Kristi Tauer, ‘18
Why did you choose to come to UMR? I chose UMR for the health sciences focus, the proximity to Mayo Clinic and the small class sizes. For someone who knows they want to work in the health care industry, UMR is a great fit!
What did your Capstone experience at UMR involve? My Capstone experience was titled "Finding a Professional Purpose: Using life's experiences to propel a career in integrative health and wellness coaching." I used my Capstone to explore integrative health and well-being coaching and to verify it was my future career goal. I explored integrative health through a summer internship with UMR's Director of Health and Wellness, Kris Barry, and took a variety of courses through the University of Minnesota's Center for Spirituality and Healing. I also delved into my passion for mentorship through my work as a Resident Assistant at 318 Commons and as the Community Assistant for UMR's first Healthy Living Learning Community.
How did your Capstone experience prepare you for the future in what you are currently doing? My Capstone reinforced my love for mentorship and integrative healing practices. I realized my passion for working with someone one-on-one and helping them achieve their goals. Through the Capstone process, I realized how expansive the health field is, and my strengths and passions fit into a career I previously did not know existed. I learned about the many areas of well-being, and how valuable individualized care can be. I fondly think back on my Capstone experience as the springboard into my future and the career I know I will love.
What are you currently doing? I earned a Master's degree in Integrative Health and Wellbeing Coaching from the University of Minnesota and am a Nationally Board Certified Integrative Health and Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC) at Newbridge Health & Wellness, a functional medicine clinic. In this role, I have the opportunity to coach clients individually and in group settings and share educational content to our patient population. Coaching is definitely a calling, and I am able to walk with my clients in their journeys toward optimal health. I love my career because I can share my passion for integrative healing practices, emotional and spiritual well-being and see how profoundly coaching can impact a person and empower them to take control of their health and create sustainable change.
Was there a faculty member that positively impacted your time at UMR and how? So many faculty members at UMR stand out as having a huge impact on my development, in pursuing my dreams and trusting my intuition and path toward a career. At the moment, Teresa Henderson Vazquez really stands out as an influential mentor. She was always there to support and encourage me through challenging times. With her mentorship, support and friendship, I was able to reflect, hone in on my passions and explore all of the possibilities both life and the health field has to offer. I am so grateful for her wisdom, kindness, generosity and ever-listening ear.