Bridging the gap: ATSU-ASHS educates future physician assistants for rural healthcare success
Bri Corey is a student in the A.T. Still University-Arizona School of Health Sciences (ATSU-ASHS) Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program, class of 2027. Corey, originally from Acton, California, came to ATSU after graduating from Colorado Mesa University in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in exercise science and a minor in business administration. Drawn to the University’s mission of serving underserved populations, Corey found a welcoming community that felt like home from her very first interview.
Why did you choose the PA program at ATSU-ASHS?
“I chose ATSU-ASHS because of its mission of serving underserved populations through a whole person healthcare approach. Being from a rural community with limited resources I felt that my passions aligned with the mission of ATSU. From the minute I stepped foot on campus for my interview, the faculty and staff made ATSU feel like home. As I toured the campus with ambassadors, I knew that ATSU was where I wanted to be.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“What I love about being an ATSU student is how much ATSU strives to foster a sense of community amongst the students. From the faculty and staff, to students of other departments, down to the PA department, ATSU feels like one big family. The professional degrees that ATSU offers are no easy feat and can be challenging, but getting to come to campus and feel like I am at home makes the hard days much easier.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-ASHS helping prepare you for your career?
“Beyond becoming a physician assistant, I am passionate about starting a nonprofit organization in the future to help victims of accidents caused by drivers under the influence, as well as their families. Having personally experienced a life changing situation of this nature I hope to help others navigate the medical, emotional, and legal challenges that often follow.
“In the future, I hope to help fill the gaps in healthcare in rural communities of Arizona as a physician assistant. I have a passion for helping rural communities like the one I was raised in and inspiring residents of those communities to be proactive about seeking healthcare. ATSU is helping me prepare for my passions by providing me with an osteopathic education that will allow me to treat the whole person and navigate the unique hardships my future patients may be facing, and to provide them with reasonable and achievable solutions.”
You are the Leadership and Professional Development chair of the PA class of 2027 with the Kettel Society. Why did you choose to join this student organization?
“I joined Kettel Society as the Leadership and Professional Development chair because of my background in business and passion for networking. As the Leadership and Professional Development chair, I network with practicing PAs and arrange events for them to come to campus and speak with my classmates about their experiences surrounding the PA profession and their careers. This opportunity has allowed me to meet so many inspiring physician assistants and provide my classmates with valuable resources for professional development.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I became a student ambassador because I have a passion for helping individuals from similar backgrounds as me learn more about the PA profession, and providing them with resources to be successful in applications, interviews, and their education. Being from a rural community and the first person in my family to go into healthcare, the PA profession was something I had not heard about until I was a few years into my undergraduate degree. Having to navigate the PA school application and interview process was foreign to me. I spent countless hours researching the process and how to be successful, even contacting the ATSU ambassadors myself as a prospective student.
“This inspired me to join the student ambassador program so I could provide prospective students with the same valuable information that was provided to me. It is such a rewarding experience to be on the journey with prospective students who possess so much passion for becoming physician assistants as they go through the application and interview process, and then following up with them again to congratulate them on their acceptance.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“My hobbies include spending time with my family, friends, and rescue dog, Jinx. While completing my undergraduate degree, my family moved from California to Lake Havasu City, Arizona, and I love visiting them to spend time on the lake, in the mountains, and exploring everything the area has to offer. Arizona provides countless opportunities for both professional growth and adventure and I love being able to call it home.”
Tate Buchanan, OMS I, arrived at A.T. Still University’s School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona (ATSU-SOMA) after graduating from Colorado Mesa University in 2023 with a degree in exercise science. Originally from Grand Junction, Colorado, he was drawn to the School’s commitment to serving underserved populations and its deep history in osteopathic medicine.
As a student ambassador, he is passionate about helping prospective students navigate the decision to pursue medical school and find a supportive, collaborative community.
Why did you choose ATSU-SOMA?
