Bio: Jasmine Cheema grew up in Toronto, Ontario. After graduating high school, she attended the University of Guelph in Guelph, Ontario where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in biology in 2018. While obtaining her bachelor’s degree, she was interested in cell biology and nutrition, which led her to an undergraduate research position. She then went on to pursue a Master of Science degree in nutrition and nutraceutical sciences and graduated in 2019 prior to attending University of Western States.
Why did you choose UWS?
I chose UWS because it provided me with an opportunity to explore the Pacific Northwest and everything it has to offer. Portland has a lot of outdoor activities, so in my spare time I knew there would be a lot of hikes and trails to explore. I’m also a foodie and prior to moving to the west coast, I heard the city has some of the best food and I knew I had to try it! I also have family and friends who have moved to Vancouver, BC, so living in Portland gave me the opportunity to spend some time with them and build relationships.
Why did you choose your program/concentration?
I chose the doctor of chiropractic program because I’ve always wanted to help others for as long as I could remember. I have been fascinated by the human body and helping individuals achieve optimal health and well-being. However, I have not seen long-term benefits of invasive surgical techniques, but instead through procedures such as spinal adjustments, soft tissue techniques, laser, ultrasound and rehabilitation exercises.
What has been your favorite class/instructor?
My favorite classes have been Dr. Lefebvre’s spinal disorders and clinical phase series because he spends a lot of time making sure we understand diagnoses and treatments of various musculoskeletal conditions. In his classes, students develop a thought process and critical thinking skills through various case studies which are applicable to real life clinical settings.
What is your favorite way to relieve stress outside of the office and classroom?
In my spare time, I enjoy exploring everything the Pacific Northwest has to offer. In the evenings and weekends, my friends and I will oftenexplore new trails and go for runs. As I mentioned earlier, I love trying new foods and my roommates and I always look for different restaurants and food trucks to try out in our spare time. I found that having a balance between classes and my personal life is very important for me, so in the evenings I try to take a few minutes to meditate.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
I hope to move to the west coast of Canada and participate in an associateship where I can further refine my skillset and gain experience with a diverse population. Eventually, I would like to have my own practice where I plan on working with elderly individuals and can cater treatment plans to their specific needs.