ATSU-SOMA student hopes to bridge gap between medicine and underserved communities
Posted: December 18, 2025
Meet A.T. Still University-School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona (ATSU-SOMA) student Alondra Wang-Enisco, OMS I. Wang-Enisco is from Rancho Cucamonga, California, and has a bachelor’s of science in biology, where she had a research focus on the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer biology.
Why did you choose ATSU-SOMA?
“I grew up in an underserved community, so I want to learn medicine in a way that really fits the needs of people like those I grew up around. ATSU-SOMA’s focus on community-based learning and service makes it the right place for me to do that.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-SOMA helping prepare you for your career?
“I hope to build a career where I bridge the gap between medicine and the people who’ve historically been left out of it. ATSU-SOMA is helping me get there by letting me learn medicine hands-on in the communities that shaped me, where every patient interaction teaches me how to listen first and treat second.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU-SOMA student?
“Outside of school, I’ve loved exploring the Phoenix area. There are so many aesthetic cafés, each with its own unique vibe, and beautiful hiking trails where students love to go watch the unbeatable Arizona sunsets.
“Within school, I’ve made some of the best friends I’ve ever had. Even outside of class, it feels like everyone’s rooting for each other. We study together, de-stress together, and grow together.”
Why did you choose to join different student organizations?
“I joined the Latino Student Medical Association because it gives me opportunities to advocate for better care in Latino communities through outreach, mentorship, and cultural awareness. It’s also a way to build support, give back, and stay rooted in where I came from while growing into the kind of physician I want to be.
“I joined the Emergency Medicine Club because I’ve always been drawn to the fast-paced, hands-on nature of emergency care. I want to learn more about the field, explore different opportunities within it, and start preparing early for residency applications.”
“I joined the Medical Spanish Club because I know what it’s like for patients to feel discouraged by a language barrier. This club gives me a chance to step up for my community by helping teach medical Spanish to my peers and promoting cultural awareness in healthcare.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I remember how scary and overwhelming it was to apply to medical school, and how grounding it felt to see a friendly face during those visits. I want to be that person for students exploring our program. Medical school is demanding, but it’s also a place to grow, make lifelong friends, and find a sense of home. As I continue to experience what this school has to offer, I hope to share that with others beginning their own journey.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“I was a research intern with the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine, where I studied how microRNA regulation affects transcription factors following irradiation and its impact on cancer aggressiveness. I presented my findings at the CIRM Bridges Symposium and the Health Disparities Research Symposium at Loma Linda University School of Medicine.
“Outside of research, I love to read and enjoy an ice cold drink, whether it’s by the pool under the Arizona sun or while exploring new coffee shops.”