“I chose ATSU-SOMA for its strong sense of community, its mission to serve underserved populations, and its deep history in osteopathic medicine. The supportive, collaborative environment and meaningful clinical exposure within diverse communities made ATSU the ideal place for me to grow.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“I enjoy the collaboration between different programs and organizations, as well as the strong sense of community at ATSU. Everyone is friendly, supportive, and motivated by similar goals, which creates an environment where we continuously push each other to be our best.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-SOMA helping prepare you for your career?
“I hope to pursue a career in orthopedic surgery to help patients regain function and mobility. ATSU-SOMA has supported me through a collaborative learning environment and early hands-on clinical experiences that will help me build a strong foundation for my future career.”
You are president of the Student American Osteopathic Academy of Orthopedics (SAOAO). Why did you choose to join this student organization?
“I joined the orthopedic surgery club because that is what I aspire to do. I find many aspects of orthopedic surgery to be very interesting and fun. We host Q&As with residents, are planning a splint/casting workshop, and looking to get involved with the local orthopedic community.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“Medical school is a big decision. I wanted to help prospective students see what ATSU-SOMA has to offer and help them make an informed decision. I also just enjoy making connections and talking to people.”
Osteopathic Family Physician of the Year is the highest and most coveted award given by MSACOFP.
Dr. Wilson was noted for her service to the Kirksville community for decades, shaping the Missouri family medicine workforce in immeasurable ways.
Kailey Lynch, PA, ’26, a student in the A.T. Still University-College for Healthy Communities (ATSU-CHC) Central Coast Physician Assistant (CCPA) program, is dedicated to addressing healthcare disparities. A graduate of California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, with a bachelor of science in public health, Lynch was driven to become a physician assistant after witnessing significant barriers to healthcare access while working in primary care on California’s Central Coast.
Lynch is deeply committed to professional advocacy and mentorship. As a student ambassador, she bridges the gap between prospective students and the program’s mission of strengthening the local healthcare workforce. In this Q&A, Lynch discusses her passion for osteopathic, whole person healthcare and her goal of empowering underserved communities.
Why did you choose the CCPA program at ATSU-CHC?
“After graduating from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, California, and working in primary care throughout the Central Coast, I witnessed firsthand the significant barriers to healthcare access that many members of this community face. These experiences deeply shaped my desire to become a PA and address these disparities.
“When ATSU launched its Central Coast Physician Assistant program, I was excited to see an institution directly respond to the region’s healthcare needs by training providers where they’re most needed. I chose this program because it aligned with my passion for improving access to care and represented a commitment to strengthening the Central Coast’s healthcare workforce.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU-CHC CCPA student?
“The ATSU-CHC CCPA program cultivates a close knit, supportive student community. What I value most are the friendships, mentorship, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. As a student, I rely on my peers and learn from faculty who are greatly invested in our success. I enjoy diving into the medicine and science behind patient care so I can become the most capable PA possible. Working through rigorous material together reflects the collaborative nature of the PA profession, and that spirit of teamwork is embedded in our program.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU helping prepare you for your career?
“Professionally, I hope to practice osteopathic, whole person healthcare while serving as a strong advocate for my patients and their communities. I’m looking to build a career that allows me to continue growing through hands-on clinical practice. I’m also interested in potentially becoming involved in academic medicine in the future so I can contribute to training and mentoring the next generation of providers.”
You are a representative with the California Academy of Physician Associates (CAPA) and tutor with ATSU’s Peer-Assisted Learning (PAL) program. Why did you choose to join these different student organizations?
“I had the opportunity to serve as a CAPA representative to become more involved in professional advocacy and student engagement within the PA community. I enjoy connecting classmates with resources and opportunities while helping amplify the student voice. It’s been a valuable way to grow as a leader beyond the classroom.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I chose to become a student ambassador because I benefited greatly from mentorship and guidance on my own path to PA school, and I wanted the opportunity to provide that same support to others. I take pride in representing a mission-focused program and enjoy connecting with prospective students who are in the same position I once was. Being able to share my experiences, answer their questions, and help guide them through the process is both meaningful and rewarding.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“Outside of ATSU, I enjoy traveling, spending time outdoors, and wakeboarding whenever I have the opportunity. I also enjoy trying new sushi restaurants and exploring local food spots. I value staying active and, most importantly, spending quality time with friends and loved ones. Those moments help me stay balanced and grounded during the demands of PA school.”
