“I chose ATSU-ASDOH because of its strong commitment to whole person healthcare and dedication to serving underserved communities,” she said. “ATSU’s curriculum ensures students are well educated in all aspects of the body and puts a strong emphasis on how all of the body’s systems are connected.”
Snow has a degree in exercise science and pre-health professions from Creighton University and an associate’s degree from Rio Salado College. She is from Orange County, California, but moved to Arizona with her family in 2012.
“I love Arizona and am so lucky to call this place home. I am also extremely grateful to be able to pursue my career in dentistry in Arizona. I plan to stay here after graduation,” she said.
Her positive experience with ATSU-ASDOH began with her interview, where she had positive interactions with faculty and current students. Snow said the Mesa, Arizona, campus immediately felt like home.
That experience inspired her to become a student ambassador.
“As an applicant, I had such a pleasant experience interacting with ASDOH student ambassadors,” Snow said. “They were happy to give advice, provided encouragement, and gave me insight into what being a student would look like. I wanted to provide the same mentorship to future ASDOH students and hopefully be a familiar face in their future.”
Snow has immersed herself in the student experience. In addition to being a student ambassador, she is part of Give Kids A Smile and a member of the American Student Dental Association, ATSU-ASDOH’s Association for Women Dentists, ATSU-ASDOH Academy of General Dentistry Club, American Association of Public Health Dentistry, Students United for America’s Toothfairy, and ATSU-ASDOH Cosmetics Club.
“I joined these organizations because I am able to resonate with each of them in a different way. By being part of these organizations I am able to connect with my peers, have unique learning experiences, and learn more about the various aspects of dentistry,” she said.
In her free time, Snow loves to cook, go on walks, and try new restaurants. She is also a barre/yoga instructor and is hoping to get back into teaching soon.
“It is also super important to me to spend quality time with my family and friends,” she said.
Ultimately, Snow aims to become a compassionate and competent provider, and is confident ATSU-ASDOH is providing her the skills to achieve her goals.
“I am confident ATSU-ASDOH will prepare me to be a well-rounded dentist and provide me with a skill set that I can use in various environments,” she said. “One of my goals as a future practitioner includes working in public health in Arizona. I want to give back to the community that I call home. Eventually, I see myself practicing as a general dentist locally.”
Dr. Megafu discussed personal experiences and those shared by historically underrepresented groups in healthcare and healthcare education, and steps that must be taken to address inequities and disparities for students, physicians, and the communities they serve.
Dr. Megafu joined The University of Connecticut Health Center in Farmington, Connecticut, as a PGY1 orthopaedic surgery resident in July 2024.
Born in Brooklyn and growing up in Queens, New York, Dr. Megafu’s early healthcare influences included his mother, who was a nurse, and his father, a public health investigator for the New York State Department of Health. Though he believed early on teaching would become his career path, and it was for a short time as a teacher of physics and gospel choir at his former high school, his heart pulled him back to pursuing a career in osteopathic medicine.
He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biology and minor in chemistry from St. Joseph’s University New York in May 2016, a master of public health degree in epidemiology and biostatistics from SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, School of Public Health in May 2019, and a doctor of osteopathic medicine degree from ATSU-KCOM in May 2024.
While a student at ATSU-KCOM, Dr. Megafu distinguished himself as a leader by accepting roles with the Christian Medical and Dental Association and Student National Medical Association, serving as an ATSU-KCOM student ambassador and completing a one-year medical education fellowship. He was also active with several student organizations, including Physical Medicine & Rehab, Internal Medicine, Surgery, and the MEDleys, an ATSU a cappella group.
Dr. Megafu’s research interests include medical education and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in orthopedics, global orthopedics, joints, and sports. His passion projects include focusing on debunking myths about osteopathic medicine, increasing match rates for all orthopaedic applicants, and improving research and mentorship opportunities for underrepresented groups in medicine.
A talented musician, Dr. Megafu also enjoys playing the piano and has served as pianist and bassist for his church. His additional hobbies include spending time with his wife, family, and friends; playing basketball and bowling; and watching movies.
“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
On Monday, January 20, 2025, our nation will celebrate the life, sacrifice, and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Since 1892, A.T. Still University has been committed to fostering inclusivity for all students, faculty, staff, and patients. From Dr. Still’s first class of D.O. students through today, ATSU strives to be a place where everyone understands the values of cultural proficiency, and feels valued and respected.
