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Karamvir Thind is earning a DMD and an MPH at ATSU-MOSDOH – Here’s why she chose community dentistry

Karamvir Thind is a student in the A.T. Still University-Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health’s (ATSU-MOSDOH) Advanced Standing International Dentist (ASID) program, pursuing her Doctor of Dental Medicine and Master of Public Health-Dental Emphasis degrees, with an expected graduation date of May 2027. 

Originally from Ludhiana, Punjab, India, she now calls Sacramento, California home. Thind earned her bachelor of dental surgery from Baba Jaswant Singh Dental College and Hospital, affiliated with Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, before bringing her clinical background and prior experience to ATSU-MOSDOH. 

She was drawn to the program by its community-based clinical education model, its partnership with Affinia Healthcare, and its alignment with her long-term goal of serving in a leadership role in community dentistry. 

She serves as the ASID Representative for the ATSU-MOSDOH chapter of the American Student Dental Association (ASDA).

Why did you choose the DMD program at ATSU-MOSDOH?

“I chose A.T. Still University-Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health because of its strong commitment to serving underserved communities and its unique community-based clinical education model. The opportunity to train in real-world settings through its partnership with Affinia Healthcare allows me to work with diverse patient populations and better understand barriers to care.

“Additionally, ATSU’s emphasis on whole person healthcare, public health integration, and cultural competency aligns with my long-term plan to serve in a leadership role at a Federally Qualified Health Center. The supportive faculty and mentorship-driven environment further made it the ideal place for me to grow both as a clinician and a future leader in dentistry.”

What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?

“I enjoy being a student at A.T. Still University-Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health because of its supportive learning environment and strong focus on community-based care. The faculty are approachable and mentorship-driven, which supports both academic and clinical growth.

“Student life is very engaging, with opportunities to participate in community outreach events and collaborative learning experiences. Participating in free dental clinics, health fairs, and school-based screenings allows us to witness the impact of accessible healthcare firsthand while serving diverse communities.”

What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-MOSDOH helping prepare you for your career?

“I hope to pursue a career in community-based dentistry and take on a leadership role at a Federally Qualified Health Center, focusing on improving access to care.

A.T. Still University-Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health is preparing me for this through its community-based clinical training and emphasis on whole-person healthcare. My experience working with diverse patient populations, along with my MPH training, is helping me build both clinical and public health skills for my future career.”

Why did you choose to get involved in student organizations?

“I joined the Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health ASDA to become more involved in organized dentistry and to connect with peers who share similar goals. As the Advanced Standing International Dentist Representative, I help represent and support international dental students within our program.

“Through ASDA, I have enjoyed opportunities for leadership development, advocacy, and collaboration. The organization provides valuable exposure to current issues in dentistry, promotes student involvement at both the local and national levels, and encourages service and outreach activities. Being a part of ASDA has helped me grow professionally while allowing me to contribute to the student community.”

Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?

“I became a student ambassador to represent my program and share my journey with prospective students, especially those from international backgrounds. As someone who has navigated the transition into dentistry in the United States, I value the opportunity to guide and support others who may be considering a similar path.

“I enjoy serving in this role because it allows me to connect with future students, answer their questions, and provide honest insights about the program and student experience. It is rewarding to contribute to a welcoming and supportive environment while representing the values and mission of A.T. Still University-Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health.”

What are some of your interests and hobbies outside of ATSU?

“Outside of ATSU, I enjoy traveling and exploring new places, which helps me learn about different cultures and perspectives. I also have a strong interest in fine arts, particularly paintings and interior design, as they allow me to express creativity and maintain balance alongside my academic responsibilities.

“In terms of achievements, I take pride in my previous experience working in a Federally Qualified Health Center, where I was able to contribute to patient care and gain valuable exposure to community-based dentistry. This experience continues to shape my professional goals and commitment to serving diverse populations.”

A.T. Still University of Health Sciences (ATSU) is pleased to announce alumna Deanna Hunsaker, DHEd, MBA, ’08, has been appointed as vice chancellor for student affairs, effective July 1, 2026.

Dr. Hunsaker has served with distinction as interim vice chancellor for student affairs since May 1, 2025.

With a proven track record of leadership and success in higher education administration, Dr. Hunsaker provides strategic leadership for the University’s student affairs division. She will continue to oversee Admissions, Enrollment Services, Learning Resources & Accommodation Services, Behavioral Health & Wellness, Student Wellness, and Student Life, ensuring these areas work together to support student success.

