As the first in her family to enter the healthcare field, Como is passionate about demystifying the path for others. This drive led her to become a student ambassador, where she provides the same judgment-free guidance that helped her feel at home during her own interview process. Whether she is advocating for rural healthcare access, enjoying a post-exam party with her ATSU family, or recharging in the great outdoors with her guitar, Como embodies the program’s mission of service and community.
Why did you choose the PA program at ATSU-ASHS?
“I chose ATSU-ASHS because of its mission. I’m from a rural community myself, so the program’s emphasis on providing care to the underserved really spoke to my heart. From the first moment I stepped on campus, everyone seemed like one big family and treated me with such kindness, and it just felt like home.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“I really enjoy the sense of community at ATSU! The faculty is so unbelievably amazing and they truly care about each and every one of us, and make the time to form personal relationships with the students. I have never once felt alone or unsupported. The faculty really goes out of their way to make sure that we not only do well in school, but we do well in life. From goody baskets to trick-or-treating to post-exam parties, the faculty makes the PA school experience feel like a supportive community and I love being a part of it!”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-ASHS helping prepare you for your career?
“In the future, I’d really like to give back to rural communities like the one I came from. I am very passionate about everyone having access to good medical care and ATSU-ASHS believes in that same philosophy. They have already given us so much information and opportunities to address gaps in the healthcare system and it’s something I will carry with me into my future career.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I’m the first person in my family to go into healthcare. It can be really confusing and overwhelming to navigate that system alone, and I definitely felt really lost and a bit silly at times for not knowing the things other people seemed to. When I was touring, the ambassadors were people I could ask those questions to without fear or judgement, and it meant a lot to me. I wanted to make sure I could be that person for someone else! I really enjoy being able to answer people’s questions and ease the worry surrounding PA school. It’s a great feeling to be able to empower others to have confidence going into their interviews and begin their program!”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“In my free time, I really enjoy things like drawing, reading, playing my guitar, and spending time with my friends and family! I’m also pretty outdoorsy and love things like camping and hiking.”
Currently serving as the mental health special interest section lead for the Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA), Lopez is a vocal advocate for mental health awareness. Between her roles as a student ambassador and her participation in interprofessional collaboration with peer programs, she finds balance by exploring Arizona’s hiking trails and local farmers’ markets. In this Q&A, Lopez discusses the importance of interdisciplinary learning and why she is excited to pay it forward to the next generation of ATSU students.
Why did you choose the OTD program at ATSU-ASHS?
“I chose ATSU-ASHS because I’ve always wanted to live in Arizona and the School’s occupational therapy program fit all of my needs. It is a beautiful campus in a great area, with great professors and curriculum that will prepare me to be the best OT I can be.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?
“I love being an ATSU student because of the diversity, the many opportunities for professional development, volunteer opportunities, and for all the great friends I have made. Another great part about ATSU is all the events they have, such as flag football, Founder’s Day, and the Healthcare Expo, which I am excited to experience this spring. These events make me proud to go to school at ATSU and I am so happy with my decision.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-ASHS helping prepare you for your career?
“After earning my doctorate in occupational therapy at ATSU-ASHS, I hope to work as a pediatric occupational therapist in a nontraditional setting. ATSU is preparing me for my career by allowing me to learn from amazing professors who actively practice in the field. ATSU has a range of programs such as physical therapy, speech-language pathology, and physician assistants, giving me the opportunity to learn and collaborate with other students in other disciplines. This interprofessional learning experience is helping me build the skills needed to work effectively on interprofessional teams in the future.”
Why did you choose to join different student organizations?
“I joined SOTA because I wanted to be a part of a club that promotes all areas that occupational therapists can make an impact. I chose to become the mental health lead because mental health is an under-addressed issue, but it is very important for reducing stress and improving engagement and adherence. I am excited to create events that support positive mental health while educating my peers on the importance of it for ourselves and the patients we will one day serve.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I chose to become a student ambassador because I wanted to give back. When I was choosing a graduate program, I remember having a lot of questions and was very curious about the process and what being in graduate school would look like. Hearing from a current student was very helpful because they were living the experience I was about to enter. I hope to offer the same support to future students and help them feel at ease, just like the previous student ambassadors helped me! Their excitement and positive words made choosing ATSU so much easier and I am excited to pay that forward.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“Outside of school, I love hiking, going to farmers’ markets, shopping, and going for walks outside. Living in Arizona makes it easier to get in physical activity and enjoy time in the sun, which is what fills my cup.”