In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, ATSU offices and patient care centers at the Kirksville, Missouri; Mesa, Arizona; Santa Maria, California; and St. Louis, Missouri, locations will be closed. Additionally, the Thompson Campus Center on the Kirksville, Missouri, campus will not be open on this day.
Please click here to view library hours at each location.
“I hope to enter dental school in 2025, and when I graduate serve underserved populations,” she said. “ATSU has helped me become a more competitive and well-rounded applicant for dental school through completion of research, shadowing alumni, leadership opportunities, volunteering in the community, and mentorship with faculty.”
Donjoian is from St. Charles, Missouri, and has a bachelor’s degree from Missouri State University, where she majored in cell and molecular biology and minored in chemistry and biomedical science. Seeking a master’s degree to better her application to dental school, she found ATSU-KCOM’s MSBMS program.
Donjoian noted how friendly everyone was during her application process, and has enjoyed her time in the program so far. Student life on ATSU’s Kirksville, Missouri campus has also contributed to her positive experience.
“I enjoy the faculty-student relationships and how friendly all the professors are,” she said. “I also enjoy competing in intramural sports with the other programs. It’s a great way to make friends and play a sport you love!”
Outside of class, Donjoian enjoys yoga, soccer, weight lifting, caring for her houseplants, watching reality TV, and spending time with her toy poodle puppy.
She’s also taken advantage of the many club opportunities at ATSU and serves as president of the Biomedical Science Club, Rotary liaison for ATSU Rotaract, research committee chair for the Student Government Association, and KCOM research liaison for Council of Osteopathic Student Government Presidents.
“Rotaract connects students with members of Kirksville Rotary Club, with the motto ‘Service Above Self,’ to provide funding to things like Shoes for Orphan Souls and End Polio Now,” she said. “The Biomedical Science Club allows me to connect with the students in my program to plan fun events like our professor appreciation dinner!”
Sonika Dsouza holds a bachelor’s degree in dental surgery and master’s degree in health management, and would like to serve the oral healthcare needs of underserved communities in the U.S.
Dsouza is a member of ATSU-MOSDOH’s ASID program, seeking her doctor of dental medicine (DMD) degree, while also pursuing her Master of Public Health – Dental Emphasis degree. She expects to graduate in May 2025.
She received her bachelor’s degree in dental surgery (BDS) at Amrita University in India, and her master’s in health management from Deakin University in Melbourne, Australia.
ATSU-MOSDOH’s ASID program is designed for people just like Dsouza, an internationally educated dentist who desires to earn a DMD degree for practice in the U.S.
Through this 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 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.
Dsouza was drawn to ATSU-MOSDOH’s program because its mission and structure aligned with her personal goals.
“I chose A.T. Still University because of its dedication to serving the underserved, the presence of renowned staff, and emphasis on diversity,” she said. “The University’s commitment to community service and its community-oriented training approach stuck out to me as a valuable method to obtain hands-on experience while positively changing people’s lives. Furthermore, the faculty’s experience and commitment to mentorship fosters a supportive learning environment, which is critical for my development.
“Our university actively fosters a diverse learning environment, attracting students from many backgrounds and perspectives. This is critical for building a well-rounded, culturally competent approach to patient care. As I embark on my next steps in this journey, I plan to continue to strengthen my leadership and clinician qualities at ATSU. This will help me to better serve my community to the best of my abilities and offer them the quality and personal care that I believe everyone deserves in our society.”
Dsouza has been highly engaged in student activities, serving as a member of the American Dental Education Association, Delta Sigma Delta, and American Student Dental Association chapters.
“Joining these organizations has given me the opportunity to deeply engage with the dentistry community, expand my knowledge, and develop my leadership skills,” she said. “These roles allow me to facilitate the transfer of new students and promote cultural diversity. I also enjoy promoting oral healthcare education, and these roles enable me to connect with our community. Finally, getting more involved keeps me up to date on current dentistry topics, thereby allowing me to refine my skills outside of clinical practice.
“I’ve also had the opportunity to make wonderful friends from different backgrounds, each with their own distinct viewpoints that help me comprehend diverse cultures. We learn together, volunteer together, and encourage one another to achieve. This combination of community service, cultural learning, and excellent peer relationships has made my experience at ATSU extremely fulfilling, preparing me to be a compassionate and culturally competent healthcare professional.”