“Please join me in congratulating Dr. Hunsaker on this well-deserved appointment,” said ATSU Chancellor Craig M. Phelps, DO, ’84. “I appreciate the outstanding leadership she has already demonstrated in her interim role, and I am confident that her deep institutional knowledge, collaborative leadership, and unwavering dedication to our students will continue to benefit ATSU for years to come.”

Since joining the ATSU community in 2005, Dr. Hunsaker has served in several key leadership roles, including associate dean, registrar, assistant vice president of enrollment services, and assistant vice chancellor of enrollment services. Throughout her tenure, she has provided strategic leadership in enrollment management, financial aid, academic records, regulatory compliance, and institutional planning while advancing innovative solutions to support ATSU’s diverse academic programs.

Dr. Hunsaker earned her bachelor’s degree in history with a minor in psychology from Truman State University, her master of business administration degree from William Woods University, and her doctor of health education degree from ATSU.

Her commitment to higher education extends beyond ATSU. She serves on the editorial board for The Successful Registrar and has been a peer reviewer for the Higher Learning Commission since 2021. In 2024, she was selected as an independent consultant with Blue Icon Advisors, the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators’ consulting service, where she assists colleges and universities in strengthening their financial aid operations.

Mariam Wahba, D2, is a student in the A.T. Still University Missouri School of Dentistry and Oral Health (ATSU-MOSDOH) Doctor of Dental Medicine program, class of 2028. A native of Clearwater, Florida, she earned her bachelor of science in biomedical sciences with a minor in psychology from the University of South Florida in 2023. 

Wahba was drawn to ATSU-MOSDOH by its mission of serving underserved communities, its focus on whole person healthcare, and its strong emphasis on clinical experience with diverse patient populations. She recently was elected secretary of the American Student Dental Association and events chair of the American Dental Education Association.

Why did you choose the DMD program at ATSU-MOSDOH?

“I chose ATSU-MOSDOH because I connected with the School’s mission of serving underserved communities and focusing on whole person healthcare. I also liked that the program places a strong emphasis on clinical experience and preparing students to treat real patients with confidence. The opportunity to complete rotations in community health centers and gain experience working with different patient populations was something that really stood out to me. Overall, I felt like ATSU would give me the training and experience I need to become a well rounded dentist.”

What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?

“One thing I enjoy about being an ATSU student is the opportunity to focus on developing the clinical and academic skills needed to become a dentist. Dental school is definitely challenging, but it has helped me grow both professionally and personally. I spend most of my time studying, practicing in simulation lab, and preparing for exams, which has helped me build a strong foundation for my future career. Being in a program that is focused on training competent and compassionate dentists has been a very valuable experience for me.”

What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-MOSDOH helping prepare you for your career?

“Professionally, I hope to become a successful dentist who provides great care to patients and helps improve access to oral healthcare. ATSU is helping prepare me for this through strong clinical training, hands-on experience, and opportunities to work with different communities. The program is giving me the knowledge and skills I need to feel confident going into my future career.”

What are some of your interests and hobbies outside of ATSU?

“Outside of school, I enjoy spending time at the beach, tanning, and watching the sunset. I also like going out to restaurants and trying new food. Another thing I enjoy is shopping and going to the mall. These things help me relax and take a break from the busy schedule of dental school.”

A.T. Still University-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM) class of 2028 members marked their transition from didactic to clinical years with a special ceremony in May, and students pinned their peers with The Arnold P. Gold Foundation’s Humanism in Medicine pins, an organization which champions humanism in healthcare.

Students heard remarks from ATSU-KCOM faculty and staff, and recited their class pledge as part of the event.

Olivia Kellogg, PA, ’27, is a student in the A.T. Still University-Arizona School of Health Sciences (ATSU-ASHS) Physician Assistant program, class of 2027. A native of Long Beach, California, she earned her bachelor of science in public health sciences from the University of California, Irvine in 2024. 

Kellogg was drawn to ATSU-ASHS by its mission-driven emphasis on serving underserved communities and its intentional focus on health disparities and preventive care, values that align closely with her public health background and volunteer experience in rural settings. She serves as a student ambassador for the PA program.

Why did you choose the PA program at ATSU-ASHS?

“I chose ATSU because of its deep-rooted dedication to serving underserved communities, particularly within primary care. With my public health background and volunteer experience in rural communities, I knew I wanted to be in a program that not only teaches clinical medicine, but intentionally emphasizes health disparities and preventive care in their curriculum. It was clear from the start that ATSU’s mission aligned perfectly with my professional goals.”

What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?

