ATSU-KCOM puts students’ well-being first, creating supportive, productive environment
Posted: March 27, 2026
Meet Elizabeth Kleitz, OMS I, a dedicated member of the A.T. Still University-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM) class of 2029.
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!”