Louisiana

Maysoon Makhlouf

ebailey — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 15:40:58 +0000

Maysoon Makhlouf ebailey Tue, 04/15/2025 - 11:40

Maysoon Makhlouf

Research Lab Assistant

Department/Discipline: Biomedical Affairs and Research

Campus: Louisiana

Email: mmakhlouf@ulm.vcom.edu

ҹɫ��-Louisiana and ULM Kitty DeGree School of Nursing Students Participate in CERT Training: An Interdisciplinary Collaborative Event Enhancing Disaster Preparedness

ebailey — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 17:45:55 +0000

ҹɫ��-Louisiana and ULM Kitty DeGree School of Nursing Students Participate in CERT Training: An Interdisciplinary Collaborative Event Enhancing Disaster Preparedness ebailey Fri, 04/11/2025 - 13:45

ҹɫ��-Louisiana and ULM Kitty DeGree School of Nursing Students Participate in CERT Training: An Interdisciplinary Collaborative Event Enhancing Disaster Preparedness

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On April 8, 2025, ҹɫ��-Louisiana's second-year medical students participated in a two-day Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program training. This event, aimed at preparing future healthcare professionals for disaster response, was made possible through a remarkable collaboration of several agencies, each contributing their expertise to create a comprehensive and interdisciplinary learning experience.

The CERT program, established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), educates volunteers on the fundamentals of disaster preparedness and teaches vital response skills such as fire safety, light search and rescue, disaster medical operations, and team organization. This training empowers CERT-trained individuals—including physicians—to provide immediate assistance, organize volunteers, and support emergency services during a crisis. The ultimate goal is to train individuals who can support their families and communities when professional responders may be delayed or overwhelmed.

The CERT training of ҹɫ��-Louisiana students is the result of a unique partnership between the College and Volunteer Louisiana within the Office of Louisiana Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser. The objective is to educate future doctors about disaster readiness and response, ensuring that these medical professionals are equipped to serve as volunteers during a disaster so they can respond effectively when needed. This is the third year CERT training has been integrated into the ҹɫ��-Louisiana curriculum.

Day one was skills training for all eight units of CERT. Day two of the training featured an interdisciplinary exercise showcasing the power of collaboration. Nursing students from the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) Kitty DeGree School of Nursing played the role of “tornado victims” in a mass casualty scenario, providing valuable practice for ҹɫ�� students in rescuing victims and managing disaster-related injuries. Serving as simulated “tornado victims” was more than just role-playing for the nursing students—it was a valuable experiential learning opportunity. By participating in the mass casualty exercise, the nursing students could observe emergency response protocols firsthand and gain insight into the coordination and communication during high-stress, multi-agency situations. It also offered a chance to experience patient care from a different perspective, deepening their empathy and understanding of trauma-informed care. This collaboration allowed osteopathic medical and nursing students to appreciate each other's vital role in disaster response.

Disaster Day helps prepare our students for the unfortunate reality that they may one day be involved in a disaster. It gives them a deeper understanding of the many professionals involved in pre-hospital care and what it takes to get someone to the hospital. That awareness makes them more compassionate and informed when patients arrive for care. It also prepares them to act. They’ll have the skills to step in and help if they encounter a disaster.

John Lipka, MD , Associate Dean for Simulation and Technology Discipline Co-Chair and Assistant Professor for Surgery

Numerous local agencies played a key role in ensuring the success of this training. The ULM Police Department provided critical instruction on responding to active shooter scenarios, terrorism, cybersecurity, and workplace violence. The Ouachita Parish Fire Department shared expertise on fire safety, utility controls, and using CERT backpacks—essential disaster response kits provided by Volunteer Louisiana’s Volunteer Generation Fund (VGF) grant The West Monroe Police Department (WMPD) led training on light search and rescue, ensuring students were prepared to assist in locating and rescuing survivors during emergencies.

ҹɫ��-Louisiana’s two mobile medical units—made possible through a partnership with the Ouachita Parish Police Jury—were integrated into the exercises, giving students hands-on experience in triaging patients as it served to house necessary triage supplies. Additionally, the American Red Cross, in collaboration with Volunteer America, ran shelter simulation exercises to prepare students for managing shelter operations during a disaster. “ҹɫ��-Louisiana medical students are likely to serve in a shelter in disaster relief, which is why the Red Cross shelter exercises are so important,” Dr. Lipka explained. “After this training, they’re certified and eligible to be activated through the hospital where they’re completing their rotation, should a disaster occur in that area.”