“What I enjoy most about being an ATSU student is being able to rely on friends, faculty, and other classmates for support. Our cohort really feels like one big family, and it really shows that we are all in it together.”

What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-ASHS helping prepare you for your career?

“My goal is to become a PA in primary care and work with underserved populations through both my practice and volunteering. ATSU is helping me prepare for this goal by teaching us how to provide high quality care, especially in rural areas where resources are limited.”

Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?

“I became a student ambassador because I am passionate about advocating for the PA profession and helping applicants navigate the daunting process of getting into school. When I was an applicant, I found the student ambassadors to be very warm and welcoming, which helped me feel even more drawn to ATSU. I wanted to do the same for prospective students by serving as a helpful resource for them.”

What are some of your interests and hobbies outside of ATSU?

“Outside of ATSU, I enjoy playing pickleball and tennis, hiking, and traveling. I also love discovering new coffee shops and local food spots.”

Wishing you and your family a safe and happy Independence Day!

In observance of the Fourth of July holiday, ATSU offices and patient care centers in Kirksville, Missouri; Mesa, Arizona; Santa Maria, California; and St. Louis, Missouri, will be closed on Friday, July 3, 2026. Facility access will be limited.

The Kirksville Thompson Campus Center will be closed on Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4.

To view library hours at each location, please click here.

Yours in service,

Craig M. Phelps, DO, ’84
Chancellor

Shannon Buehre, OMS II, is a student in A.T. Still University’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM) class of 2028. A native of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, she graduated magna cum laude from Missouri Western State University in 2023 with a bachelor of science in biology and minors in chemistry and wellness. 

Buehre was drawn to ATSU-KCOM by its emphasis on hands-on clinical training, early exposure to tools like ultrasound and human patient simulation, and its strong culture of student support and wellness. She is deeply involved in campus life, serving as chapter president of the Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons (MAOPS), secretary of the Student Osteopathic Medical Association, treasurer of Still Kids, a member of the Still Caring Health Connections finance committee and Global Health Club, a Mental Health Ambassador, and an HPS Lab Coordinator for the student ambassador program.

Why did you choose the DO program at ATSU-KCOM?

“I chose ATSU-KCOM because it felt like a place that truly focuses on preparing students to become physicians. I was drawn to the school’s emphasis on hands-on learning and developing clinical skills early on in the curriculum. One aspect I’ve especially appreciated is the Human Patient Simulation lab, where we can apply what we learn in the classroom to realistic clinical scenarios. I also value the ultrasound curriculum, which gives students early exposure to tools that are increasingly important in modern clinical practice.

“I was also drawn to the collaborative and supportive environment among students and faculty. Throughout my time here, I’ve had opportunities to grow as a leader, get involved in advocacy and service organizations, and work alongside classmates who are passionate about improving patient care. Another aspect that stands out to me is ATSU’s strong commitment to student wellness. As a Mental Health Ambassador, I’ve enjoyed helping promote resources that support student well-being, and programs like campus exercise classes and the student dog park make it easier to maintain balance during medical school.”

What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?

“I really enjoy the collaborative and supportive environment at ATSU. From Day 1, students and faculty have been welcoming, encouraging, and eager to help one another succeed. One memorable example was last year on my birthday when Ramey, our spin class instructor, organized a birthday spin class for me, which made me feel truly celebrated and supported.

“I also love the lighthearted side of student life. My dog won the Halloween costume contest in October, which was a fun reminder of how the community connects and celebrates outside the classroom. Beyond moments like these, I enjoy participating in student organizations, wellness activities, and service opportunities. Workout classes, the HPS lab, advocacy events, and mission trips have all made my experience at ATSU enriching and rewarding, while fostering lasting connections with peers who share my passion for medicine and service.”

What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-KCOM helping prepare you for your career?

“I hope to become a compassionate and skilled physician who provides excellent patient care and advocates for my patients and community. While I’m still exploring which specialty I’ll pursue, I know I want to practice medicine in a way that combines clinical expertise with service, leadership, and mentorship.

“ATSU is helping prepare me by emphasizing hands-on learning, osteopathic principles, and whole-person care. Experiences like the HPS lab, the ultrasound curriculum, and involvement in student organizations such as MAOPS and Global Health Club have strengthened my clinical skills, leadership abilities, and understanding of advocacy and community service. The supportive environment at ATSU encourages me to grow into a well-rounded physician ready to meet the challenges of modern healthcare.”

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Why did you choose to get involved in student organizations?

