Jenn Evon was profiled during her time as a Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine student. She is now an alumna of the program and works as a course facilitator.
Watch Dr. Jenn Evon’s 2021 Alumni Career Showcase video!
Student Profile: Jenn Evon is a Colorado native that enjoys being active, eating well and empowering others. She is a self-proclaimed anatomy and nutrition nerd and loves going down research rabbit holes to discover just how interconnected everything is.
Why did you choose UWS?
I discovered nutrition, functional medicine and integrative health through my own health challenges in college. As nutrition and wellness started to become more of a passion of mine, I realized I wanted to go back to school for nutrition and make it my career. University of Western States really stood out to me due to its connection with the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM) and its evidence-based approach to learning. I wanted to receive the highest quality education possible and the curriculum at UWS was very impressive. Coming from a non-science background, I had to complete certain prerequisites before starting the program. The admissions team was so supportive during the whole process and I have experienced that same level of dedication from my instructors and various staff during the program.
What has been your favorite class/instructor?
It’s hard to choose just one! I enjoyed Dr. Walsh’s Hormone and Neurotransmitter Regulation and Imbalances course so much that I will be taking Oxidative/Reductive Dynamics and Energy Production with him this coming quarter. His level of expertise blows me away and he is really effective at teaching complex subjects in a way that is understandable and applicable to clinical practice. He asks students to think critically about the mechanisms behind various imbalances and his lectures are always very engaging.
What has been your experience with learning in HNFM’s online environment?
I enjoy learning online. It definitely takes more discipline than learning in a physical classroom, but I appreciate the flexibility that comes with it. I’ve enjoyed interacting with classmates from all over the country and the world. There is a feeling of camaraderie among the students, and the professors are available to offer support and clarification if needed. Even though it is a distance program, everything has always felt very personable.
What has been the most surprising part of attending UWS?
I am impressed by the amount of material that is covered in each class. Even though each quarter goes by quickly, we learn a lot in those short 10 weeks. Each professor has such a unique perspective and clinical practice history, so you really feel that you are receiving a holistic and well-balanced education from a variety of different practitioners.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
I have always been very entrepreneurially-minded, so I plan on going into private practice and combining nutrition with personal training and yoga therapy. I am particularly interested in chronic pain and helping people achieve a higher quality of life through improved energy, decreased pain, better digestion and a positive mindset. I would love to collaborate with other health care practitioners such as chiropractors, acupuncturists, functional medicine doctors and trainers to create a holistic wellness clinic and training facility.
What is your favorite activity to de-stress?
I absolutely love strength training. Going to the gym and moving around some heavy weights helps me to de-stress and think more clearly. After swinging around some kettlebells while listening to high-energy music, I feel confident and ready to take on the world!