A special note of gratitude is extended to MKay Bonner, PhD, of the ULM psychology department and Mark Johnson, PhD, of the ULM criminal justice department. Johnson planned and executed the day-two mass casualty incident simulation with support from West Monroe CERT team leader Jim Addison and ULM’s campus CERT team members. Also, WMPD Captain CJ Beck and community members from the West Monroe CERT team planned and executed the light search and rescue simulation exercise on day one.

Special thanks are also extended to the Louisiana Baptists Disaster Relief, who provided meals for all participants throughout the two-day event. These contributions were invaluable in ensuring the success of the training and the students' readiness to serve their communities in the face of a disaster.

This two-day training was more than just an educational opportunity—it demonstrated the power of interagency collaboration. The combined efforts of each organization have ensured that ҹɫ��-Louisiana students are prepared and equipped to step up in times of crisis. With this knowledge and hands-on experience, they are ready to make a difference in their communities when disaster strikes.

outreach

Louisiana

By Danielle Voumard -

Shaista Qureshi

ebailey — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 14:08:49 +0000

Shaista Qureshi ebailey Fri, 03/21/2025 - 10:08

Shaista Qureshi, MD

Faculty for Family Medicine and Graduate Medical Education

Department/Disciplines: Family Medicine, Post–Graduate Affairs

Campus: Louisiana

Email: squreshi@ulm.vcom.edu

Tanya Kumar: ҹɫ��-Louisiana’s 2025 Student Researcher of the Year

ebailey — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 13:23:09 +0000

Tanya Kumar: ҹɫ��-Louisiana’s 2025 Student Researcher of the Year ebailey Fri, 03/14/2025 - 09:23

Tanya Kumar: ҹɫ��-Louisiana’s 2025 Student Researcher of the Year

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Tanya Kumar, a member of the Class of 2025 at the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (ҹɫ��)-Louisiana, is a standout student and a passionate advocate for research, mentorship, and community service. Hailing from the suburbs of Houston, Texas, Tanya’s path to becoming the 2025 Student Researcher of the Year is a testament to her dedication, perseverance, and the invaluable mentorship she has received throughout her academic journey.

A Journey Rooted in Passion for Science

Tanya’s passion for research started long before she entered medical school. A graduate of the University of Houston, Tanya majored in honors biomedical sciences while minoring in chemistry, public health, and medicine and society. She also earned a certification in corporate entrepreneurship. Her academic foundation laid the groundwork for her current role in research at ҹɫ��.

Inspiration from Family and Early Mentorship

Tanya credits her parents, both organic chemists turned biomedical scientists, as her primary sources of inspiration. Growing up, she admired how they balanced their rigorous scientific work with a deep passion for research and discovery. Her parents’ influence, both at home and in the lab, helped instill in her the values of resilience, discipline, and continuous growth.

“They held me to the same high standards as other interns in the lab,” Tanya shared. “At home, they were my biggest supporters, helping me navigate challenges and teaching me concepts I struggled with. Their impact on my journey was immense, and they’ve always encouraged me to stand on my own.”

The DO with Research Distinction Pathway

When Tanya arrived at ҹɫ��-Louisiana, she knew she wanted to integrate research into her medical career, though she wasn’t initially aware of the DO with Research Distinction program which allows students to engage in meaningful research projects while earning their Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree. It wasn’t until her second year that a friend introduced her to the program. After researching the opportunity, Tanya contacted Zakaria Abd Elmageed, MS, PhD, discipline chair and assistant professor for pharmacology, who became a key mentor in helping her pursue the path.

Earning my DO with Research Distinction has helped me refine my critical thinking skills and deepened my commitment to evidence-based medicine. It has also given me the tools to bridge the gap between bench and bedside, ultimately improving patient care.

