“I chose A.T. Still University’s SLP program because of its small, close-knit community that fosters meaningful connections with faculty and peers,” the class of 2025 member said. “The program’s emphasis on whole person healthcare aligns with my passion for treating clients holistically, considering not just their speech and language needs, but their overall well-being. ATSU also provides full support through mentorship, hands-on experiences, and a collaborative learning environment, ensuring I develop into a well-rounded, compassionate clinician.”
Hoerner is from Palmdale, California, and has a bachelor of arts degree in communicative disorders and sciences, with an emphasis in speech-language pathology, and an associate’s degree in deaf studies with a certificate in sign language interpreting.
ATSU’s extensive number of on-campus events provide opportunities for professional growth and attention to personal well-being, Hoerner said, and are enjoyable diversions from coursework.
“From stress-reliever events, such as therapy dog visits, wellness workshops, and social gatherings, to career-building activities like guest lectures and networking opportunities, ATSU truly supports a balanced student experience,” she said.
“Beyond academics, ATSU provides unmatched support in both my personal and academic life. Whether it’s through faculty mentorship, student resources, or wellness programs, I have a resource for every need – ensuring I feel confident, prepared, and supported throughout my journey. The combination of a strong academic foundation, cutting-edge technology, and a compassionate, student-centered environment makes ATSU an incredible place to grow and thrive.”
That cutting-edge technology is giving students like Hoerner an advantage over others as she approaches graduation and her next steps as a professional.
“A unique highlight of the program is the opportunity to use advanced instrumentation that is only offered at five universities across the U.S.,” she said. “This hands-on experience allows me to develop specialized clinical skills that will set me apart in my future career as an SLP.
“Professionally, I hope to become a well-rounded and compassionate speech-language pathologist who provides individualized, evidence-based care, while advocating for inclusivity in communication. I am particularly passionate about working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, incorporating sign language and AAC, and promoting whole person healthcare,” Hoerner said. “ATSU is helping me achieve these goals by providing a collaborative and supportive learning environment, hands-on clinical experiences, and opportunities to work alongside students from other healthcare fields. The program’s emphasis on whole person healthcare aligns with my belief that communication is deeply connected to overall well-being. Additionally, ATSU’s focus on service and community engagement has allowed me to grow as a leader, advocate, and clinician, preparing me to make a meaningful impact in the field.”
Hoerner serves as vice president of the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association, an organization that provides a sense of community, opportunities of professional growth, and to give back through volunteer events. The organization also has an extensive mentorship program, connecting with students at different stages of their academic journeys.
Hoerner helps provide some of that mentorship before students even get started in a program, volunteering as a student ambassador at ATSU.
“I love being a student ambassador because it allows me to represent my program, connect with prospective and current students, and foster a welcoming, supportive environment,” she said. “I enjoy sharing my experiences, offering guidance, and helping others navigate their academic and professional journeys. One of the most rewarding aspects is the opportunity to meet and collaborate with students from other healthcare fields at ATSU, such as occupational therapy, physical therapy, and dentistry. This interdisciplinary experience enhances my understanding of whole person healthcare and prepares me to work as part of a collaborative healthcare team.”
“I enjoy being an ATSU student because of the strong sense of community, the supportive learning environment, and the university’s commitment to whole person healthcare,” she said. “The faculty genuinely care about student success, and there are ample opportunities for hands-on learning, collaboration, and professional growth. In the Audiology program, with the student organizations, networking events, and community outreach programs, there are numerous ways to get involved as a student in the profession.”
Dahdal is from Yonkers, New York, and has a bachelor of science degree in speech and hearing science, with a minor in family and human development, from Arizona State University. She was attracted to ATSU-ASHS Doctor of Audiology program for several reasons.
“I chose ATSU because of its strong commitment to whole person healthcare and its emphasis on inter-professional collaboration. The University’s focus on serving underserved communities and providing hands-on, patient-centered education aligns perfectly with my values and career goals in healthcare,” she said.
Dahdal is a member of the Student Academy of Audiology and also serves as a student ambassador.
“I became a student ambassador because I wanted to help prospective students navigate their professional journey, just as others once helped me. I enjoy connecting with future students, sharing my experiences, and highlighting the unique aspects of ATSU has been incredibly rewarding,” she said.
