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.”
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.”
For Hannah Farrow, PA, ’27, becoming a physician assistant isn’t just a career goal, it’s a calling rooted in compassion, athletics, and a deep belief in whole person healthcare. The Fountain Valley, California native and University of Arizona graduate is currently enrolled in the Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program at A.T. Still University’s Arizona School of Health Sciences (ATSU-ASHS).
In this Q&A, Farrow shares what brought her to ATSU-ASHS, how the program is shaping her clinical skills, and why community has been at the heart of her experience.
Why did you choose the Physician Assistant program at ATSU-ASHS?
“I chose ATSU-ASHS because of its strong commitment to educating compassionate, patient-centered clinicians, and its emphasis on whole person healthcare. The program’s focus on communication, professionalism, and evidence-based medicine stood out to me during the application process. I was also drawn to the supportive learning environment and faculty dedication to student success. Being part of ATSU has reinforced my passion for becoming a PA who can make a meaningful impact in patients’ lives.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“One of the things I enjoy most about being an ATSU student is the strong sense of community within the program. My classmates are supportive and collaborative, which makes navigating the challenges of PA school more rewarding. Student life includes opportunities to participate in organizations, leadership roles, and events that bring students together outside of the classroom. These experiences help foster teamwork and friendships while preparing us for our future careers as physician assistants.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU helping prepare you for your career?
“Professionally, I hope to become a compassionate and knowledgeable physician assistant who provides patient-centered, evidence-based care. I am especially passionate about patient education and lifestyle medicine, and I hope to pursue a specialty in sports medicine where I can work with athletes and active individuals. My background in competitive athletics has inspired my interest in helping patients recover from injuries, optimize performance, and maintain long-term health. ATSU’s rigorous curriculum and emphasis on whole-person care are helping me build strong clinical reasoning, communication, and teamwork skills, preparing me to confidently care for patients and make a meaningful impact in their health.”
Why did you choose to join different student organizations, such as Still-Well Ambassadors?
“I joined student organizations as a way to stay connected with my classmates and contribute to the supportive community within our program. PA school can be incredibly demanding, so having opportunities to collaborate, encourage one another, and spend time together outside of the classroom is really meaningful. I appreciate how these organizations help foster connection, support student mental health and wellness, and remind us that we are all navigating this journey together. Being involved has strengthened my sense of community and helped me develop teamwork and leadership skills that I will carry with me throughout my career as a PA.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I became a student ambassador because I wanted to support prospective students and share my experience in the ATSU-ASHS PA program. Applying to PA school can feel overwhelming, and I enjoy helping applicants learn more about the program and feel confident in their decision. Serving in this role has allowed me to represent a program that has had a meaningful impact on my development as a future PA. It is rewarding to connect with prospective students and highlight the supportive community and opportunities that ATSU offers.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“Outside of ATSU, I enjoy staying active and spending time with friends as a way to stay balanced during the demands of PA school. I love trying new coffee shops, cooking at home, and getting outside for activities like pickleball or workouts. These moments help me recharge and stay connected with the people around me. Finding time for these hobbies has been important for maintaining wellness and perspective while in a rigorous program.”
ATSU faculty, staff, and students,
Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in Galveston, Texas, more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863.
To learn more about Juneteenth, please visit the ATSU Diversity Calendar.*
In observance of this significant milestone in our nation’s history, ATSU offices and patient care centers in Kirksville, Missouri; Mesa, Arizona; Santa Maria, California; and St. Louis, Missouri, will be closed on Friday, June 19, 2026. Facility access will be limited. The Kirksville Thompson Campus Center will also be closed.
To view library hours at each location, please click here.
*Click on the blue calendar tile and select Juneteenth.
Yours in service,
Craig M. Phelps, DO, ’84
Chancellor
Taylor Kurtz, OMS II, is a student in A.T. Still University’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM), class of 2028. A native of Plymouth, Wisconsin, she earned her bachelor of science in biochemistry from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee before coming to ATSU.
Kurtz was drawn to the University by its storied history as the first osteopathic medical school and the firsthand recommendation of a physician mentor who trained there. A dedicated leader and advocate, she serves as president of both the L. Linton Budd OBGYN Society and Medical Students for Choice, as national liaison for the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons Medical Student Section (ACOS-MSS), and as a student ambassador.
Why did you choose the DO program at ATSU-KCOM?
“I chose ATSU-KCOM because of the school’s strong reputation and its history as the first osteopathic medical school. A physician I worked with who trained here spoke very highly of both the education and the sense of community at ATSU. Hearing about his positive experience made it clear to me that ATSU would be a supportive place to learn and grow as a future physician, which made my decision to attend an easy one.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“I enjoy the strong sense of community that comes with being an ATSU student. The friends I have made here have had such a positive impact on my overall happiness and have made medical school a much more supportive and enjoyable experience. Outside of studying, I love attending spin classes at the Thompson Campus Center as well as kayaking. I also enjoyed participating in intramural softball this past fall. While I hadn’t played since I was 8, it was a fun way to meet new people and have fun.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-KCOM helping prepare you for your career?
“My primary professional goal is to become a compassionate and skilled physician who takes the time to truly listen to patients and make them feel heard. I believe that strong patient–physician relationships are essential to providing good care, and I hope to create an environment where patients feel comfortable, respected, and involved in their healthcare decisions.
“ATSU-KCOM is helping prepare me for this career by providing a strong foundation in both medical knowledge and the osteopathic philosophy of patient-centered care. The supportive learning environment, hands-on opportunities, and emphasis on treating the whole patient are helping me develop the skills I need to become not only a competent physician, but also one who prioritizes empathy and communication in every patient interaction.”
Why did you choose to get involved in student organizations?
“I joined these organizations because they align closely with both my professional interests and my desire to be involved in the medical student community. As president of the L. Linton Budd OBGYN Society and Medical Students for Choice, I enjoy creating opportunities for students to connect, learn, and explore topics related to reproductive health and obstetrics and gynecology. Through the OBGYN club, we host activities such as HPS deliveries, IUD workshops, and documentary nights. These events allow members to practice hands-on skills while also learning about important topics in reproductive health and patient care in a collaborative environment.
“Serving as the National Liaison for ACOS-MSS has also allowed me to represent ATSU at a national level. I had the opportunity to travel to Salt Lake City for the ACOS conference, where I connected with other medical students interested in surgery and participated in surgical skills workshops. Being involved in these organizations has been incredibly rewarding because it allows me to meet new people, develop leadership skills, and further explore the areas of medicine I am most passionate about.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I became a student ambassador because I wanted to help prospective students get an honest perspective on what it is like to attend ATSU-KCOM. Choosing a medical school is a big decision, and I remember how helpful it was to hear directly from current students during my own application process. Serving as an ambassador allows me to share my experiences, answer questions, and help applicants feel more comfortable as they learn about the school.”
What are some of your interests and hobbies outside of ATSU?
“I love cooking and am working on creating a vegetarian and plant-based cookbook. My husband and I adopted a dog my first semester here, and we spend time going to the local dog parks and taking her on walks around the lake.”