Tanya Kumar , ҹɫ��-Louisiana Class of 2025

A Journey of Hard Work and Achievement

Tanya’s most memorable research experience at ҹɫ�� has been studying anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and its role in ovarian reserve—which refers to a woman's reproductive potential based on the quantity and quality of her remaining eggs—as well as its connection to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and granulosa cell tumors. Her interest in AMH began in high school and has since come full circle, becoming a central focus of her medical research.

Her dedication to research has resulted in eight peer-reviewed publications in journals including Clinical Chemistry, Endocrine Reviews, Cancer Research, Fertility and Sterility, Journal of Clinical Medicine, and Cureus. She has also presented her findings at major academic conferences, such as the Endocrine Society Annual Meeting in Boston in 2024 and the American Association for Cancer Research annual meetings in Houston in 2020 and 2021.

Recognizing her outstanding contributions, the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine Council of Osteopathic Student Government Presidents named her Student Researcher of the Year. Tanya has seamlessly integrated her passion for research with her medical training, equipping her for the next phase of her career—residency and beyond.

The Rewarding Side of Research at ҹɫ��

Balancing research with clinical rotations in her third and fourth years was no easy feat. Still, Tanya credits her colleagues' and faculty's unwavering support and mentorship for making it possible. Whether it meant long hours in the lab or traveling between clinical sites, Tanya could dedicate herself to her research while preparing for her future in medicine.

“The most rewarding part of my research journey has been the support I’ve received from my team,” Tanya reflected. “We worked together to troubleshoot experiments, collaborate on new ideas, and support each other through every challenge. These experiences and the opportunity to present at conferences have shaped me into the researcher and physician I am today.”

Advice for Future Research Students at ҹɫ��

Tanya's advice is simple for students interested in pursuing research at ҹɫ��: Start early. “Get involved in the lab as soon as possible, familiarize yourself with the environment and the techniques, and dedicate time to refining your skills as you progress through the years. The more you invest, the more you gain from the experience.”

Tanya’s commitment to research, mentorship, and community service has earned her the well-deserved Student Researcher of the Year title. As she prepares to graduate this May, Tanya is poised to make a significant impact in medicine and is committed to helping others realize their potential in research and healthcare.

award Research

Louisiana

By Danielle Voumard -

Jonas Rawlins

ebailey — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 14:25:00 +0000

Jonas Rawlins ebailey Wed, 03/12/2025 - 10:25

Jonas Rawlins, DO, FACP

Associate Vice President for International Education and Outreach and Associate Professor for Internal Medicine

Department/Disciplines: International and Appalachian Outreach, Internal Medicine

Campuses: Virginia, Auburn, Carolinas, Louisiana

Email: jrawlins@vt.vcom.edu

ҹɫ��-Louisiana Celebrates Research Excellence at 3rd Annual Via Research Recognition Day – DiGiuseppe and Kumar Earn Top Honors

ebailey — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 13:42:02 +0000

ҹɫ��-Louisiana Celebrates Research Excellence at 3rd Annual Via Research Recognition Day – DiGiuseppe and Kumar Earn Top Honors ebailey Thu, 03/06/2025 - 08:42

ҹɫ��-Louisiana Celebrates Research Excellence at 3rd Annual Via Research Recognition Day – DiGiuseppe and Kumar Earn Top Honors

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The ҹɫ��-Louisiana campus hosted its 3rd Annual Via Research Recognition Day on Feb. 28, 2025, bringing together health professionals, scientists, and students to celebrate and advance medical research. This annual event underscores ҹɫ��’s commitment to preparing globally minded, community-focused physicians while fostering research that improves health outcomes, particularly for underserved populations.

Via Research Recognition Day provided a dynamic forum for researchers from academic institutions, teaching hospitals, and clinical practice sites to present groundbreaking work. Through keynote presentations and interactive sessions, attendees explored the latest findings in osteopathic manipulative therapy, emerging trends in physician-based research networks, and strategies for developing high-impact research projects. The event also featured a robust poster session, offering insight into biomedical, clinical, and education-simulation research conducted at ҹɫ��-Louisiana and its partner institutions.

The event expanded dramatically, with the number of presentations doubling from around 60 last year to nearly 120 this year. The vast majority featured student-led research, which was both unexpected and exciting.

