Inspired by travel and a passion for meaningful work, Samantha enjoys helping prospective students discover their path at NUNM.

At the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM), the admissions team is often the first point of connection for prospective students. They help answer questions, guide applicants through the process, and support future students as they explore their path into natural medicine, nutrition, and integrative health.

We sat down with Samantha to learn more about her background, what inspires her work, and what advice she has for students considering NUNM.

Tell us a little about yourself and your background.

Before joining NUNM, much of my career was in sales, marketing, and finance. Those roles helped shape how I communicate with people and approach problem solving. I also spent some time traveling, which gave me space to reflect on what I wanted the next chapter of my life to look like. When I came across NUNM, it felt like the universe was nudging me toward something more aligned with my values and a healthier pace of life.

Were there experiences that shaped your career path?

Travel had a big influence on me. Being in new places and meeting people with different perspectives made me rethink what success and fulfillment look like. It encouraged me to look for work that felt more meaningful and balanced, which ultimately led me to NUNM.

What does a typical day look like in your role?

Every day is a little different, which I enjoy. Most days include answering questions from prospective students, connecting with the admissions team, and helping applicants make sure they have everything they need to move forward. I also spend time helping students understand program requirements and guiding them through the application process.

What part of your job do you enjoy the most?

Seeing students move from “thinking about applying” to actually starting their program is incredibly rewarding. It’s meaningful to be part of the beginning of their journey.

What’s your favorite part of working with prospective students?

I love hearing why people feel drawn to natural medicine. Many students come to NUNM with a strong sense of purpose and a desire to help others, and it’s inspiring to hear their stories.

Are there common mistakes applicants make?

The most common is waiting until the last minute to start the application or ask questions. My advice is to start early and reach out whenever something feels unclear. We’re here to help, and asking questions along the way makes the process much smoother.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I love spending time with family and friends. I’m definitely an “outside person,” always looking for waterfalls or heading to the beach. I also enjoy visiting local farmers markets and berry farms with my kids.

What advice would you give prospective students?

Don’t underestimate your ability to pursue something you’re passionate about. Many people worry about whether they’re ready or if the timing is perfect, but often the hardest step is simply getting started. If you feel drawn to this field, it’s worth exploring.

What do you love most about the NUNM community?

There’s a shared commitment here to improving people’s health and wellbeing. Everyone cares deeply about the mission, and that sense of purpose shows in how people support each other. The tea club and the feeling that you’re at Hogwarts every day are also pretty great bonuses.