“I joined these organizations to become more involved in the osteopathic community and to contribute to initiatives that support both medical students and the patients we serve.

“Through MAOPS, I have had the opportunity to engage with osteopathic advocacy, leadership, and professional development. Most recently, I helped lead a group of students to Jefferson City for Physician Advocacy Day, where we met with Missouri legislators and discussed issues impacting physicians and patient care. I have also worked with MAOPS’ Young Physician Network, where I hosted a podcast episode and created a tutorial on how to listen to heart sounds. I am also a Wetzel Scholar Candidate and was inducted at the MAOPS Annual Convention in April 2026, a program focused on developing future physician leaders in advocacy and organized medicine.

“I also value being involved in organizations focused on service and outreach. Through Still Kids, I help support initiatives that provide resources for children in the community, including volunteering as a tutor at the local high school. With Still Caring Health Connections, we work to support the organization’s mission of providing healthcare services to underserved populations in the area.

“Through Global Health Club, I had the opportunity to travel to Vietnam on a medical mission trip, where I participated in clinical outreach and conducted research. Experiences like this have reinforced my interest in service and global health while working alongside classmates and physicians in resource-limited settings.”

Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?

“I became a student ambassador because I enjoy helping prospective students learn about ATSU-KCOM and see what makes it such a special place to train as a physician. As an HPS lab coordinator, I lead demonstrations on interview days, giving students a hands-on look at our simulation labs and the kind of practical skills they’ll develop here. I also enjoy answering questions about life at ATSU and sharing my personal experiences, especially when people ask, ‘Why did you choose ATSU?’

“What I enjoy most about this role is connecting with future students and helping them picture themselves here. It’s really rewarding to show them both the academic opportunities and the supportive, collaborative community that makes ATSU so special.”

What are some of your interests and hobbies outside of ATSU?

“Outside of ATSU, I enjoy staying active, being creative, and spending time with my dog. I regularly attend spin class at the Thompson Campus Center and take my dog to the student dog park or Thousand Hills State Park, which helps me balance the demands of medical school. Playing lacrosse was also a big part of my life before medical school, and I still love sports. I enjoy traveling and exploring new places whenever I have the chance, and in my downtime, embroidery and crochet help me relax and stay creative.”

A.T. Still University-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine’s (ATSU-KCOM) Jeff Davis, DO, CMD, ’00, assistant dean, clinical affairs, was named the 2026 Wilbur T. Hill, DO, Distinguished Service Award winner by the Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons (MAOPS). 

The award is MAOPS’ highest honor and recognizes extraordinary commitment, leadership, and service to the osteopathic profession.

“Dr. Davis exemplifies the very essence of this award,” said MAOPS Executive Director Brian Bowles. “His leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to our mission make him not only a distinguished physician but also a role model for our entire profession.”

Dr. Davis has been a long-time leader and advocate within MAOPS and is one of the youngest recipients of this award. Historically, the honor has been bestowed upon individuals nearing the culmination of their careers. However, this year’s selection underscores a different narrative, recognizing a physician whose impactful contributions are already profound and whose leadership continues to shape the profession’s future.

A member of MAOPS for decades, Dr. Davis was among the organization’s earliest Wetzel Scholars in 1998. Since then, he has demonstrated unwavering dedication, serving in numerous leadership roles across virtually every committee within the organization. He currently chairs the Finance and Audit Committee and remains actively involved in advancing MAOPS initiatives.

Dr. Davis has also played a pivotal role at the national level, serving as a delegate to the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) for over 20 years. In 2017, he served as president of MAOPS and continues to lend his expertise through ongoing committee work and leadership contributions.

Widely recognized for his advocacy, Dr. Davis has been instrumental in shaping healthcare policy at both the state and national levels. He is known for building strong, lasting relationships with state and federal legislators, who frequently seek insight on key healthcare issues. His proactive engagement ensures that the voice of osteopathic physicians remains influential in policy discussions.

In addition to his work within MAOPS, Dr. Davis currently serves on the AOA Board of Trustees, where he recently led the organization’s Strategic Planning Process. He also has served in back-to-back years as the chair of the AOA’s Committee on AOA Governance and Organizational Structure. In this capacity, he continues to champion the priorities and perspectives of MAOPS and the osteopathic medical profession on a national stage.

Chidalu Mbonu, PA, ’26, is a student in the A.T. Still University-College for Healthy Communities (ATSU-CHC) Central Coast Physician Assistant (CCPA) program, class of 2026. A native of Montgomery County, Maryland, she brings an exceptional academic foundation to her PA training, earning a bachelor of science in public health from the University of Maryland, College Park in 2021, followed by a master of public health in health policy and clinical practice from the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth in 2023. 

