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). “I felt lost on what to do after being diagnosed and then undiagnosed with PCOS,” Sarah recalls. Seeking help, she consulted a naturopath, and the results were transformative. “Within a week after seeing her, I felt so much better. I felt heard and cared for, and my periods have been regular ever since.”

This personal experience inspired Sarah to pursue a career in naturopathy. “Seeing a naturopath myself definitely made me go down this path, and honestly, I haven’t looked back,” she says. Sarah found her passion in helping others achieve their best health through the combination of nature and science. “I love being a naturopath. It doesn’t feel like work but more like helping people feel their vibrant and energetic best.”

Favourite Moments at SPCNM

Reflecting on her time at SPCNM, Sarah finds it difficult to pinpoint just a few favourite moments, as the entire experience was deeply enriching. “I loved my time at SPCNM. I always felt so supported by the staff, who were all so helpful, knowledgeable, and friendly,” she shares. The engaging coursework, especially in Herbal Medicine, Nutrition, and Therapeutics, stood out to her. “Learning about all the herbs, how we can use food as medicine, and then therapeutics, which brings everything together and prepares you for the clinic, were some of my favourite subjects.”

The student clinic was a particularly memorable part of her education. “Seeing clients, being in a clinic setting, treating people, and getting a taste of what’s to come once we graduate was definitely a highlight,” Sarah says. She also cherishes the lifelong friendships she made at SPCNM, along with the ongoing support they offer each other as practicing naturopaths.

Post-Graduation Journey

Since graduating, Sarah’s career has taken off with great excitement and promise. “I started my own business as soon as I graduated, and it’s been thrilling to see lots of new clients and meet new people,” she enthuses. She is expanding her practice to include a new clinic space and will soon offer services in both Hawkes Bay and Auckland, as well as online consultations.

Advice for Aspiring Students

Sarah offers encouraging words to those considering the Bachelor of Natural Medicine program at SPCNM. “It can be super daunting enrolling in a degree,” she acknowledges. “I know it took me a while to bite the bullet and do it. I worried I didn’t know enough for all the science-based papers.” Despite her initial reservations, she signed up just before the enrollment deadline in 2019, and it turned out to be the best decision she made. “You learn so much at SPCNM, and the support offered to students by all staff is unmatched.”

Sarah Olsen’s journey from a personal health struggle to a successful naturopath underscores the transformative power of natural medicine and the exceptional education provided by SPCNM. Her story is a beacon of inspiration for anyone considering a career in naturopathy and medical herbalism.

Andrea McCall: Beauty Therapist to Own Skincare Line

Andrea McCall, a graduate of the South Pacific College of Natural Medicine (SPCNM), shares her journey into the realm of natural health, highlighting her experiences, insights, and advice for those considering a career in naturopathy and medical herbalism.

Introduction to Natural Health

Andrea’s path to becoming a naturopath and medical herbalist was deeply influenced by her personal health experiences. “Like most naturopaths, I had my own health care history that was only really addressed and treated once I saw a naturopath,” she explains. This experience opened her eyes to the broader possibilities in healthcare and the high standard of care that naturopathy offers.

Coming from a background that did not emphasize holistic or natural healthcare, Andrea found her exploration into this field both fantastic and enlightening. As a beauty therapist, she developed a keen interest in skin health, particularly in helping those with chronic skin conditions. “I always knew that beauty and skin health were not just surface-level concerns,” she says. This realization motivated her to expand her knowledge in health and pursue a degree in natural medicine at SPCNM.

Favourite Moments at SPCNM

Andrea fondly recalls her time at SPCNM, emphasizing not just the academic experience but also the supportive and family-like atmosphere. “Obviously, the learning experience was amazing, but for me, the whole atmosphere at SPCNM was incredible,” she says. She feels blessed to have met such amazing people, including her peers and the faculty, and appreciates the beautiful campus grounds.

“SPCNM felt like an extension of your family or home. Not once did I feel like a ‘number’ in the system,” Andrea reflects. She highlights the support provided by the college, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 lockdowns. This sense of community and belonging was integral to her positive experience at SPCNM.