This expansion is a strategic response to the rising demand for access to oral healthcare across Missouri and the Midwest.
“ATSU is grateful to CODA for granting our request to increase enrollment at ATSU-MOSDOH,” said ATSU Chancellor Craig M. Phelps, DO, ’84. “Every student dentist represents thousands of future patients. As we prepare to welcome more students to our Kirksville, Missouri, campus and St. Louis location, we remain dedicated to providing exemplary educational and clinical experiences to improve the health outcomes of their future patients for decades to come.”
“This approval from CODA is a validation of our program’s strength and our commitment to the region,” said ATSU Vice Chancellor for Academic Support and ATSU-MOSDOH Interim Dean Don Altman, DDS, DHSc, EdD, ’12. “By increasing our class size, we are proactively addressing the growing demand for dental professionals and ensuring that more communities have access to the high-quality, compassionate care for which our graduates are known.”
ATSU-MOSDOH’s unique structure brings first- and second-year students to the University’s Kirksville, Missouri, campus, where they study basic sciences and principles of patient care in the classroom and complete exercises in a state-of-the-art dental simulation clinic. In their third and fourth years, ATSU-MOSDOH students transition to the clinical environment by providing faculty-supervised patient care at the St. Louis Dental Center, operated in partnership with Affinia Healthcare, a federally qualified health center.
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About A.T. Still University of Health Sciences Established in 1892 by A.T. Still, DO, the founder of osteopathic medicine, A.T. Still University of Health Sciences (ATSU) began as the nation’s first college of osteopathic medicine and has evolved into a leading university of health sciences comprised of a growing community with a rich history in education and osteopathic healthcare. Today, ATSU offers certificates and master’s degrees across health disciplines; and doctorates in athletic training, audiology, health administration, education, health sciences, medical science, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, dental medicine, and osteopathic medicine.
Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health Established in 2013, A.T. Still University’s Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health (ATSU-MOSDOH) offers an innovative curriculum with an emphasis on public health, leadership, and practice. ATSU-MOSDOH addresses the oral healthcare disparities in Missouri and across the nation. In addition to the issues of oral health and skills of dentistry, students learn from and are encouraged to become caring, community-minded healthcare providers.
CODA statement The program in dental education is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation and has been granted the accreditation status of “approval without reporting requirements”. The Commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. The Commission on Dental Accreditation can be contacted at (800) 232-6108 or at 401 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 3300, Chicago, IL 60611-4250. The Commission’s web address is: https://coda.ada.org/.
For A.T. Still University-School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona (ATSU-SOMA) student Zachary Brooks, OMS I, medical school is about more than just textbooks – it’s about giving back to the community where he grew up. A Peoria, Arizona native and University of Arizona alumnus, Brooks shares how ATSU-SOMA’s compassionate environment and rigorous board preparation are helping him reach his goals.
Why did you choose ATSU-SOMA?
“I chose ATSU-SOMA because of the location, allowing me to learn the practice of medicine within the community I grew up in and look to serve further in the future, the sense of community instilled by the faculty and students, and the immense compassion held by every individual on this campus.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU-SOMA student?
“I really enjoy the community that is fostered at ATSU-SOMA. The faculty and student body are friendly, compassionate, and always willing to be there when you need it most. I also love the sense of preparedness I am given for board exams. The material we are given comes straight from the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination), so I am never missing anything that would be relevant for the exam, ensuring my success.”
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What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-SOMA helping prepare you for your career?
“I hope to one day become a doctor specializing in either anesthesiology or emergency medicine who prioritizes patients and their well being first, while trying to find the root cause of all issues. I look forward to serving my fellow military members and those in my community.
“ATSU-SOMA is helping prepare me for my career by always making sure I am never struggling, providing any resource for students that one could think of. The faculty is always willing and able to answer any questions, ensuring I am never lost or confused. ATSU-SOMA is always helping me prepare not only academically, but also professionally, assisting with the creation of documents like CVs and research articles, along with ensuring we will be prepared for the residency and the future.”
Why did you choose to join different student organizations, such as the Anesthesia Interest Group (AIG), Anatomy Club, and Persian Student Association?
