ATSU-KCOM’s Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences programs provides foundation for success
Posted: January 14, 2025
Isabelle Donjoian was looking for a way to improve her application as a candidate for dental school. A.T. Still University-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine’s (ATSU-KCOM) Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences (MSBMS) program has delivered on that and more.
“I hope to enter dental school in 2025, and when I graduate serve underserved populations,” she said. “ATSU has helped me become a more competitive and well-rounded applicant for dental school through completion of research, shadowing alumni, leadership opportunities, volunteering in the community, and mentorship with faculty.”
Donjoian is from St. Charles, Missouri, and has a bachelor’s degree from Missouri State University, where she majored in cell and molecular biology and minored in chemistry and biomedical science. Seeking a master’s degree to better her application to dental school, she found ATSU-KCOM’s MSBMS program.
Donjoian noted how friendly everyone was during her application process, and has enjoyed her time in the program so far. Student life on ATSU’s Kirksville, Missouri campus has also contributed to her positive experience.
“I enjoy the faculty-student relationships and how friendly all the professors are,” she said. “I also enjoy competing in intramural sports with the other programs. It’s a great way to make friends and play a sport you love!”
Outside of class, Donjoian enjoys yoga, soccer, weight lifting, caring for her houseplants, watching reality TV, and spending time with her toy poodle puppy.
She’s also taken advantage of the many club opportunities at ATSU and serves as president of the Biomedical Science Club, Rotary liaison for ATSU Rotaract, research committee chair for the Student Government Association, and KCOM research liaison for Council of Osteopathic Student Government Presidents.
“Rotaract connects students with members of Kirksville Rotary Club, with the motto ‘Service Above Self,’ to provide funding to things like Shoes for Orphan Souls and End Polio Now,” she said. “The Biomedical Science Club allows me to connect with the students in my program to plan fun events like our professor appreciation dinner!”