Pawel Michalak, PhD , ҹɫ��-Louisiana Associate Dean for Biomedical Affairs and Research

A key milestone this year was the division of the biomedical research category into two sections—one showcasing research from ҹɫ��-affiliated presenters and another dedicated to contributions from partner institutions. This expansion underscored the event’s growing impact and the increasing enthusiasm for collaborative research within the ҹɫ�� community. Michalak elaborated, “We are excited to introduce a new category for residents, including some of our graduates returning to participate. The students are energized, and it has been great to see!”

The event featured a keynote speaker, a plenary speaker, and a poster competition. The keynote address came from James Weger-Lucarelli, PhD, assistant professor at Virginia Tech. His presentation on “Host Metabolic Status as a Key Determinant of Viral Disease Progression and Transmission” illuminated his lab’s finding that identified a causal link between metabolic disease and more severe disease outcomes upon viral infection.

P. Gunnar Brolinson, DO, vice provost for research at ҹɫ��, gave his plenary address on “The State of Research at ҹɫ��” where he shared insight into current research projects across the four campuses and future research initiatives. One aspect Dr. Brolinson shared is the success of our Research Eureka Accelerator Program (REAP), which is an internal seed grant initiative established by ҹɫ�� in 2016. Its primary objective is to foster synergy within specific research focus areas by providing substantial internal funding. REAP and other research seed funding programs encourage the development of multi-investigator teams, which may include collaborations across ҹɫ�� campuses and with external partners. The programs support both basic and translational research across various disciplines.

Our internal funding gives our investigators, both biomedical and clinical, the opportunity to collect pilot data. That pilot data is what major funding institutions — National Institutes of Health (NIH), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and National Science Foundation (NSF) —love to see. It strengthens our proposals and ultimately makes us more successful than the average institution.

Gunnar Brolinson, DO , Vice President for Research

Beyond securing external funding, the seed funding opportunities also enhance student involvement in research. “This type of intramural funding allows our faculty to engage students in their projects,” Dr. Brolinson noted. Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Brolinson emphasized how research opportunities have expanded at ҹɫ��. “When I was a first-year osteopathic medical student, I didn’t see physician-scientist careers as a real possibility. Students at all ҹɫ�� campuses can envision that path because they see it firsthand.” He also highlighted the long-term impact of ҹɫ��’s research initiatives, particularly at the founding and longest-established Virginia campus. “We’ve had alumni return to Research Day as physician-scientists, presenting their work as former ҹɫ�� students.”

In 2024, approximately $1.5 million in REAP grant funding was distributed across ҹɫ��’s four campuses, fueling innovative research and student-driven projects. This year, ҹɫ��-Louisiana was also proud to welcome back several of its graduates—now residents—who returned to participate in Research Recognition Day, showcasing the lasting influence of ҹɫ��’s research culture on their medical careers.

Two prestigious research awards were presented. The Faculty Researcher of the Year award honors a faculty member actively engaged in an externally funded research program that involves student training, has led to significant publications, and has earned national recognition. The 2025 Faculty Researcher of the Year award recipient was Stephen DiGiuseppe, PhD, assistant professor for immunology and microbiology.

The Student Researcher of the Year award recognizes a ҹɫ��-Louisiana student who demonstrates a strong commitment to research, contributes to published work during their time at ҹɫ��, participates in the DO with Research Distinction program, and presents their research at conferences. Tanya Kumar, Class of 2025, was the 2025 Student Researcher of the Year award recipient.

Reflecting on the event’s impact, Dr. Brolinson highlighted its remarkable growth, attributing it to the dedication of ҹɫ��-Louisiana’s faculty and their commitment to student mentorship. “The explosive growth of Research Recognition Day speaks to the quality of our faculty and the mentoring they provide to students—because at ҹɫ��, we are all about students. The number of students engaging in research here is incredible! Even if they don’t pursue careers as physician-scientists, participating in research during medical school lays the foundation for critical thinking that will serve them throughout their medical careers, no matter the specialty.”

With each passing year, Via Research Recognition Day further cements its role as a cornerstone of ҹɫ��-Louisiana’s research mission, fostering a culture of discovery and academic excellence.