“I enjoy serving as the treasurer of AIG because it gives me the great opportunity to organize events for our wonderful club members. We have some fun activities in the works coming soon that we can’t wait to share with everyone.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I became a student ambassador because of my love for this school and the feeling of wanting to do more, especially for those that are in a position I was not too long ago. I enjoy expressing to others why I like this school so much and how it would be a great fit for anyone’s medical education journey.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“Outside of ATSU I love to run, play soccer, and tinker with Lego.”
Thunhorst is originally from Cincinnati and graduated from Brigham Young University with a biology degree.
Why did you choose ATSU-ASDOH?
“I chose ATSU-ASDOH because I could tell the faculty really cared for each other and their students. It felt like a family and that was the culture I wanted to be a part of. ASDOH also has a really nice campus with state-of-the-art technology that I was really interested in. Although the summer heat is real, you also can’t beat the Arizona fall, winter, and spring weather.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU-ASDOH student?
“I hope to become a clinically strong dentist who can help others in pain, discomfort, or who are ashamed of their smile, find relief and joy in smiling again.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-ASDOH helping prepare you for your career?
“I have really enjoyed becoming part of a new family. Having a smaller class size has allowed me to form relationships with everyone in my class and it has been so unique and fun learning about everyone’s backgrounds. From trying new foods to playing new games, our class events and get-togethers have been a blast to bring everyone closer together and form life-long friendships.”
Why did you choose to join different student organizations, including the ASDOH Orthodontic Specialty Club and Student Government Association?
“I ran for class president because I wanted to help and serve my classmates during our time in dental school. I wanted to be a voice for our class and build strong relationships with them and with the faculty to improve our experience here. I am also a member of the ASDOH Orthodontic Specialty Club because I would like to become an orthodontist after graduating from dental school. Learning from the current residents during club meetings has been super fun and I hope to be in their shoes one day.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I wanted to become a student ambassador to help others who want to come to ATSU-ASDOH learn more about the school and how to become a stronger applicant. When I was applying to ASDOH, the student ambassador that I chatted with on my interview day really solidified that this was the school for me and I wanted to be that same example for future classmates.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“I love playing hockey. I have played since I was 3 years old. Love watching sports (NHL, NFL, college football, etc). I love hiking, camping, climbing, and repelling, watching movies and TV shows, and finding and trying new restaurants.”
A graduate of Arizona State University, where she majored in medical studies, MacCrone discusses everything from the inspiration of former colleagues to the local coffee trucks on campus, offering an inside look at life as an ATSU-ASHS PA student. Read more about her journey of building professional accountability, serving the community, and finding balance outside of the classroom.
Why did you choose ATSU-ASHS?
“Aside from the beautiful campus and welcoming faculty and advisors, I chose ATSU-ASHS because as a medical assistant in dermatology, I worked with two providers who graduated from the same campus (one was a DO, and one was a PA who I worked very closely with). I wanted to follow in their footsteps as successful providers as I saw how much they influenced my own experience and growth within healthcare. Not to mention, ATSU’s PA program’s PANCE stats are continuously exceptional.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU-ASHS PA student?
“I love the support that we receive as students. It is so much easier to go to school every day knowing that there is so much love, support, and dedication by every faculty member and advisor. They truly emphasize that they want to see each student succeed and will do everything in their power to make sure that it happens, oftentimes going out of their way to do so. The faculty really spends time on building meaningful relationships with students, even though there are 100 of us! Our school is great about putting on fun events such as the basketball and flag football games, where all of the programs are integrated together, and my personal favorite, Founder’s Day Open House AKA carnival and free food/activities. The coffee truck in the morning and Food Truck Thursdays are also a huge pick-me-up!”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-ASHS helping prepare you for your career as a PA?
“I hope to become the most reliable, compassionate, and hard-working physician assistant that I can possibly be. I want to be wherever my community needs me, whether that be in primary care, ER, etc. I truly just want to do good for others and utilize my skills where they will be needed the most. ATSU-ASHS helps prepare me to become a PA by making sure I am held accountable as a student and, most importantly, as a future provider. They focus on whole person healthcare with an emphasis on underserved populations and building competent providers that truly care about their patients and community.”
Why did you choose to join different student organizations, like the Kettel Society?
“I initially heard about Kettel Society and becoming a student ambassador during an information session held during lunch on the first week of classes. Naturally, at first, I wasn’t sure if I would be able to even handle doing anything extracurricular, but I was quickly encouraged to be as active as possible within my ATSU community. I am so grateful for the opportunities that I have had while being in both. I cannot picture my didactic year being any different and I am really happy that I made that leap of faith even when it did not seem quite achievable. I also get to spend a lot of time with my peers outside of lectures, which is super fun to see how all of our personalities mold together.”
Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?
“I became a student ambassador because I knew that it would allow me to become involved within my school and community. I was excited to contribute to future students’ experiences and I wanted to be a positive reflection of my program! I remember the student ambassadors being such a great resource throughout my own interview process, and I wanted to have that same effect and offer the same support for others. Not only is my goal to be an important resource, but also a friend.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“Outside of my time studying I enjoy cooking, gardening, traveling, spending time outdoors, and watching my boyfriend’s hockey games on Friday nights. I am always down for a good happy hour and spending time with friends and family. I also frequently plan events for my class outside of school to participate in and volunteer monthly with other classmates at the Food Bank in Mesa. I’m still a waitress at a small, family-owned Mexican restaurant in Chandler that I have worked at for 10 years, so you will find me picking up shifts whenever I am able to to catch up with my regulars!”
Selected following a national search, Dr. Smith returns to ATSU from MaineHealth in Portland, Maine, where she has been vice president for academic affairs since 2021. An accomplished leader and the former dental director for the State of Arizona, Dr. Smith’s extensive background includes senior academic roles at ATSU’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, ATSU-MOSDOH, and the University of New England College of Dental Medicine. Her deep roots with ATSU also include serving as associate dean for education and as a member of the inaugural leadership team at ATSU’s Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health.
“I am honored to be named as the next dean of ATSU’s Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health and to be returning to the University,” Dr. Smith said. “I look forward to leading an incredible team of educators and team members as we continue to welcome high-performing students committed to excellence and work to improve the health of our communities. I am committed to collaborating with University and community leaders, and connecting with alumni and partners.”
As dean and chief academic officer, Dr. Smith will lead ATSU-MOSDOH’s academic programs and clinical enterprise, overseeing the School’s operations on both the Kirksville, Missouri, campus and at the St. Louis Dental Center, where oral healthcare services are provided through a partnership with Affinia Healthcare.
“We are pleased to welcome Dr. Smith back to ATSU,” said ATSU Chancellor Craig M. Phelps, DO, ’84. “Her recognized leadership in curricular design, assessment, accreditation, and health professions education aligns strongly with ATSU’s mission and MOSDOH’s continued commitment to educational excellence and community service.”
“With more than 30 years of combined experience in dental education, public health, and academic healthcare leadership, Dr. Smith brings expertise in strategic visioning, analytic skills, and leadership,” said ATSU Missouri Campus President Gaylah Sublette, MBA. “She is dedicated to empowering students, faculty, and staff to achieve their full potential while advancing oral health and dental education.”
Her funded scholarship has been supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Delta Dental foundations, private philanthropy, and state agencies with focuses on educational innovation, access to care for rural and underserved populations, health workforce development, and population health.
A.T. Still University-Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health (ATSU-ASDOH) student Kort Myers, D2, didn’t need to go too far to find the dental school that was right for him. Myers is from Mesa, Arizona, and attended Arizona State University where he majored in medical studies, with a minor in business.
Why did you choose ATSU-ASDOH?
“As an Arizona native, I grew up driving past ATSU every day on my way to junior high, high school, and eventually undergrad. When it came time to choose a graduate program, I knew that I wanted to stay close to home and family while receiving a high quality education. ATSU-ASDOH offered that and much more. The school’s strong clinical training, combined with a well-organized curriculum, ensured I would gain both hands-on experience and the knowledge needed to succeed. With its combination of excellent academics, invaluable clinical opportunities, and close proximity to family, choosing ATSU-ASDOH was an easy decision.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU-ASDOH student?
“It’s important to me to remember the health of an individual goes beyond solving a single issue and involves a systemic, whole-person approach. ATSU-ASDOH continually strives to embody this holistic health philosophy in both classroom and clinical experience, which will be invaluable as I grow into a future dental professional.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU helping prepare you for your career?
“ATSU-ASDOH does an excellent job of introducing students into the pace and rigor of dental school while still allowing time for personal well-being. Despite the stresses of school, I rarely feel overwhelmed because the program balances academic challenges with support and resources that help students succeed and maintain overall wellness.”
Why did you choose to join different student organizations? You serve as vice president of ASDOH’s class of 2028 in addition to serving with the American Student Dental Association (ASDA), Hispanic Student Dental Association (HSDA), Special Care Dentistry Association, Orthodontic Specialty Club, and Give Kids a Smile.