A.T. Still University (ATSU) students, faculty, and staff in Kirksville, Missouri, reached out to more than 200 of ATSU’s generous donors on April 7 during Thank-a-Donor Day, organized by University Advancement.
The event aimed to recognize ATSU alumni and friends who give back to support student and faculty success, sharing stories about the powerful impact they have through handwritten notes, phone calls, and video messages.
In this Q&A, Chong discusses the importance of professional soft skills, the value of a supportive campus community, and her goals for becoming a well-rounded practitioner.
Why did you choose the MSOT program at ATSU-ASHS?
“I was really drawn by ATSU’s vision statement, as it highlights ATSU’s role as a leading innovator in health professions education while prioritizing diversity among students, faculty, and staff.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“What I enjoy most about being an ATSU student is how much the school truly prioritizes student well-being and mental health. We are often reminded to take time for ourselves and maintain balance outside of academics, which is especially important in a demanding graduate program. ATSU also creates a strong sense of community by organizing fun, low-stress events such as hot chocolate days, craft days, and flower bouquet-making events, etc. These moments allow students to decompress, connect with one another, and feel genuinely supported beyond the classroom.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-ASHS helping prepare you for your career?
“I hope to enter the profession feeling well-rounded and confident across different practice settings. ATSU-ASHS prepares me for this through its extensive fieldwork opportunities and strong support in securing placements that align with students’ interests. I also appreciate the program’s focus on professional and soft skills, which has been essential in shaping me into a competent and effective future provider.”
You are president of the Coalition of Occupational Therapy Advocates for Diversity, hand therapy special interest section lead with the Student Occupational Therapy Association, treasurer of the OT/PT Pro Bono Clinic Committee, and exhibitor marketing manager for the 2026 ATSU Healthcare Expo. Why did you choose to join different student organizations?
“I joined these organizations to strengthen my leadership skills and make the most of my graduate program by actively contributing beyond the classroom. My involvement allows me to explore clinical interests within occupational therapy, collaborate with peers, and support initiatives related to diversity, advocacy, professional development, and community service. Through these roles, I enjoy staying engaged, building meaningful connections, and growing as a future occupational therapist.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I became a student ambassador because I truly enjoy my educational experience at ATSU and wanted to share that with prospective students. The professors here are extremely helpful and genuinely care about our learning and success, which has made a big difference in my graduate experience. I also value the small cohort size, as it fosters meaningful connections with classmates and creates a supportive learning environment. Serving as a student ambassador allows me to give back, highlight the quality of the education at ATSU, and help others feel confident and excited about joining the program.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“I enjoy hiking, cooking, and traveling.”
Abigail Anne Diaz, D1, a student in the A.T. Still University-Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health (ATSU-ASDOH) class of 2029, is focused on building a career centered on patient-focused care and clinical efficiency. After graduating from San Diego State University with a bachelor of science in biology, Diaz chose ATSU-ASDOH for its world-class clinical training, diverse fourth-year rotation opportunities, and welcoming community atmosphere.
Currently serving as a student ambassador, Diaz aims to share her pride in the ATSU community with prospective applicants, offering the same transparency and passion that inspired her during the application process. With aspirations to lead a private general family practice, she is utilizing her time at ATSU-ASDOH to cultivate not only technical dental skills but also the core values of empathy and compassion.
Why did you choose ATSU-ASDOH?
“I chose ATSU-ASDOH for its renowned clinical training, specifically the opportunity to gain diverse experience during fourth-year rotations. While the curriculum and training is world-class, it was the people who made the decision easy for me. During my interview, I was most impressed by the positive atmosphere at ASDOH. The students were incredibly supportive and the campus felt like the most welcoming community during the entire application process.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“The best part of ATSU is all of the activities that are offered on campus. There is always a student wellness event happening or campus-wide sports, such as pickleball, basketball, or flag football. We get to take care of ourselves and be active in different ways while also learning how to take care of others.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-ASDOH helping prepare you for your career?