Mbonu was drawn to ATSU-CHC by its commitment to whole person healthcare and its mission to serve underserved communities, values she has carried throughout her academic and professional journey. She serves as co-moderator of the Fellowship of Christian Physician Associates, a peer mentor, an elected AAPA Student Academy Representative, a 2025–2026 Student Academy Delegate to the AAPA House of Delegates, and a student ambassador.

Why did you choose the PA program at ATSU’s College for Healthy Communities?

“I chose ATSU-CHC because of its strong commitment to whole person healthcare and its mission to serve underserved communities. As someone with a background in public health, I was drawn to ATSU’s emphasis on integrating medical science with community-oriented care. The program’s rigorous clinical training and focus on compassionate, patient-centered medicine aligned closely with my goals of becoming a clinician who not only treats disease but also addresses the broader social and public health factors that influence health outcomes.”

What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?

“One of the things I enjoy most about being an ATSU student is the opportunity to give back through volunteering. I participate in the Dreamline Pathways program, where I help introduce high school students to the PA profession and encourage them to pursue career paths that empower them and their families. Through this program, I hope to inspire them to dream boldly and believe in the possibilities ahead of them. I also participate in community service through student government, such as packing school supplies for school-age children to support their learning. These experiences make the journey through PA school both rewarding and meaningful.”

What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU helping prepare you for your career?

“Professionally, I hope to practice medicine in a way that integrates clinical care with a broader understanding of public health and the social factors that influence health outcomes. I aspire to contribute to healthcare not only by treating illness but also by promoting prevention, education, and community well-being. ATSU is preparing me for this path through rigorous clinical training and an emphasis on whole person care, which encourages us to consider the biological, psychological, spiritual, social, and environmental factors that shape health. Through my education and clinical experiences at ATSU, I am developing the knowledge, skills, and perspective needed to serve patients thoughtfully and compassionately.”

Why did you choose to get involved in student organizations?

“I enjoy representing the student body and ensuring that every voice is heard and thoughtfully advocated for. Through my role as SGA’s AAPA Student Academy Representative and as a 2025–2026 Student Academy Delegate to the AAPA House of Delegates, I am able to promote justice, equity, and transparency in student representation while helping to strengthen communication between students and leadership at both the program and national levels.

In the midst of the many demands of PA school, it is always uplifting to gather with classmates who share the same faith. Our Fellowship of Christian Physician Associates provides a space for prayer, reflection, encouragement, and worship, reminding us to remain grounded in our purpose to serve others through medicine.

As for peer mentoring and serving as a student ambassador, there were times when navigating the PA school application process felt daunting because I did not personally know anyone who could guide me or explain what to expect. Through social media, I was able to connect with PA students and graduates willing to share their experiences, but there were also many messages that never received responses. Because of this, I make it a priority to volunteer as a mentor and ambassador so that prospective, incoming, and first-year students always have someone they can reach out to for guidance and encouragement.”

What are some of your interests and hobbies outside of ATSU?

“Outside of ATSU, I enjoy writing and reflecting on issues related to healthcare, public health, the evolving role of medical professionals, and public policy. I recently had the opportunity to publish an article discussing the role of physician associates in medicine, which allowed me to contribute to broader conversations within the healthcare community. I also enjoy learning about different cultures through food and spending time with family and friends. These experiences help me maintain perspective and remind me that within our differences lie many shared similarities.”

Guillermo Flores Aguilar, PA, ’27, is a student in the A.T. Still University-Arizona School of Health Sciences (ATSU-ASHS) Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program. A native of El Paso, Texas, he earned his bachelor of science in biology with a biomedical sciences concentration and double minors in chemistry and biomedical engineering from the University of Texas at El Paso. 

Before coming to ATSU, Flores Aguilar built an extensive clinical background as a multi-skilled technician, anesthesia technician, surgical tech, and lead cath lab tech, gaining hands-on experience across orthopedics, cardiology, and cardiovascular care in hospital and traveling surgical settings throughout Texas. He now serves as president of the PA Student Government Association Kettel Society and as a student ambassador, and is currently founding four new PA student organizations as part of his class legacy.

Why did you choose the PA program at ATSU-ASHS?

