With a long career in higher education, Southern New Hampshire alum reflects on support and acceptance at NUNM.

The Admissions team at the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM) is dedicated to providing resources and guidance to students so they choose the right path in natural medicine.

In highlighting our Admissions team and their contributions to the NUNM community, we asked admissions counselor Caleb Eldridge to share more about their role:

Where’s home? What did you like about living there? 

I was born in West Virginia, but also call Tennessee home. I loved the rolling hills and the fog-covered mountains that look blue in the early morning. There was always good food, back porches, and lots of family. The feeling of warmth was something I always loved about living there. 

Where did you go to school? What did you study? 

I went to Southern New Hampshire University. I studied English and Creative Writing, with a focus on YA speculative fiction. 

What’s the best part of your job working in NUNM Admissions? 

My favorite part about working in Admissions at NUNM is the students. I’ve had the opportunity to meet so many talented, interesting people from many different walks of life. Getting the chance to meet people and help them as they decide what’s best for their life and their educational journey is a gift that I feel privileged to be part of. ‘

While I’ve loved all my work in higher ed, my experience here at NUNM has been second to none.

What’s unique about the NUNM experience and community here?

I’ve worked in higher education for a long time and NUNM is truly the most kind, supportive, accepting community I’ve had the privilege to work in. The student body loves and cares for one another. The administration truly feels like they are working as a team to figure out the best ways forward. Everyone works hard because we all believe in creating a community of learning and empathy. While I’ve loved all my work in higher ed, my experience here at NUNM has been second to none. 

Why is NUNM and Portland a great place to study natural medicine? 

NUNM is truly a community of kind, brilliant, and amazingly big-hearted individuals. You learn to support yourself and others through the power of natural healing—all while being surrounded by amazing community, natural beauty, and the beautifully weird experiences that define Portland, Oregon. 

— Ashley Villarreal, Marketing Content Specialist