ND-MScN student speaker echoes role of naturopathic medicine to foster inclusion and empowerment. 

The National University of Natural Medicine is proud to highlight our student speakers for the 2025 Commencement, taking place on June 28.  

Lara Pate ’25

Program: Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND), Master of Science in Nutrition (MScN), and Naturopathic Childbirth/Midwifery Certificate

Lara Pate (she/they), the Student Speaker for the School of Undergraduate and Graduate Studies (SUGS) for this year’s National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM) commencement ceremony, shares what it means for her to go beyond diagnosis and treatment to empower patients in their health.  

Prior to NUNM, Pate earned her undergraduate degree in chemical engineering from the University of Alabama and worked as a quality assurance engineer.  

After several years in the professional world, searching for her “true calling”, she said she discovered naturopathic medicine and its focus on natural approaches to healing.  

“My own experiences with conventional care often left me frustrated by the ‘band-aid’ approach and the over-reliance on prescriptions,” Pate said. “I wanted more for myself and for others.”  

Although Pate, a dual-degree student in NUNM’s Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (ND) and Master of Science in Nutrition (MScN) programs, was uncertain of where the journey would lead, she decided to quit her job and pursue medical school in search of a more meaningful career. 

At NUNM, Pate also cultivated her interests in prenatal health through the Naturopathic Childbirth/Midwifery Certificate program. 

Now approaching graduation, she said her goal is to work in a clinical setting that integrates naturopathic medicine and midwifery care to offer care that is holistic, inclusive, and empowering for patients.  

Lara Pate spoke with NUNM about the value of community and her commitment to providing equitable care that can meet patients’ individualized needs.  

How has NUNM shaped your identity or perspective? 

NUNM has expanded my understanding of what medicine truly is. I no longer see it solely as diagnosis and treatment or even just health and wellness, but as part of a broader framework that can support justice, equity, and empowerment. Naturopathic medicine is fundamentally about the rights of others—the idea that everyone deserves access to clean air and water, nutritious food, safe housing, green spaces, and quality education. 

Part of naturopathic medicine is teaching patients how to support their health through these foundations, but it also requires us to advocate for equitable access to them. Supporting individual health means contributing to systems that protect and promote community wellbeing and environmental sustainability. NUNM helped me see that healing work extends beyond the clinic.  

What kind of impact do you hope to have in the future? 

My future impact is driven by an equity-centered approach to medicine. I want to empower my patients to feel confident in their health, understand their bodies, and make informed choices. I see myself working in family medicine, delivering babies, and providing care from birth through adulthood.  

By building strong relationships that honor each person’s experiences and needs, I aim to support the health of individuals, families, and communities. I believe everyone deserves care that is respectful, relevant, and designed to meet their unique needs. 

Were there moments that affirmed you were on the right path? 

There have certainly been moments of doubt and challenge, but overall, I feel confident that I’m on the right path. Some of the most affirming experiences have come when birthing people expressed appreciation for the support I provided during their births. 

Being a steady and compassionate presence during such a powerful and intimate time has shown me that this work matters, and that motivates me to keep going.  

What moments have stood out during your time at NUNM? 

One of the highlights during my time at NUNM has been the strong sense of community here. I’ve built deep and meaningful friendships with peers who are collaborative, thoughtful, and uplifting. Professors, doctors, and staff have demonstrated that same level of care—as mentors, teachers, and allies.  

Being part of a learning environment where people are genuinely invested in each other’s growth is what gave me the support to feel seen, valued, and able to show up as my full self. 

Written by Ashley Villarreal, NUNM Marketing Content Specialist, in collaboration with Lara Pate.