“I chose ATSU because it simply made sense to me for the kind of provider I wish to become and how I want to impact my community, due to its renowned reputation nationally throughout the medical community of consistently producing and molding excellent community-oriented practitioners in the osteopathic heritage that focus on whole person healthcare. I wanted to personally immerse myself in a program that honors and highlights the same three core values that have exemplified my atypical path to PA school: experience, example, and excellence. I hope to use my experiences to serve and give back to bilingual communities of underserved populations through leading by example as the next generation of PAs that strive to assimilate the ATSU ‘body, mind, and spirit’ philosophy of team-centered medicine.”

What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?

“What I enjoy most about being an ATSU student is how genuinely connected our community is. It doesn’t feel like I’m just enrolled in a program, it feels like I’m part of a close-knit family where students, faculty, and staff all show up for each other. PA school is intense, but at ATSU you never feel like you’re doing it alone. There’s always support around you, whether that’s faculty who truly want you to succeed, classmates who have your back, or resources like counseling and tutoring that are actually encouraged and easy to access.

“Student life here is also active and meaningful, and it really brings people together. We stay grounded in service through community outreach and volunteering, which reminds us why we chose medicine in the first place. The Diversity Festival and student-led events like Hispanic Heritage Month and Black History Month have impacted our program as a whole, diving deep into each other’s cultures in ways that unite us in sharing and understanding what makes us truly alike. Interdisciplinary events like Founder’s Day, PA Basketball Games, and PA vs. PT Pickleball and Powderpuff Football tournaments build camaraderie across all our programs. We’ve also had huge pride moments, like defending our title by winning the ASAPA Challenge Bowl for the second consecutive year. On top of that, Lunch and Learns give us the chance to connect with ATSU alumni, clinicians, and faculty in a way that feels approachable and practical. Overall, ATSU has this balance of hard work, service, culture, and genuine support, and to me that’s what home should always feel like.”

What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-ASHS helping prepare you for your career?

“With my prior roles focused in pre-op/OR, anesthesia/PACU, and surgical care, I saw firsthand the importance of every individual’s respective task and how it aligns toward the uniform purpose of playing your role on a clinical team to ensure the patient’s overall success. I would love to be a versatile PA throughout my career – providing primary care with consultations to diagnose, while also lending a steady hand first-assisting in the OR in either cardiothoracic or cardiovascular specialties.

“I am privileged to learn from faculty who teach unique approaches to treating patients from all different ages, races, and backgrounds. I will utilize my diverse upbringing and life experiences, along with the innovative strategies offered at ATSU, to advance our shared commitment to increased access to higher quality medical care for bilingual communities of Arizona and along the U.S.-Mexico borderland. Whatever my future holds, I know ATSU will give me the tools necessary to help bridge the physician shortage gap in serving diverse rural settings and medically underserved communities all over the border region, which I, along with thousands, proudly call home.”

Why did you choose to get involved in student leadership and founding new organizations?

“What I enjoy most about being class president is realizing that leadership in PA school isn’t about having a title, it’s about creating a sense of belonging in an endeavor that can feel overwhelming and isolating. I love being able to connect people and help classmates feel seen, supported, and heard, especially on the hard weeks when everyone’s running on caffeine and pure grit. Whether it’s organizing something that brings us together, advocating for what our cohort needs, or simply being a steady point of communication, it’s meaningful to know I’m helping build a culture where we don’t just survive PA school, we absolutely crush it and do it together as a team. Watching this cohort grow into incredibly diverse future clinicians, and knowing I played even a small part in strengthening our community, is what makes it worth it.”

Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?

“I became a student ambassador because of the impact they made on me since Day 1 during my interview as a nervous prospective PA student. They were a big part of my decision to come to ATSU, which I now know is the best place for me to be successful. I have enjoyed being a helpful resource for others and giving back in the same way, especially for students who are moving to a new city or state to pursue their dream career, as I had to do. Whether giving campus tours or offering transparent feedback on interview days, I have enjoyed representing ATSU to prospective students who will soon be in my position. We were all in their shoes at some point, and it’s humbling and extremely rewarding to know you may have been a positive part of their journey.”

What are some of your interests and hobbies outside of ATSU?

“I love spending time with my family and classmates outside of school. My hobbies include watching and playing sports, going to the gym, listening to music, singing, dancing, and traveling. My favorite hobby is playing basketball with my mentor on the weekends. I’m also planning to get involved with YMCA Mesa/Gilbert Youth Sports development programs so I can continue coaching basketball, something I did for five years in El Paso. I wholeheartedly believe that teaching young people the importance of teamwork through sports is one of the best ways to give back to the next generation of our communities.”

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