Biomedical Research: Section 1

3rd place: EXPLORING THE ANTICANCER EFFECTS OF CAMBINOL ON CASTRATION-RESISTANT PROSTATE CANCER: AN IN VITRO STUDY

Malvina Kartamyshev, OMS-III; Tanya Kumar, OMS-IV; Dalal Dawud, B, Pharm; Zakaria Abd Elmageed, PhD

2nd place: PSEUDOMONAS AERUGINOSA TOXIN ExoY INHIBITS SIRT1-MEDIATED AUTOPHAGY TO PROMOTE PULMONOGENIC TAUOPATHY

Zachary Dickey, OMS-IV; Annie Pham, OMS-III; Krishna Patel, BS; Melissa Lipsmeyer, PhD; Kasia Michalak, MSc; Troy Stevens, PhD; Rebekah Morrow, PhD; K. Adam Morrow, PhD; Sarah Voth, PhD

1st place: CRISPR-LIKE PROPERTIES OF EUKARYOTIC 45S RIBOSOMAL 45S RNA GENE CLUSTERS

Sabeen Wazir, OMS-II; Anne B. Remorca, OMS-II; Trevor Morris, OMS-II; Erin Vasquez, OMS-II; Ariana Faraji, DO; Kasia Michalak, MSc; Lin Kang, PhD; Stephen DiGiuseppe, PhD; Pawel Michalak, PhD

Biomedical Research: Section 2

3rd place: INHIBITION OF GLUCOSYLCERAMIDE SYNTHASE REACTIVATES P53-SUPPRESSIVE EFFECTS ON CANCER STEM CELLS THROUGH M6A MODIFICATION AT P53 R273 MUTANT CODON

Md Saqline Mostaq, MS; Md Nurul Amin, MS; Amanda Raphael, P4; Davorka Sekulić, MD; Lin Kang, PhD; Pawel Michalak, PhD; Yong-Yu Liu, PhD

2nd place: THE OLIVE OIL PHENOLIC S-(-)-OLEOCANTHAL SUPPRESSES COLORECTAL CANCER PROGRESSION AND RECURRENCE BY MODULATING SMYD2-EZH2 AND C-MET ACTIVATION

Md Towhidul Islam Tarun, MS1; Heba E. Elsayed, PhD1; Hassan Y. Ebrahim, PhD1,2; Khalid A. El Sayed, PhD1*

1st place: THE MARINE-DERIVED FURANOCEMBRANOID DITERPENE SARCOPHINE SUPPRESSES METASTATIC CASTRATION RESISTANT PROSTATE CANCER PROGRESSION AND RECURRENCE VIA DOWNREGULATION OF CADHERIN-12

Abdullah Alhowiriny1; Ethar Mudhish1; Hassan Y. Ebrahim, PhD1,2; Khalid A. El Sayed, PhD1

Clinical Research

3rd place: INCIDENCE OF SACRAL SOMATIC DYSFUNCTION IN VAGINAL DELIVERY AFTER SPONTANEOUS LABOR

Gwenn Jackson, MD1; Anne Marie Ogden, OMS-III2; Jony Munholland, OMS-III3

2nd place: DRIED BLOOD SPOT ELISAS: A VIABLE ALTERNATIVE FOR AMH, LH, AND FSH ANALYSIS IN IVF PATIENTS

Tanya Kumar, OMS-IV1,2; Rahul Chauhan, MS-III2; Subodhsingh Chauhan, MD2; Bhanu Kalra, PhD1

1st place: HAND HYGIENE IN ICUS: ARE WE MISSING VITAL GROUPS?

Rabab Z. Jafry1; Kaukab I. Jafry, MD, MBBS2; Annum Faisal, CPPS3; Maryam Babar, OMS-I4; Iqbal Ratnani, MD, EdD, FCCP, FCCM5

Anatomy and Epidemiology

3rd place: GREAT SAPHENOUS VEIN PRESERVATION IS WORTHWHILE - A CADAVERIC STUDY

Marci Peck, OMS-II1; Michael Peck, MD2; Jenna Dittmar, PhD1; Cara Hanks, OMS-II1; Grace Pick, OMS-II1; Kenny-Khai Vo, OMS-II1