“Professionally, my goal is to lead a private general family practice. ATSU-ASDOH has provided an exceptional environment to cultivate not only clinical efficiency but also the core values of compassion and empathy. I believe these qualities are the foundation of being a successful healthcare provider and a dedicated business owner, ensuring that patient care is at the heart of my future practice.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“My motivation to become an ambassador grew from the profound impact the ambassadors had during my first visit to ATSU-ASDOH. Their transparency and passion for the program contributed to my perspective of the school. I wanted to return the favor by serving as a source of inspiration for future applicants, sharing my own pride in this community and helping them envision their own journey here.”
“I chose ATSU-ASHS because I really connected with its focus on the body, mind, and spirit approach to care. I believe that every patient is more than their symptoms, and true healing means understanding their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. This holistic philosophy reminds me of how I was raised and the values my family taught me, such as showing compassion, listening deeply, and caring for people as a whole. I am very family centered, and I see that same sense of connection and support in ATSU’s community. I want to become the kind of clinician who not only treats illness but also helps patients feel seen, understood, and cared for in every way.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“What I enjoy most about being an ATSU student is how supportive everyone is. It really feels like a community where people want each other to succeed. My classmates, professors, and mentors are always willing to help, and that makes such a difference. I also love how diverse our classes are. Everyone comes from different backgrounds and experiences, so I’m constantly learning from the people around me. It makes discussions more interesting and helps me see things from new perspectives. Overall, it’s such a positive and encouraging environment, and I feel lucky to be part of it.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-ASHS helping prepare you for your career?
“Professionally, I hope to build a career where I can make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives while pursuing my passion for medicine. I am still exploring different specialties, but I have a strong interest in sports medicine, orthopedics, and anesthesiology. After tearing my ACL twice while playing soccer, I developed a deep appreciation for the recovery process and the impact that skilled, compassionate care can have on a patient’s life. That experience sparked my interest in sports medicine and orthopedics, where I could help others regain strength and return to the activities they love. It would be a dream to one day work with or be contracted under a major sports team, helping athletes stay healthy and perform at their best.
“ATSU-ASHS is helping me prepare for this future by emphasizing a holistic approach to care that focuses on treating the whole person in body, mind, and spirit. The curriculum and clinical experiences strengthen both medical knowledge and communication skills, which are essential in every area of medicine. The supportive environment and opportunities for leadership and community involvement at ATSU are also helping me grow into the kind of compassionate and well-rounded clinician I aspire to become.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I joined the student ambassador program because I truly enjoy helping and connecting with others. Throughout my undergraduate years, I served as a teaching assistant for anatomy and physiology, and that experience showed me how much I value guiding and supporting students. Being able to help people understand complex topics and feel more confident in their learning was incredibly rewarding. As a student ambassador, I get to continue that same kind of mentorship by sharing my experiences, answering questions, and helping prospective students feel welcomed and supported. I enjoy being part of a community that values kindness, leadership, and growth, and I take pride in representing my program and helping others find their place in it.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“Outside of ATSU, I really enjoy staying active and being outdoors. Fitness is an important part of my life, and I recently ran the Rock and Roll 10K, which was such a rewarding experience. I love hiking and traveling because they let me disconnect, explore new places, and appreciate nature.
“I also have a creative side that comes from my dad’s family, which has a long lineage of artists. Drawing and painting have always been ways for me to express myself and relax. Music is another big part of my life, and lately I have been listening to Ax and the Hatchetmen’s newest album. I also love cooking because it allows me to be creative while sharing something I enjoy with others. These hobbies help me stay balanced, grounded, and connected to the things that make me happy.”
Fontenot is committed to advancing her clinical skills and serving the community through initiatives like Give Kids A Smile. As a student ambassador, she helps prospective students navigate the transition to dental school, sharing her passion for whole person healthcare and the beautiful Arizona landscape.
