One of the best ways to give back to the profession and build a legacy is to become a preceptor.
Posted in Articles on Thursday, August 7, 2025
Preceptorships have long been seen as a vital bridge for chiropractic students, where they can apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to real-world settings. What we sometimes forget, though, is how beneficial a preceptorship can also be for the chiropractor offering it.
Being a preceptor allows you the opportunity to grow, give back, and in many instances, reenergize your purpose in the profession.
Why You Should Consider Hosting a Preceptorship
Opening your practice to a student isn’t just about giving back to the profession—it can also bring significant rewards to your own professional life.
Gain a Fresh Perspective
Students bring fresh ideas and skills currently being taught in chiropractic schools. Their questions may challenge your techniques or encourage you to revisit why you do things a certain way. In addition, you’ll have the opportunity to explain to them your clinical decisions and adjusting techniques which can help reignite your own attention to detail.
Contribute to the Future of Chiropractic
In a world where hands-on experience and guidance are irreplaceable, many students feel they could have benefited from more hands-on practice before graduation. That means your role as a preceptor isn’t just appreciated; it’s essential. By helping shape a future chiropractor, you’re investing in the future of the profession. Sharing your expertise with a student is a powerful way to create a legacy.
Revitalize Your Passion
Working alongside a student who’s excited to learn can be contagious. Sharing the same space as an eager-to-learn student can reignite your own passion and perhaps even remind you of why you originally got into the field of chiropractic.
How to Get Involved
There are two simple ways to set up a preceptorship.
Contact Chiropractic Colleges
Many chiropractic colleges have formal preceptorship programs in place and are always looking for experienced chiropractors willing to help train the next generation. By reaching out directly to the college, you can find out what qualifications are required, and how to get started.
Connect with Your State Association
Let your state association know you’re open to hosting a student. Associations often work closely with schools and can help match students looking for preceptors in your area.
If you’re a practicing chiropractor, consider becoming a preceptor. You have the chance to make a lasting impact on someone’s career and help strengthen the profession for years to come.
In the end, a chiropractic preceptorship offers far more than hands-on training. It cultivates professional growth and helps students navigate the transition from the classroom to clinical practice with clarity and confidence.