She also serves as a student ambassador, meeting with and answering questions from prospective ATSU-MOSDOH ASID students, with her message, “dream big, the sky is the limit.”
“I became a student ambassador for international dental students because I wanted to help others navigate the unique difficulties and opportunities that come with studying dentistry in the United States,” Dsouza said. “It is challenging to start your life from scratch and build your career after coming to a new country. Coming from an international background myself, I realize how important it is to have someone who can empathize with your situation and offer advice, whether it’s about academic modifications, cultural adaptation, or community development.”
Dsouza aims to enhance accessibility of dental care in underserved communities, bridging the gap in oral health services, and assisting individuals who lack the means or access to regular dental care.
“ATSU has been essential in preparing me for this path. The University’s emphasis on community service and mission to aid the underprivileged are strongly aligned with my professional ambitions,” she said. “ATSU provides hands-on experience through community service programs, allowing me to engage directly with diverse groups and understand the unique barriers they encounter in receiving dental treatment. Through ATSU’s whole person healthcare approach, I am convinced that this education will enable me to work effectively with underprivileged groups, promoting better lifestyles and brighter smiles.”
She appreciates opportunities afforded by ATSU to be part of a community dedicated to service and driven by compassion.
“One of the most gratifying aspects of student life is engaging in community service initiatives that enable us to apply our skills while genuinely helping those in need,” Dsouza said. “Participating in free dental clinics, health fairs, or school-based health screenings allows us to witness the impact of accessible healthcare firsthand. This also reinforces the goals of our research.”
A.T. Still University-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM) Associate Professor of Anatomy Sumitra Miriyala, PhD, MBA, MPH, FAHA, has been selected to join the the Society of Science Advocates Program, receiving funding to support her impactful work in guiding students through research and competition processes.
As an Advocate, Dr. Miriyala will receive a $3,000 stipend to expand opportunities for her students to engage in high-quality research experiences. Her work aligns with the program’s mission to increase the number of students pursuing research, with a goal of mentoring at least three to five additional students throughout the upcoming cycle.
This program recognizes Dr. Miriyala’s commitment to empowering students and fostering a love for STEM (Science-Technology-Engineering-Mathematics). With her dedication and the support of the Society of Science, she will be at the forefront of shaping the next generation of researchers and innovators.
“I chose ATSU because of the warm, welcoming environment I felt when visiting the campus,” Le said. “The faculty consistently go above and beyond to support and create a safe space for students to thrive and grow. ATSU’s commitment to whole person healthcare reassures me that I will excel in my journey in becoming a competent and compassionate physician assistant.”
Le is from Los Angeles and has a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences from University of California, Santa Barbara.
“At ATSU, I appreciate the strong sense of community. Everyone is incredibly friendly and always willing to lend a hand. The numerous events that bring together the different programs foster a feeling of unity, making it feel like one big family – a sense that’s evident among both students and faculty,” she said.
When not studying, Le enjoys reading, playing pickleball, and spending time with friends and family. She also serves as an ATSU student ambassador.
“I became an ambassador to share my passion for the PA program and highlight all it has to offer prospective students,” she said. “Speaking with ambassadors during my own application process, I saw firsthand how genuinely happy and passionate they were about being in the program. I hope to convey that same excitement to future students considering ATSU.”
Ultimately, Le aspires to become a culturally competent PA who makes patients feel safe, heard, and comfortable in her care.
“ATSU is helping me achieve this by emphasizing the importance of understanding how diverse backgrounds and upbringings influence each individual’s relationship with healthcare,” she said.
“When I was thinking of joining ATSU, a student ambassador told me all about the OT program and I fell in love,” she said. “Hearing from a current student helped me open my eyes into what ATSU was like and I want to do that for other potential students.”
Hunter is from Orange, California, and has degrees in human physiology and psychology from the University of Oregon. In ATSU, she found a University with a strong commitment to holistic and patient-centered care.
“I was also drawn to the faculty’s dedication to the students and the support we get throughout the entire school,” she said. “I enjoy how close the cohorts get. I have been able to make my own family with classmates and it makes school manageable. I also love ‘fresh fruit Friday’ because after anatomy, I am able to head to the cafe and grab some food.”