Why did you choose ATSU-ASDOH?
“I chose ATSU-ASDOH because of the people and the environment. The faculty, students, and staff were approachable, welcoming and eager to share their experiences, which made the day less intimidating. I was very pleased to find that the students genuinely enjoyed their lives here and the program itself. At ASDOH, our program offers a unique and valuable clinical experience that is essential for our post-graduate careers.
“I also really enjoyed seeing the state of Arizona itself. Being from Louisiana, this was definitely a big change but something I have appreciated. There are many outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and even enjoying the views that the area has to offer. It is nice to be surrounded by such a beautiful environment that has a lot to offer during these next couple of years.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“I enjoy all the events that ATSU has to offer outside of the classroom. At ASDOH, we often have lunch-and-learns where we are invited to participate in meetings with outside vendors or professionals. I also have enjoyed playing intramural here, along with several other side events that provide opportunities to engage with other students.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-ASDOH helping prepare you for your career?
“Professionally, I hope to be a dentist who patients feel like they can trust and be comfortable coming to. Dental work can be a very daunting thing to most patients and it is my goal to make them feel confident and supported in the chair. ATSU-ASDOH does a great job at preparing me for this through the amount of clinical experience offered, compassionate instructors, and opportunities for hand skill advancement.”
You are a member of the American Student Dental Association, Orthodontics Club, and part of the Costumes and Carnival Committee for Give Kids A Smile. Why did you choose to join different student organizations?
“I chose to be a part of these organizations because they were opportunities to get involved and help those around me. I love to be engaged and collaborate with others, both of which are things I get to do with being in these clubs. It also provides a great space to learn from those around and older than me about their experiences.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I chose to be a student ambassador to help incoming students who were struggling or were coming in with similar situations as mine. Being from so far away, not knowing anyone, and starting a new program can be a very daunting process. I wanted to be someone who could help with the adjustments into the next four years. I also wanted to have the opportunity to share what I enjoy about the school and hopefully help them in making their decisions.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“Outside of the classroom, I love to do anything outside! Hikes, walks, or even sitting on my patio to study. I am a big reader and that is currently my favorite pastime. I also love to exercise and workout. Lastly, I enjoy hanging out with friends in my free time. This area has lots of opportunities and things to do on the weekends.”
A native of Bridgeton, Missouri, Kleitz graduated from Truman State University in 2024 with a bachelor’s of science in health science and a minor in biology. Now, as she pursues her doctor of osteopathic medicine degree, she has become a pillar of the ATSU-KCOM campus community. From leading as the president of the Catholic Student Association to serving as the secretary for the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians student chapter, Kleitz balances her rigorous academics with a deep commitment to service and leadership.
She is also an active member of the Pediatrics Club and the Sigma Sigma Phi Honors Fraternity. With a fellowship already on the horizon for next year, Kleitz shares her insights on navigating medical school, staying involved, and what makes the ATSU-KCOM experience unique.
Why did you choose ATSU-KCOM?
“I chose ATSU-KCOM because I felt welcome here, because there are countless opportunities for academic and personal growth, and because the environment is incredibly collaborative.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“The community at ATSU is very unique. Classmates and professors alike work very diligently to foster a collaborative environment, not a competitive one. The school offers so many resources to students and takes care to ensure we can keep ourselves healthy before we go out to keep others healthy.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-KCOM helping prepare you for your career?
“I hope to become either a pediatrician or family physician in a rural area, where I am able to serve a small community and develop close personal connections with my patients. ATSU-KCOM is helping me with every aspect of that goal by emphasizing equally the academic and humanistic sides of medicine and encouraging me to be a better person than I was yesterday.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I had such a wonderful experience on my campus tour as a prospective student. The student ambassadors were a great resource to me and seemed so genuinely excited about the school. After being here, I came to understand why they felt that way and was eager for the opportunity to serve as a spokesperson for this school that has done so much to set me up for success.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“Outside of school, I enjoy playing the piano and tennis, and spending time with my adorable niece and nephew!”