2nd place: ASSOCIATION OF ATHEROSCLEROTIC PLAQUE AND INTIMA-MEDIA THICKNESS OF PERIPHERAL ARTERIES TO CORONARY ARTERIES

Paxton Holder, OMS-IV; Tyson Hillock, OMS-IV; Annabel O’Conner, OMS-III; Brady Levron, OMS-III; Samantha Valaitis, OMS-III; Justin Nguyen, OMS-III; Savanna Gonzalez, OMS-III; Erick Barnard, OMS-III; Savannah Newell, PhD

1st place: A CASE STUDY OF RETROAORTIC LEFT RENAL VEIN IN AN ELDERLY DONOR WITH COMORBIDITIES

Berony Geneste, OMS-II1; Dylan Compton, OMS-II1; Emily Gregory, OMS-II1; Jimmy Nguyen, OMS-II1; Ross Carroll, OMS-II1; Viktoriya Salgalova, OMS-II1; Matthew D. Overturf, PhDD1; Uzochukwu Adabanya MD1

Case Studies: Section 1

3rd place: FUNDOPLICATION REVISION OF A RECURRENT LARGE PARA-ESOPHAGEAL HIATAL HERNIA IN A 63-YEAR-OLD FEMALE

Tristan Moseley, OMS-III1; Walter Sartor, MD2

2nd place: CHEMO AND SALIVARY SURPRISES: LOW-GRADE MUCOEPIDERMOID CARCINOMA IN A PEDIATRIC HODGKIN’S SURVIVOR

Kyra Salinkas, OMS-II; Sabeen Wazir, OMS-II; Berony Geneste, OMS-II; John Lipka, MD

1st place: IDENTIFYING ASPIRIN AS A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR TO PERSISTENT GOUT: A CASE REPORT

Justin Nguyen, OMS-III1; Matthew Overturf, PhD1; Venu Kakarala, MD2

Case Studies: Section 2

3rd place: MARANTIC ENDOCARDITIS: A RARE COMPLICATION OF ENDOMETRIAL ADENOCARCINOMA

Nisheem Pokharel, MD1; Deekshitha Manney, MD1; Mary Youssief2; Harikrishna Bandla, MD1

2nd place: PARADOXICAL EMBOLISM TO THE CORONARY ARTERY: AN UNCOMMON CAUSE OF ACUTE MYOCARDIAL INFRACTION

Swesha Shrestha, MD1; Shekhar Gurung, MD2; Nisheem Pokharel, MD; Thomas R Smith, MD4

1st place: UTERINE FIBROIDS WITH IVC COMPRESSION; A RARE CAUSE OF DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS

Rahul Robaish Kumar, MD1; FNU Arti, MD1; Sham Kumar, MD1; Harikrishna Bandla, MD1; Navin Ramlal, MD1

Research

Louisiana

By Danielle Voumard -

Emily Goode

ebailey — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 16:10:49 +0000

Emily Goode ebailey Tue, 03/04/2025 - 11:10

Emily Goode

Research Lab Assistant

Department/Discipline: Biomedical Affairs and Research

Campus: Louisiana

Email: egoode@ulm.vcom.edu

Lori Manning

ebailey — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 13:48:30 +0000

Lori Manning ebailey Mon, 02/24/2025 - 08:48

Lori Manning

Director for IT Support Services

Department/Discipline: Information Technology

Campus: Louisiana

Email: lmanning@ulm.vcom.edu

Jimmy Nguyen

ebailey — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 15:55:04 +0000

Jimmy Nguyen ebailey Fri, 02/21/2025 - 10:55

Who or what has inspired you while at ҹɫ��?

The mission trip to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, was a transformative experience for me. Being immersed in an environment where resources are limited, and the need for healthcare is critical, the trip not only underscores the importance of medical expertise but also reinforces the profound impact a physician can have on underserved communities.

This mission trip not only deepened my commitment to honing my skills but also broadened my perspective on healthcare delivery. It emphasized the importance of cultural competence, adaptability, and empathy in providing effective care. I learned to think creatively, utilizing limited resources to achieve the best possible outcomes for patients. These lessons are invaluable and have become integral to my approach to medicine.

In many ways, the mission trip reminded me of why I embarked on this journey in the first place. It reignited my passion for medicine and strengthened my resolve to be a force for positive change, both in my community and beyond. The lessons I learned in Punta Cana will forever guide me as I strive to be the best physician I can be, dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those I serve.