“I joined these organizations to get more involved in school and the community. I have enjoyed getting to know my classmates and community through these opportunities,” she said.
Hunter’s goal is to become a hand therapist.
“ATSU is helping me prepare for this career by giving me the opportunity by being one of the hand therapy SIS leads,” she said.
She found that on ATSU-ASHS’ Mesa, Arizona, campus.
“I chose A.T. Still University because of its strong commitment to serving underserved communities and promoting diversity, which closely aligns with my own passion for making healthcare accessible to all,” she said. “ATSU’s focus on whole person healthcare and its emphasis on cultural competency resonate with my belief that effective healthcare requires understanding and addressing the unique needs of diverse populations.
“I appreciate that ATSU partners with community health centers and actively works in areas where healthcare resources are limited. This approach will give me hands-on experience serving a wide variety of patient backgrounds and learning how to address disparities in a real, impactful way. Ultimately, I’m inspired by ATSU’s commitment to training healthcare providers who can bridge gaps in care and foster inclusivity.”
Khamkhay is from Honolulu, Hawai’i, and has a bachelor’s degree in biology from University of Hawaii at Manoa. She’s quickly become part of the ATSU community and serves as a student ambassador.
“I love being a student ambassador because it gives me a chance to make a real difference in someone’s journey to becoming a PA. Giving campus tours and answering questions lets me help prospective students see themselves here, feel comfortable, and envision how they can thrive in our program. It’s rewarding to ease their worries, provide insights that I wish I’d had, and share my own experiences. Whether it’s about academics or campus life, I’m excited to support them in making such an important decision about their future,” she said.
Also, as a first-generation Southeast Asian college student, Khamkhay was eager to share her experiences with others from diverse backgrounds.
“Navigating college life and higher education systems as the first in my family has taught me how meaningful guidance and community support can be,” she said. “I wanted to use my journey to inspire and assist others who may feel a bit lost or unsure, showing them that they, too, belong in these spaces.”
Khamkhay is enjoying her time as an ATSU student, saying the University brings its mission to life through meaningful, hands-on experiences, like the Didactic Clinical Experience (DCE) program.
“The DCE is unique among U.S. Physician Assistant programs because it allows us to engage in clinical mentorship starting in our first year, which is incredible for building early patient-care skills,” she said. “Through this program, I’m learning to approach each patient as a whole person, addressing not just their physical health but also considering their mental, emotional, and social needs. This experience has deepened my understanding of ATSU’s mind, body, and spirit philosophy, and it’s helped me see the value of compassionate, comprehensive care.”
She intends to carry that compassion forward into her career as a provider, aiming not only to treat but fully understand and connect with patients in underserved communities.
“I want to be someone who can break down barriers to healthcare and make a positive impact on the lives of people who may otherwise feel overlooked by the healthcare system,” Khamkhay said. “ATSU’s dedication to whole person healthcare and community-focused training is helping me build the skills and mindset to achieve this.”
Pursuing a Doctor of Audiology degree isn’t an easy task. It takes a level of commitment and aptitude not shared by all.
“I enjoy the schedule that we have. We always have one day off per week,” she said. “This allows us to catch up on studying or to take care of personal needs. This schedule encourages me to take care of myself and give myself breaks when needed.”
Skare is from Eden Prairie, Minnesota, and has degrees in speech-language-hearing sciences and integrative neuroscience from University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. At ATSU, she found a school offering emerging technologies to students, while focusing on clinical education and providing opportunities to work with patients during the first semester on campus.
“I’m not sure what setting I would like to work in professionally, but I hope to be successful in whatever setting I choose,” she said. “The faculty members are helping to prepare me for my career by providing different clinical experiences to me in different settings that I’m interested in.”
Skare serves as fundraising co-chair for the Student Academy of Audiology and as an ATSU student ambassador.
“I joined the Student Academy of Audiology (SAA) because it is a great way to connect with the other cohorts within the program. SAA puts on several events each year to benefit other students at ATSU, as well as the local Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing population. These events include E.A.R. Day and the earmold fundraiser.
“I became an ambassador because I want to be able to share my experience with applicants in hopes that it will give them clarity in what they want in an educational program. I enjoy giving tours and answering any questions that applicants have. It is gratifying to get to be a friendly face for them while going through an otherwise stressful situation.”
