ATSU-ASDOH student says feeling of family, inclusivity is present in Mesa from Day 1
Posted: January 19, 2023
Schools often boast about a feeling of family and inclusivity which develops amongst students, faculty, and staff. At A.T. Still University’s Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health (ATSU-ASDOH), student Phillip Fromm, D2, said that feeling is a reality from Day 1.
“The first day of orientation, we were told the competition was over, and they were right,” Fromm said. “Everyone, no matter what class they are in, is always willing to offer a helping hand and ensure that you succeed as a student and as a person.
“One of my favorite things about being an ATSU student is I am always treated more so as a colleague than as a student. Everyone, including faculty, is able to learn and grow together, and it really feels like a family.”
Fromm didn’t need to venture far from his home in Phoenix to find ATSU-ASDOH, but it wasn’t proximity which led him to selecting the School after completing a bachelor of science in physiology from the University of Arizona Honors College.
“I chose ATSU because of its commitment to public health and community service,” Fromm said. “As an undergraduate student I was fortunate to be able to participate in ASDOH’s Give Kids A Smile Day, in which hundreds of underprivileged children are able to receive free dental care at the School. I loved not only the philanthropic aspect of this event, but was also blown away by the inclusiveness and camaraderie of the ATSU-ASDOH students and staff. Having attended ATSU for over two years now, I can honestly say it has felt like a home since Day 1.”
Fromm is an active student, serving as an executive board member of the American Dental Education Association – Arizona Chapter, and member of the Academy of General Dentists, American Student Dental Association, National Student Dental Association, and Periodontics Club.
“The field of dentistry requires us to be lifelong learners,” Fromm said. “I joined these organizations to continue learning about our profession and network with other students and faculty to engage in conversation about current issues that affect our community, as well as how we can better serve our patients. By being active in these organizations I feel I am able to maximize my education at ATSU and set myself up for success after graduation.”
He also serves as an ATSU-ASDOH student ambassador. Fromm recalled his own application process as one of the most challenging endeavors of his life, and sought a way to actively engage with pre-dental students facing the same experiences.
“I was once in their shoes, and I find fulfillment in helping them achieve their goals and find the school that will challenge them to be the best doctor and person they can possibly be,” Fromm said.
In his free time, Fromm loves the outdoors, hiking, camping, and skiing. He’s also engaged and plans to marry “my best friend in the whole world” in March. The couple enjoys traveling and playing with their French bulldog, Tyson.
Upon graduation from ATSU-ASDOH, Fromm plans to open a private practice where he will put the ATSU mission to work, with service to his community at the forefront.
“ATSU is helping me prepare to achieve this goal in multiple ways, including offering invaluable mentorship, promoting networking opportunities, and emphasizing my clinical education. I am confident that upon graduation, ATSU will have prepared me to compassionately and empathetically serve any patient that walks into my office to the best of my ability,” Fromm said.