How has the ҹɫ�� mission inspired you as a medical student?

The mission of ҹɫ�� aligns with many of the personal and professional goals I strive to achieve as a future physician. Specifically, being from a medically underserved area in Texas, I have witnessed firsthand how physicians can invoke positive change within their community. With an interest in advocacy, I aspire to represent and advocate for medically underserved populations. As the only Osteopathic Medical School in Louisiana, students at ҹɫ�� have a unique opportunity to discuss legislation with lawmakers and physicians within our state at events like White Coat Wednesday. I was fortunate enough to witness globally-minded, community-focused physicians at work during these events. I am very fortunate to be in a position to make a positive difference in my community.

Who or what inspired you to study medicine?

During my mother's fight against cancer, I spent years learning about human sciences throughout my undergraduate and graduate studies. I developed a deeper understanding of the challenges and demands of the medical profession. Education was my respite and would place me in the best position to take care of my family. It was during my mother's treatment that I came to appreciate the significant role physicians play for people like my mother and myself. I witnessed the importance of empathy, dedication to one's patient, and appropriate bedside manners. These lessons would not soon be forgotten, and my first-hand experience with the medical field during my mother's fight reignited my passion for becoming a physician.

Why did you choose ҹɫ��?

After applying to and interviewing at medical schools around the nation, my experience at ҹɫ��-Louisiana's campus was the most personable. The faculty asked questions to really get to know me as a person, not just as a candidate. They gave us a tour of the city and fielded all of my questions without a hint of judgment. Overall, it was the best interview I had, and it offered a little sense of home, as I was born and raised in the southern part of the US.

What do you enjoy most about living in the area around your campus?

The city of Monroe hosts several little events downtown that keep our time here fun and entertaining. ҹɫ�� students are welcomed with open arms. The whole city seems to know the medical school and holds it in high regard. Also, we have access to the University of Louisiana at Monroe's (ULM) facilities, which is great for interacting with undergraduate students and using the recreation center for playing all kinds of sports!

What do you like to do in your free time?

I am a person of many hobbies. I like playing video games like basketball, golf, tennis, bowling, and football. There are recreation centers where we can play pickleball for free! A handful of golf courses range from very affordable to pricier options are also available.

Are you interested in a particular practice or specialty once you graduate? What has inspired your interest in this specialty?

I have always been interested in surgery. As of right now, this remains true. I am leaning towards Ophthalmology, but I am still interested in other fields like Gastroenterology, Interventional Radiology, and General Surgery. I am keeping my mind open to all possibilities and look forward to clinical rotations to see what will fit my personality the best!

Jimmy Nguyen

Graduated: Class of 2027

Campus: Louisiana

Prior Schools: University of Texas at Austin, University of North Texas Health Science Center

Degrees: B.S. in Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Masters of Medical Science

Hometown: Arlington, TX

Student

Chinaemerem Jeffrey Chukwudoro

ebailey — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 14:59:46 +0000

Chinaemerem Jeffrey Chukwudoro ebailey Fri, 02/21/2025 - 09:59

Who or what has inspired you while at ҹɫ��?

During my time at ҹɫ��, I have been most inspired by the incredible sense of community among my classmates. No matter how challenging or stressful the workload gets, my peers are always there for one another. Whether it’s through late-night study sessions, sharing resources, or simply offering words of encouragement, we constantly lift each other. I’ve seen classmates go out of their way to help someone struggling, whether academically or personally, and that spirit of teamwork motivates me every day.

The faculty at ҹɫ�� has also been a source of inspiration, encouraging us to support one another and lead with compassion. Their commitment to fostering a collaborative and uplifting environment has been instrumental in shaping my growth, both as a student and as a future physician.

These experiences have taught me that medicine is not a solo journey. The strength of the connections we build with patients, peers, and mentors is what allows us to overcome challenges and thrive.

How has the ҹɫ�� mission inspired you as a medical student?

Growing up in Nigeria, I saw firsthand the significant healthcare disparities affecting rural and underserved communities. Access to basic medical care was limited, and many families faced immense struggles. These experiences shaped my passion for addressing inequities in healthcare and serving vulnerable populations.

