Tyra Wingle’s passion for sports and movement led her to chiropractic, but Palmer College’s unmatched opportunities propelled her success.
“Palmer has given me the experiences and skills I’ll need to give my patients the best care,” she says. With the well-rounded education Palmer provides, along with opportunities for leadership in clubs like the Sports Council, Tyra is confident she will be fully prepared for her future chiropractic career.
Tyra’s own experience with healing and recovery inspired her to earn her Doctor of Chiropractic degree. “I originally went to school for a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, but after over 100 volunteer hours at physical therapy clinics, I felt like it wasn’t fulfilling enough for me,” she says.
After seeing the positive impact chiropractic care had on her own life, Tyra decided to switch paths and pursue a chiropractic career. “I could see myself really loving this profession,” she recalls.
“I chose Palmer because of its excellent reputation and the opportunities it provides for students,” Tyra explains.
“Campus life reflects the close relationships between students and staff,” she says. “There’s always a friendly face, and the atmosphere is uplifting. I know the people around me have my best interest at heart.”
The support system at Palmer, from faculty to fellow students, has helped Tyra thrive in a demanding academic environment. “My experience at Palmer has been fulfilling and challenging. Palmer’s curriculum has provided me with the knowledge I need, and the real-world experience to apply it effectively. I’ve been pushed in ways I didn’t know I could be, but in the best way.”
Her favorite courses have been Subluxation Analysis, Cervical Thoracic, and Physical Diagnosis, which have helped refine her adjusting skills and boosted her confidence in patient interactions. “These courses have been essential in building my confidence and improving patient interactions,” she explains.
Before arriving at Palmer, Tyra was a three-sport athlete, playing basketball, field hockey and track and field. Tyra found her true love for field hockey in high school, where she excelled in the sport, even playing overseas in Spain and Ireland. Her experience in competitive sports taught her the value of discipline and perseverance—qualities she has brought with her to Palmer College.
After her field hockey career ended, Tyra sought a new athletic challenge and turned to fitness competitions. “I joined my local CrossFit gym and immediately got hooked,” she recalled. “I placed 1st in my first Deka Fit competition and went on to win my age group at Deka Fit Worlds.” Tyra’s competitive drive continues to fuel her as she aims to compete in the Hydrox competition next.
Now in her 5th trimester, Tyra has embraced every opportunity to grow both academically and personally.
For incoming students, Tyra offers simple but valuable advice: “Soak it all in. The time flies by, so take advantage of every opportunity to learn something new. Keep an open mind and don’t be afraid to explore different ideas and techniques because you never know what will resonate with you.”