Post-Graduation Journey

Since graduating, Andrea has successfully integrated her new skills into her professional life. She offers consultations as a naturopath and medical herbalist while continuing her work in massage and holistic skin care. She operates as a contractor at Tonic Room Kingsland and runs her own clinic, Skin Within, where she formulates and manufactures bespoke natural skincare products.

“I enjoy being able to work alongside a team in a busy holistic clinic like Tonic Room, while also embracing the rewarding challenge of growing my own clinic,” Andrea shares. Her journey reflects a seamless blend of teamwork and entrepreneurial spirit in the holistic health field.

Advice for Aspiring Students

Andrea offers heartfelt advice to those considering the Bachelor of Natural Medicine program at SPCNM or about to graduate. “Do it because you love it! Be prepared for the heavy but rewarding study load and how it may impact your life,” she advises. She emphasizes the importance of having a rough plan and direction for one’s career, even though it’s normal for things to change along the way.

“Start thinking about what you want out of a career as a natural health practitioner and get support in place so that the momentum continues after graduation,” she suggests. Above all, Andrea stresses the importance of passion. “Do it because you’re passionate about health and helping others. As tough as it can be throughout the study and once you start your career, it’s that sense of purpose and reward when you can help others find answers to their health complaints and finally heal.”

Andrea McCall’s journey from a beauty therapist to a successful naturopath and medical herbalist exemplifies the transformative power of natural medicine and the comprehensive education provided by SPCNM. Her story is a testament to the impact of holistic health practices and the fulfilment that comes from helping others achieve their best health.

Susan Eckert: Amazonian Rainforest to Piha Retreats

Susan Eckert, a graduate of the South Pacific College of Natural Medicine (SPCNM), shares her journey into the world of natural health, highlighting her inspiring experiences and offering valuable advice to those considering a career in naturopathy and medical herbalism.

Introduction to Natural Health

Susan’s introduction to natural health was deeply influenced by her travels and personal experiences. In 2018, she traveled through Central and South America, including guided walks through the Amazonian rainforest. “The vast splendor of medicinal plants growing there was breathtaking and inspired me to want to learn more about ‘The Healing Power of Nature’,” she recalls.

Around the same time, Susan’s sister, who suffers from ulcerative colitis, had a near-fatal experience due to the side effects of a pharmaceutical drug. Since then, her sister has been on a journey to health and well-being using natural remedies and alternative therapies, remaining in remission for the past seven years. “This is one example that opened my eyes to the immense healing powers of natural remedies,” Susan explains. She emphasizes that true healing involves not just herbs, homeopathy, or flower essences, but also a deep connection with nature, which awakens a natural resilience and wisdom within us.

Finding SPCNM was a turning point for Susan. “When I found SPCNM and was so warmly greeted by the college’s receptionist, I felt immediately at home: the Paua Clinic, the cozy student cottage, the library stacked with amazing books, and the gardens – wow! I knew I had found my place instantly.”

Favourite Moments at SPCNM

Susan’s time at SPCNM was filled with memorable experiences that enriched her education and personal growth. She fondly recalls her Herbal Medicine classes, where they engaged with healing plants by touching and tasting them. “What an amazing way to learn by creating personal relationships with some of the healing plants!” she says.

She cherished the warm greetings from the receptionist every morning and enjoyed having lunch in the herb garden, surrounded by butterflies and bees. Susan was inspired by teachings in the Principles and Philosophies of Natural Medicine and the Business paper, as well as the therapeutics class, which was so rich in information that she often revisited the recordings to take additional notes.

The lockdown period, with its shift to online Zoom classes, allowed Susan to practice what she preached by spending her saved commuting time on yoga and nature walks. She appreciated the opportunity for online learning and formed strong bonds with her peers, often discussing cases over a glass of wine after clinics.

One of her fondest memories was dancing through the corridor after their last lecture, celebrating with her classmates and sharing high fives with everyone.

Post-Graduation Journey

Since graduating, Susan has maintained her connection with SPCNM as a Graduate Practitioner and will continue as a Dispensary Assistant at the Paua Clinic later this year. She also works at the Te Wahi Ora women’s retreat in Piha, creating a safe and wholesome environment for women recovering from challenging life events.