ҹɫ��’s mission deeply resonates with me, as it aligns with my commitment to improving access to care and advocating for underserved communities. The focus on preparing globally minded and community-oriented physicians has inspired me to view medicine as a tool for empowerment and change. ҹɫ��’s emphasis on holistic, patient-centered care has further encouraged me to consider the physical, emotional, and social aspects of healthcare.

Participating in outreach programs and working with underserved populations through ҹɫ�� has been particularly meaningful. These experiences remind me of the challenges I witnessed growing up and motivate me to become a physician dedicated to bridging gaps in care. ҹɫ��’s mission continues to inspire my journey, reinforcing my commitment to ensuring quality healthcare for all.

Who or what inspired you to study medicine?

My inspiration to study medicine comes from a combination of personal experiences and the profound impact of healthcare disparities I witnessed growing up in Nigeria. In my community, access to quality healthcare was often a privilege rather than a basic right. I saw friends and family members suffer from preventable illnesses simply because the resources and medical professionals they needed weren’t available. These experiences deeply affected me and sparked my desire to be part of the solution.

Additionally, my family has always emphasized the importance of education and service, instilling in me the values of empathy and perseverance. Their encouragement, coupled with my desire to address healthcare inequities, inspired me to pursue a career in medicine.

Today, as a medical student, I remain motivated by those early experiences and the people who shaped my journey. They remind me of the importance of compassion, resilience, and the incredible privilege of being able to care for others.

Why did you choose ҹɫ��?

I chose ҹɫ�� because of the unique opportunity to complete my master’s program through the medical school, which gave me a firsthand understanding of its culture and values. During that time, I interacted with faculty and students and was struck by the welcoming and supportive environment. This collaborative atmosphere made me feel at home and solidified my desire to join this community.

ҹɫ��’s mission resonates deeply with my values. Its commitment to preparing globally-minded, community-focused osteopathic physicians aligns with my goal of serving underserved and rural populations. I am especially drawn to the emphasis on addressing healthcare disparities and advancing research to improve human health.

What do you enjoy most about living in the area around your campus?

What I enjoy most about living in the area around my campus is the abundance of lakes, trails, and parks, which offer incredible opportunities for outdoor activities. Being here has introduced me to a completely different lifestyle compared to what I was used to in the Houston metro area. I've had the chance to learn about fishing and hunting activities I never would have experienced before, and they've given me a deeper appreciation for nature and the outdoors. Whether it's exploring scenic trails or enjoying the tranquility of the lakes, living here has been both refreshing and eye-opening.

What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time, I love playing soccer, a passion that has been with me since growing up playing on the streets of Nigeria. No matter how challenging life gets, soccer is my therapy. It allows me to disconnect from my worries and recharge my energy. I also enjoy cooking and experimenting with cuisines from various cultures, which gives me a sense of creativity and exploration. Additionally, I prioritize working out to stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle. On rare occasions, when I have extra spare time, I unwind by playing video games.

Are you interested in a particular practice or specialty once you graduate? What has inspired your interest in this specialty?

Yes, I am particularly interested in pursuing a career in surgery. What inspires me most about surgery is the opportunity to directly and immediately impact patients' lives. Witnessing how a surgeon’s skill can alleviate suffering and restore health has been incredibly motivating for me. My interest deepened during my clinical experiences, where I observed the precision, teamwork, and problem-solving required in the operating room. Additionally, surgery appeals to my love for hands-on work and my desire to constantly challenge myself to improve. I find it deeply rewarding to combine technical expertise with compassion to help patients in critical moments of their lives.

Chinaemerem Jeffrey Chukwudoro

Graduated: Class of 2026

Campus: Louisiana

Prior Schools: Texas Southern University, Bluefield University

Degrees: BS in Biology, MA in Biomedical Sciences

Hometown: Port-Harcourt, TX

Student

Louisiana

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Chinaemerem Jeffrey Chukwudoro

Chinaemerem Jeffrey Chukwudoro

ҹɫ��-Louisiana and ULM Kitty DeGree School of Nursing Students Participate in CERT Training: An Interdisciplinary Collaborative Event Enhancing Disaster Preparedness

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ҹɫ��-Louisiana Celebrates Research Excellence at 3rd Annual Via Research Recognition Day – DiGiuseppe and Kumar Earn Top Honors