My journey to become an acupuncturist happened after receiving care for chronic illnesses, as well as my mother’s loving insistence that I explore the profession. I was close to finishing my Bachelors of Science in nutrition from the University of Minnesota, and had recently decided not to go to medical school because I knew my health would suffer. I was at a crossroads where I didn’t know which way to go.
My mother’s acupuncturist had recently moved away, and frequently mentioned that I should replace her. My mom teased me enough that I researched the physical impact of the job on the practitioner, and the education required. It was a fit. I knew that acupuncture had always helped me in the past when it seemed like no one else could, and now I could use it to do the same for others.
Through the highs and lows of graduate school, I found not only my new profession but also improved health. Since my clinical internships and graduation in 2023, I vowed to help others afflicted with chronic pain. My husband and I opened my very own office, Alba Acupuncture, not far from my childhood home to serve my community.