Professionally, Dahdal aspires to become a skilled and compassionate audiologist, dedicated to improving patients’ quality of life through better hearing and communication.
“I am particularly passionate about serving diverse populations, ensuring that everyone has access to quality hearing healthcare,” she said. “ATSU is preparing me for this career by providing a comprehensive, evidence-based audiology education with a strong emphasis on clinical experience.”
“I chose ATSU-KCOM because my brother (Jacob Tinker, OMS III) was a student here, and he impressed upon me how well the curriculum and faculty here at KCOM prepare their students to become physicians,” Benjamin Tinker said. “I want to be the best doctor I can be, so it was important for me to pick a school that would bring the most out of me, like KCOM.”
Benjamin Tinker poses with his brother, Jacob, a fellow KCOM student.
Tinker is from Johnston, Iowa, and has a bachelor’s of science and engineering in industrial and systems engineering from University of Iowa.
He’s a highly involved student, serving as chair of Student Government and member of the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons-Medical Student Section (ACOS), American Osteopathic Academy of Sports Medicine (AOASM), Student American Osteopathic Academy of Orthopedics (SAOAO), Sigma Sigma Phi, Gamma Beta Phi, and more.
“I joined the Student Government Association because I wanted to be involved on campus and all the events that happen here at ATSU. I also wanted to be able to advocate for my classmates and serve to improve their experience here at ATSU. My position as chair allowed me to grow my communication and leadership skills and I’m very grateful for that experience,” Tinker said. “I am a member of the ACOS, AOASM, and SAOAO because of my interest in becoming an orthopedic surgeon. These clubs allowed me to follow that interest and learn more about that field as well as develop relevant skills.”
In addition, Tinker serves as a student ambassador, saying he’s grateful for all ATSU has done for him and eager to share his story with prospective students beginning their own journeys.
“I enjoy the positive atmosphere and strong class bond that has developed among my classmates,” Tinker said. “Student Life provides us with many events and opportunities to mingle outside of class, which is where that bond really developed. I also enjoy being challenged by the curriculum, knowing that I am becoming a better version of myself every week.”
In his free time, Tinker enjoys working out and going on walks, as well as cooking, watching sports, listening to country music, and spending time with his girlfriend, Justine Farrell, also an ATSU-KCOM student.
Benjamin Tinker and his girlfriend, fellow KCOM student Justine Farrell.
In the classroom, Tinker is working toward becoming an orthopedic surgeon who helps people resume their normal lives.
“I hope to become an orthopedic surgeon who helps people get back to doing the daily activities that they enjoy, which will improve their overall health, as well as getting athletes back to playing condition,” he said. “ATSU is preparing me for that career by preparing me for my board exams and developing clinical skills, which will allow me to excel on clinical rotations.”
The first two photos are of me and my girlfriend Justine Farrell who is also an Osteopathic Medical Student at KCOM. Then their is a photo with my brother Jacob Tinker at my white coat ceremony, and a picture with my parents Dennis and Susan Tinker at my white coat ceremony.
“I chose ATSU-MOSDOH as my dental school because of its strong commitment to serving underserved populations,” Chaudhary said. “This mission aligns perfectly with my values and career goals. At MOSDOH, we have the unique opportunity to engage with a diverse patient population, which enriches our learning experience.”
Through ATSU-MOSDOH’s ASID program, international students serve the underserved in the local community by providing care at the St. Louis Dental Center, a dental clinic operated as a partnership between ATSU-MOSDOH and Affinia Healthcare. Students complete a special semester-long didactic and clinical simulation course before completing coursework which is similar to the traditional Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) program’s curriculum.
For acceptance into the program, students must possess a BDS, DDS, DMD, or equivalent degree from a foreign dental school, as well as a license to practice in their home country. Students must also meet the same standards as required for entry into the traditional DMD program.
“I was drawn to MOSDOH’s ASID program because of its strong focus on community-based dental education and its mission to serve underserved populations. The program provided a unique opportunity to strengthen my foundational knowledge, refine my clinical skills, and adapt to MOSDOH’s curriculum and learning environment before entering the DMD program,” she said.
“It helped me develop strong study habits, time management skills, and confidence in my abilities. Additionally, the relationships I built with faculty and classmates have been invaluable in my journey through dental school.”
