Opportunities, mission of ATSU-SOMA set school apart from the field, student says
Posted: October 1, 2024When Lark Amoa, OMS II, was considering medical schools, A.T. Still University’s School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona (ATSU-SOMA) offered a lot of advantages. The program design, offering opportunities for clinical experiences in underserved communities, fit her passion for pursuing medicine in the first place.
When Amoa, from Gaithersburg, Maryland, arrived and began taking classes on the University’s Mesa, Arizona, campus, she found even more opportunities that set ATSU-SOMA apart from the field.
“I enjoy all of the unique experiences we have! Not many medical students can say they learned ultrasound in their first year, learned how to read and interpret radiologic imaging, ran simulations including a mass casualty one involving local health personnel (EMT, police, fire, etc.),” Amoa said. “ATSU-SOMA provides us so much experience that truly sets us up for success come rotations, residency, and further training.”
Amoa has a bachelor’s degree in biology and master’s degree in biomedical science. As an ATSU-SOMA student, she’s gotten involved in many organizations including the Ultrasound Interest Group, SOMA^2, Emergency Medicine Club, student ambassadors, and the Peer-Assisted Learning (PAL) program.
“I joined the PAL and ATSU Student Ambassador programs because one of my greatest joys and passions is being a mentor to others. I think it’s important to guide others and help steer them in the direction of the path they are trying to obtain,” she said.
“I became a student ambassador because I understand the importance of having a positive role model you can look up to. It’s not only about serving the School, but helping someone make a decision that can change their life for the better by helping them see all they can achieve. It’s also great seeing someone who looks like you or is similar to you thriving at a program. It can be the push you need to accept.”
Her mentorship isn’t limited to ATSU, as Amoa mentors minority pre-med students in high school through another program, as well. It all combines to help Amoa gain the experience she’s seeking to become a community-oriented physician.
“I hope to be a practicing attending physician in a field I love, serving urban communities who desperately need medical help,” she said. “ATSU is helping me by giving me unique training and experience in an underserved community that will set me up for success come time for residency.”