“As class vice president, I have an opportunity, alongside our class president, to advocate for continued improvements on behalf of our entire class. It’s an important and humbling role, knowing that I have the support of my classmates. I have enjoyed leading by example and being someone they can rely on.
“I joined HSDA as an education co-chair to help students at ATSU-ASDOH feel more confident in engaging in conversations with our Hispanic patient population. Learning Spanish as a second language while living in El Salvador has allowed me to develop skills to support non-native speakers as they learn and communicate. This has been especially rewarding, as we serve many patients with Hispanic backgrounds.
“I also wanted to be involved in life outside of dental school by promoting, planning, and coordinating events that allow students to decompress and enjoy themselves. As a member of the ASDA activities committee, I have helped organize golf and pickleball tournaments, socials, and other recreational events for staff and students to enjoy.”
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 connecting with applicants and prospective students and serving as a resource for those pursuing their path to dental school. I’ve always found it rewarding when people seek guidance and I am able to share my experiences to support them. As a student ambassador, I have the opportunity to do this through meaningful engagement with prospective students, answering questions, and helping them feel confident about their journey.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
I enjoy playing slow pitch softball, watching college football and baseball – especially the Sun Devils and the Arizona Diamondbacks – running, grilling, and spending time with my wife!
“ATSU-KCOM felt like home when I stepped onto campus. The students and staff were all so welcoming and encouraging when I came for my interview day, and that really stuck with me.”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU-KCOM student?
“What I love about being an ATSU-KCOM student is the camaraderie and support within my class. Given the structure of this education, I have learned to lean on my peers and my professors when I am going through a difficult time. Being at ATSU means I have built-in friends for life. I especially love that the school puts on events where we can relax and have fun. My friends and I get so excited for the karaoke night and Halloween party every year. In fact, my friends and I won the costume contest at this year’s Halloween party!”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-KCOM helping prepare you for your career?
“My goal is to be a pediatrician and to practice in my home state of Arizona. ATSU-KCOM is providing me with the education and the skills to perform this job, but it is also preparing me by helping me believe in myself and my abilities. Through the support of the staff and my peers, I am being prepared to become the best physician I can be.”
Why did you choose to join different student organizations, including the Pediatrics Club, Still Kids Club, Gamma Beta Phi, Sigma Sigma Phi, Family Medicine Club, and Point of Care Ultrasound Club?
“As someone who wants to be a pediatrician, I have enjoyed being a member of our two pediatrics-focused clubs here on campus. Through them, I have gained valuable insight into what it is like working with children and how to best serve that patient population. I have especially enjoyed tutoring kids at the local elementary and high school throughout my time at ATSU-KCOM.”
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 give an honest look at what life is like at ATSU to prospective students. The positive attitude and genuine love for the school that the student ambassadors displayed on my interview day was a large factor in my decision to attend. I hope through my time as an ambassador that I am able to make prospective students feel welcomed and leave with an understanding of all that the school has to offer.”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“I really enjoy writing poetry. It is a way for me to unwind and melt away any of the stress I am feeling. I wrote and self-published a poetry chapbook at the beginning of the year that I am really proud of.
“I also do a lighthearted video series on my social media page, where I do interpretive dances of different medical topics. I like doing this because I love to dance and it’s been the perfect blend of being active and learning to not take myself too seriously.”
Originally from Speedway, Indiana, Rendes has a degree in biology from the University of Southern Indiana, and will complete her master’s program at ATSU-KCOM in 2027.
Why did you choose ATSU-KCOM?
“I chose ATSU-KCOM for their biomed program, as it seemed like the best fit for me!”
What do you enjoy about being an ATSU-KCOM student?
“I love how all the professors and staff truly do care about each student and want us to succeed.”
What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-KCOM’s biomedical sciences program helping prepare you for your career?
“I hope to become a general physician, and by coming to ATSU-KCOM for the biomed program it increases my chances. However, the master’s program also sets me up for success even if I don’t end up going to medical school, as I will have gained research experience and could get a job in that.”
Why did you choose to join the Biomedical Science Club?
“I joined it to get to know the others in the program better and for the volunteering opportunities!”
What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?
“Reading, embroidery, sewing, hanging out with my cat, Garlic, and spending time with friends and family. I also love to go shopping.”