Chaudhary, originally from Islamabad, Pakistan, serves as a student ambassador, providing tips to future dental students, including those with a shared background in international dental education who are seeking help navigating the necessary steps to practice in the U.S.
“I joined the student ambassador team at ATSU because it allows me to engage with prospective students and share in their excitement and dreams. Their enthusiasm reminds me of why I chose ATSU and reignites my passion for what I do,” she said. “Additionally, I love guiding students through their journey, just as I sought guidance when I was searching for schools. This role keeps me grounded and motivated, and I truly enjoy every moment of it. Being a student ambassador is a fulfilling experience that allows me to give back and support others in their educational pursuits.”
She has a lot of positive experiences to share with those prospective students. Chaudhary speaks glowingly about the faculty and community at ATSU-MOSDOH.
“Our faculty members are not only highly experienced but also actively practice in the clinics, ensuring that their knowledge remains current and relevant,” she said. “This hands-on approach provides us with excellent clinical experience and prepares us well for our future careers. Additionally, the supportive and collaborative environment at ATSU fosters both personal and professional growth, making it an ideal place to pursue my dental education.
“The environment of learning together and the sense of community at ATSU is incredibly rewarding. For example, I enjoy being part of the Oral Surgery Club at ATSU. There is so much to learn from the experienced doctors, and the suturing techniques I’ve picked up have been extremely helpful with my patients.”
She is also a member of Delta Sigma Delta, which hosts several social events allowing members to network with ATSU-MOSDOH alumni and other dentists.
“These experiences enrich my time at ATSU and contribute significantly to my professional and personal growth,” she said.
Chaudhary seeks to become a dentist whose empathy and continuous learning are at the forefront.
“I believe that every patient who sits in a dental chair brings a unique story and perspective, and I want to be a compassionate listener and caregiver. There is no limit to learning, and I cherish the opportunity to gain new experiences every day,” she said.
“ATSU-MOSDOH is helping me prepare for this career by providing a diverse and inclusive environment where I can engage with patients from various backgrounds. The hands-on clinical experience and the guidance from experienced faculty members are invaluable in shaping my skills and knowledge. Additionally, ATSU’s commitment to serving underserved populations aligns with my goal of being a well-rounded and empathetic doctor, both in practice and as a person.”
“I chose ATSU-SOMA because I wanted a program that truly felt like a community rather than a competition,” she said. “On my tour, the student ambassador expressed to us how tight knit each cohort is and how she never felt like she was competing with her classmates. Everyone is willing to help each other because they truly care about seeing not only themselves, but their classmates succeed. This has rang true throughout my first year here, I know I could step into any study room on campus with a question and my classmates would make sure I understand the concept before leaving.”
Elftmann is from Wheaton, Illinois, and has a bachelor’s of science in health sciences with minors in chemistry and neuroscience from Butler University. She’s thoroughly enjoying all of the experiences offered on ATSU’s Mesa, Arizona, campus.
“I love that there is always so much going on at the school. There are so many different organizations not only within SOMA but within ATSU as a whole that are constantly putting on fun events,” she said. “One of my favorite things I have done as a student was participate in our Founder’s Day flag football game. Each of the different programs created an all-girls flag football team with coaches and practiced for weeks before Founder’s Day, when we played a bracket-style tournament against the other programs.”
There are also plenty of academic organizations to be involved in, and Elftmann serves as a member of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Interest Group, Ultrasound Interest Group, Pediatrics Interest Group, and ATSU-SOMA Taylored Excellence.
“One of my favorite organizations I am a part of on campus is the Ultrasound Interest Group. This group hosts activities where we learn about the clinical importance and use of point-of-care ultrasound from professionals, and then get the opportunity to practice those skills,” she said. “Getting an extra opportunity to practice ultrasound outside of our medical skills course has been an amazing experience and has allowed me to continually feel more and more comfortable using the ultrasound machinery. I know the activities this group puts on are not only fun but are helping me prepare to perform well during clinical rotations.”
Elftmann also serves as an ATSU-SOMA student ambassador, a position she sought because she wanted to give interviewees the same great experience she had on her interview day.
“I think there is something so special about getting to tell other potential students what being a part of the ATSU-SOMA community truly means. I feel lucky to be a part of such a wonderful program and really wanted the opportunity to share the things that make SOMA so great,” she said.
