Olivia Griffith ’16

Exercise Science

Biography

Since graduating from Taylor University, God has paved my path on one grand adventure! I worked as a university admissions counselor at Liberty University and as a community liaison for a public health initiative, The Blue Zones Project. After recognizing the longing in my heart for people and holistic health I enrolled in chiropractic school at Palmer College of Chiropractic. The Lord has not been subtle with me and when He asked me to open a chiropractic office after graduating I could only say yes. I opened a chiropractic office in January of 2022 in South Carolina. I have met so many wonderful people and the Lord has connected me with my patients for a specific reason. It is an absolute privilege to teach people about how their bodies function and to empower people that their bodies are made to heal, to restore, and to give life.

What were some of your most valuable experiences at Taylor?

My most valuable experiences were being a part of the volleyball program, learning from professors who love the Lord, and being connected with my peers in the exercise science program.

How did your classes or interactions with professors at Taylor impact your growth?

Sure I learned facts and gained knowledge in my classes at Taylor but what had the greatest impact on my growth was learning how to apply the knowledge to life. My professors in the exercise science department taught me how to apply knowledge and ask questions from a biblical standpoint. Specifically, my whole perspective on health changed within one class period of nutrition with Dr. Hayes. That was the turning point that led me to eventually choose a career in chiropractic. My relationships with professors at TU is something I'll always be deeply grateful for because it has shaped my personal relationship with the Lord, relationships with my family and community, and my passions in life.

How can Taylor graduates use their unique Taylor education and its liberal arts foundational core as an asset in your discipline?

The greatest gift I received from classes at TU was how to think and apply myself in a manner that can glorify the Lord. Life is not categorized into boxes so the ability to integrate faith in the classroom is a great opportunity to learn how you can apply yourself in any field. Specifically in my discipline, chiropractic, we are constantly learning new things about how the body functions and relaying that information to patients and educating the community on steps they can take to live a life as God intended for us to live. My chiropractic office is a space that directly reflects how TU professors taught me.

What advice or encouragement could you provide for Taylor students in your vocational discipline?

At TU, I knew what I enjoyed learning about but didn't know how to make it into a profession or career. The most helpful action step I took was to shadow people in different fields I was interested in and ask lots of questions! Connecting with people and having a curiosity in life will open doors you didn't even know existed! Best advice: take action, just start!