Susan has discovered a passion for bodywork, offering massages at Te Wahi Ora, and is planning further training in Myofascial Release and Myofascial Unwinding techniques. She continues her studies in herbal medicine with the School of Evolutionary Herbalism and is pursuing a certificate in flower essence therapy with the First Light Flower Essence Online school, having won the student scholarship for the 2023 cohort.

Advice for Aspiring Students

Susan offers profound advice to those considering the Bachelor of Natural Medicine program at SPCNM. “Natural medicine is the way of the future,” she asserts. As more people struggle with chronic illnesses caused by modern lifestyle and dietary habits, mineral-depleted soils, and environmental toxins, our approach to health and healing needs to shift.

“It is an honor and great joy to be working alongside nature’s allies and contribute to true and lasting positive changes happening in people’s lives,” Susan says. Her journey and dedication to natural health exemplify the transformative power of nature and the comprehensive education provided by SPCNM, inspiring future practitioners to embrace this path with passion and purpose.

Vida McCord: A Family Legacy of Holistic Health

Vida McCord, a graduate of the South Pacific College of Natural Medicine (SPCNM), shares her inspiring journey into the world of natural health. Drawing from a rich family history of holistic healing, she offers valuable insights for aspiring naturopaths and medical herbalists.

Introduction to Natural Health

Vida’s path to becoming a naturopath and medical herbalist was deeply influenced by her upbringing. “I was raised in a family that has always been holistic in their approach to health. My maternal lineage, in particular, has always had a deep kinship with natural healing modalities. These women have always been my greatest inspiration,” she explains.

One of her family members was among the first naturopaths in New Zealand in the early 1900s, although he was considered a quack at the time. This historical connection fueled Vida’s passion for natural health. “I feel as though being a naturopath is a point I’ve always been navigating toward. Timing is everything – and all of a sudden, four years ago, I knew it was time to combine all my passions and interests with this degree and help from an informed position.”

Favourite Moments at SPCNM

Vida’s time at SPCNM was marked by meaningful connections and profound learning experiences. “Undoubtedly, the friendships are the greatest highlight,” she says, reflecting on the bonds formed with both students and teachers. She emphasizes the importance of peer support, noting that while textbooks provided valuable knowledge, her peers were her primary source of learning. Weekly study groups became a space for decompression, idea exchange, and mutual support.

Another standout moment for Vida was her first client interaction in the student clinic. “Sitting with my first client in the clinic was beyond special. What a feeling, actually doing the THING. Take a moment to appreciate how much work has gone into this moment – it feels big because it is big.”

Post-Graduation Journey

After a short summer break, Vida quickly transitioned into professional practice by starting her own clinic. “I knew if I spent too long away from practicing, I’d lose momentum,” she says. Teaming up with her friend and a fellow graduate, Vida secured a clinic room inside an osteopathy clinic in Tauranga. Balancing a part-time job to manage the financial challenges of starting a business, she runs her clinic on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. “The journey is not linear – be prepared to walk an undulating path with highs, lows, and everything in between.”

Advice for Aspiring Students

Vida offers heartfelt advice for those considering the Bachelor of Natural Medicine program or about to graduate. “Embrace the unique experience of learning alongside like-minded peers. Try to be as present as possible with the fact you are receiving an education and learning from some of the greatest teachers in the industry. Ask all the questions, visit the library as much as possible, and invest in the friendships you have made.”

She acknowledges the challenges but also highlights the privilege of being in the care industry. “Oftentimes it feels hard and stressful, and you want the semesters to end fast – but all of a sudden the degree comes to an end, and you’ll miss showing up at school every day.”

On a practical note, Vida advises final-year students to start preparing for their future practice while still in school. “The final year is essentially your first year in the clinic. If you want to start a clinic straight out of college, kickstart your business now so you’re not overwhelmed with your to-do list in the new year. Build the website, work on branding and imagery, write content, explore booking and accounting software, and do lots of networking.”

Vida concludes with an open invitation to her peers and future students: “Please reach out to me if you need any support, have any questions, or just want to chat – I’m here for you!”

Vida McCord’s journey, deeply rooted in a family tradition of holistic health, showcases the transformative power of natural medicine and the robust education provided by SPCNM. Her story is a testament to the profound impact of combining passion, tradition, and modern knowledge in naturopathy and medical herbalism.