Outside of ATSU, Elftmann enjoys running and has logged two half-marathons in the past two years, and is running the Mesa Marathon 10K this month. She also loves reading and sharing meals with friends.
On campus, she’s working toward becoming a well-rounded physician who not only cares about a patient’s symptoms, but truly cares about them as a whole person.
“ATSU is helping me prepare for this by incorporating things into the curriculum that help us to see our patients as not just a set of symptoms but as complex beings that have many different factors affecting their health,” she said. “I also hope to be able to effectively and compassionately communicate with my patients and our medical skills course does a great job of allowing us the space to practice those communication skills that are vital for being a compassionate physician.”
Since 1892, A.T. Still University (ATSU) has been fully committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all students, faculty, staff, patients, and visitors. We will continue to do so while staying true to our mission.
Recently, many of our internal stakeholders have reached out to the Chancellor’s Office regarding ATSU’s response to newly proposed laws affecting higher education and healthcare. Most of these proposed changes are under review by America’s courts. Once final decisions are made and clarified ATSU will provide additional information on its website. As always, the University will continue to comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws.
Please feel free to continue reaching out with any questions you may have at chancellor@atsu.edu.
“I chose ATSU-MOSDOH because of its strong commitment to community service and mission to develop compassionate healthcare professionals,” Momin said. “ATSU encourages students to apply knowledge beyond the classroom by participating in service events such as oral health education programs, free dental screenings, and dental mission trips. These experiences not only strengthen our clinical skills but also promote a deep sense of social responsibility.”
Momin is from Peachtree City, Georgia, and has a bachelor’s of science in public health with a minor in biology from the University of Georgia.
She’s a member of the American Student Dental Association, Delta Sigma Delta, and serves as a student ambassador.
“I became a student ambassador to connect students with opportunities that can support their success at ATSU. I enjoy sharing my experiences and knowledge to help others navigate their journey in dental school,” she said.
In her free time, Momin enjoys cooking and baking, working out, taking care of her plants, and hanging out with friends.
On campus, Momin says she enjoys the welcoming environment and close community ATSU-MOSDOH offers.
“My classmates feel like family and the collaborative atmosphere promotes both personal and professional growth. The faculty genuinely care about our success, constantly offering guidance that makes a real difference in our education,” she said. “Beyond academics, I enjoy participating in student organization events and wellness activities with my friends, such as spin classes at the Thompson Campus Center.”
Ultimately, Momin sees herself as a dentist who will bring whole person healthcare to patients in her community.
“Professionally, I aspire to become the best dentist I can be, providing top-of-the-line care that prioritizes both the oral and overall health of my patients,” she said. “ATSU is preparing me for this by providing a comprehensive education that emphasizes compassionate, patient-centered care with advanced clinical training.”
A.T. Still University-Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health’s (ATSU-MOSDOH) Adepitan Owosho, DDS, FFAOMP, FAAOM, DABOMP, a professor of oral and maxillofacial pathology and oral Medicine, and the Specialty Care Unit director for oral medicine, dental oncology, and urgent care, has been awarded a $350,000 one-year grant from Viome.
As the principal investigator for two clinical sites, Dr. Owosho will help validate a device submission by Viome to the FDA for detecting oral and oropharyngeal cancer in individuals suspected of having oral cancer. The study is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT06174428) and is currently recruiting participants.
Additional personnel working with Dr. Owosho at the St. Louis Dental Center clinical site include Richard Vargo, DMD, MBA, DABOMP, FAAOM, FICD, associate professor, and Abimbola Oladayo, PhD, DDS, MPH, assistant professor.
“My favorite part of being an ATSU student is the campus! I take long walks around the campus every day for study breaks,” she said. “It is truly so beautiful!”
Miller is from West Linn, Oregon, and has a bachelor’s of science degree in multidisciplinary sciences with minors in chemistry and economics from University of Oregon.
“I hope to be a competent PA (either family medicine or emergency medicine) who is a leader in the clinic and in the community,” she said. “Most importantly, I want to advocate for my patients and guide them through the confusing landscape of healthcare to improve their health and lives. ATSU-ASHS is not only teaching me the medical knowledge to achieve this, but the soft skills and cultural nuances required to be a well-rounded provider for my future patients.”
Miller said she chose ATSU during her interview, when she said faculty and staff welcomed her kindly and were extremely passionate about their work and the program.
“I also choose ATSU because of its long history of producing competent providers that go into communities and make a difference, because that is what I want to do,” she said.
In her free time, Miller enjoys playing golf, working out, baking, and cooking. On campus, she enjoys working alongside other graduate health sciences students in other disciplines, and serves as secretary of the Kettel Society (PA program student government) and student ambassador.
“I have always been drawn to leadership and mentoring others, mostly because people in those types of positions have helped me immensely get to where I am today. And because of that I want to give back in a similar way, which has drawn me to Kettel and being an ambassador,” Miller said. “So far in Kettel I have loved planning different events for my class to alleviate some stress. As an ambassador it has been rewarding talking to applicants on different interview days to give them a perspective of what PA school is really like so they can better decide what is best for them.”
“I had a really great mentor, Dharmpal Vansadia, ’DO, ’10, who graduated from ATSU’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, and he put ATSU on the radar for me,” Le said. “After interviewing with ATSU-SOMA, I could tell how the institution really embodies their mission and emphasizes well-rounded, osteopathic care. The faculty and student ambassadors were so caring and genuine, and I knew that ATSU was the school that could best equip me to become the compassionate physician I aspire to be.”
Le is from Houston, Texas, and has a bachelor’s of science in biochemistry with a minor in anthropology from Baylor University. She serves as the Social Activities Coordinator for the Student Government Association class of 2028, the secretary for Anatomy Club, and a Mental Health Ambassador for the Department of Behavioral Health and Wellness.
“I love being a part of ATSU-SOMA’s Student Government Association because I get the opportunity to connect with all my classmates beyond just academics and work toward making our medical school experiences better,” Le said. “It has been so fun to host events like a movie night with blanket making for hospital patients through Project Linus. I loved seeing how we all came together to serve our community while also getting to enjoy each other’s company outside of class.”
Le also serves as an ATSU-SOMA student ambassador.
“I had a great experience with my student ambassador, Mariah Taylor, OMS II, during my own interview. She was very genuine and honest about her experience at SOMA, which felt refreshing compared to other schools I had interviewed at. She made me realize how important it was to choose a school that genuinely aligned with my mission and goals in medicine,” Le said.
“This reminded me that even as an applicant, I still had autonomy in my decision. It shifted my mindset to be confident in myself during the application cycle, since it felt very discouraging at times. Now as I serve as a student ambassador, I strive to remind every interviewee of what Mariah reminded me of a year ago – that getting an interview is a feat in and of itself and to not let the uncertainty of applications waver you. I love getting to meet my potential future classmates and hearing their stories.”
Outside of classes, Le enjoys weightlifting, pilates, yoga, running, pottery painting, travel, and exploring new restaurants.
On campus, she enjoys the relationships she’s establishing with her classmates.
“I love how welcoming and supportive my classmates are. I’ve been able to develop some of the closest friendships because SOMA brought together a group of people with similar mindsets and missions. Surrounding myself with these really great influences has allowed me to grow as a person and as a future physician,” Le said. “We support each other through our study sessions and dinners to celebrate our hard work. We know how consuming it can be to study as much as we do, so we make big efforts to be active and prioritize our overall wellness. I played on the SOMA flag football team and our entire cohort came to support us and cheer us on – that is how supportive SOMA is.”
Le is keeping an open mind as far as her future specialty, noting ATSU-SOMA has provided many opportunities to network with various physicians in several different specialties so far.
“Events like Dinner with Doctors with AOMA and Phoenix Children’s Hospital has opened my eyes to a number of specialties that I was not aware of as a first-year medical student,” Le said.
No matter what she chooses, she knows ATSU-SOMA faculty will be there to support her journey.
“I love the faculty open door policy because it has allowed me to make the most meaningful connections with my professors. I feel very supported and know that my professors are always willing to help if I need it, whether it is academic or personal,” she said. “This semester I had gotten sick and was having trouble finding a physician that was available to treat me. After speaking with a professor I was close with, he reassured me about my diagnosis and was able to get me the help I needed to be treated. Knowing that my professors care about me beyond just academics is what makes me feel at home here at SOMA.”
