Hands-on healing: How ATSU-KCOM is preparing students for careers in osteopathic medicine and community service

Hands-on healing: How ATSU-KCOM is preparing students for careers in osteopathic medicine and community service

Shannon Buehre, OMS II, is a student in A.T. Still University's Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM) class of 2028. A native of Lee's Summit, Missouri, she graduated magna cum laude from Missouri Western State University in 2023 with a bachelor of science in biology and minors in chemistry and wellness.

Buehre was drawn to ATSU-KCOM by its emphasis on hands-on clinical training, early exposure to tools like ultrasound and human patient simulation, and its strong culture of student support and wellness. She is deeply involved in campus life, serving as chapter president of the Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons (MAOPS), secretary of the Student Osteopathic Medical Association, treasurer of Still Kids, a member of the Still Caring Health Connections finance committee and Global Health Club, a Mental Health Ambassador, and an HPS Lab Coordinator for the student ambassador program.

Why did you choose the DO program at ATSU-KCOM?

"I chose ATSU-KCOM because it felt like a place that truly focuses on preparing students to become physicians. I was drawn to the school's emphasis on hands-on learning and developing clinical skills early on in the curriculum. One aspect I've especially appreciated is the Human Patient Simulation lab, where we can apply what we learn in the classroom to realistic clinical scenarios. I also value the ultrasound curriculum, which gives students early exposure to tools that are increasingly important in modern clinical practice.

"I was also drawn to the collaborative and supportive environment among students and faculty. Throughout my time here, I've had opportunities to grow as a leader, get involved in advocacy and service organizations, and work alongside classmates who are passionate about improving patient care. Another aspect that stands out to me is ATSU's strong commitment to student wellness. As a Mental Health Ambassador, I've enjoyed helping promote resources that support student well-being, and programs like campus exercise classes and the student dog park make it easier to maintain balance during medical school."

What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?

"I really enjoy the collaborative and supportive environment at ATSU. From Day 1, students and faculty have been welcoming, encouraging, and eager to help one another succeed. One memorable example was last year on my birthday when Ramey, our spin class instructor, organized a birthday spin class for me, which made me feel truly celebrated and supported.

"I also love the lighthearted side of student life. My dog won the Halloween costume contest in October, which was a fun reminder of how the community connects and celebrates outside the classroom. Beyond moments like these, I enjoy participating in student organizations, wellness activities, and service opportunities. Workout classes, the HPS lab, advocacy events, and mission trips have all made my experience at ATSU enriching and rewarding, while fostering lasting connections with peers who share my passion for medicine and service."

What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU-KCOM helping prepare you for your career?

"I hope to become a compassionate and skilled physician who provides excellent patient care and advocates for my patients and community. While I'm still exploring which specialty I'll pursue, I know I want to practice medicine in a way that combines clinical expertise with service, leadership, and mentorship.

"ATSU is helping prepare me by emphasizing hands-on learning, osteopathic principles, and whole-person care. Experiences like the HPS lab, the ultrasound curriculum, and involvement in student organizations such as MAOPS and Global Health Club have strengthened my clinical skills, leadership abilities, and understanding of advocacy and community service. The supportive environment at ATSU encourages me to grow into a well-rounded physician ready to meet the challenges of modern healthcare."

Why did you choose to get involved in student organizations?

"I joined these organizations to become more involved in the osteopathic community and to contribute to initiatives that support both medical students and the patients we serve.

"Through MAOPS, I have had the opportunity to engage with osteopathic advocacy, leadership, and professional development. Most recently, I helped lead a group of students to Jefferson City for Physician Advocacy Day, where we met with Missouri legislators and discussed issues impacting physicians and patient care. I have also worked with MAOPS' Young Physician Network, where I hosted a podcast episode and created a tutorial on how to listen to heart sounds. I am also a Wetzel Scholar Candidate and was inducted at the MAOPS Annual Convention in April 2026, a program focused on developing future physician leaders in advocacy and organized medicine.

"I also value being involved in organizations focused on service and outreach. Through Still Kids, I help support initiatives that provide resources for children in the community, including volunteering as a tutor at the local high school. With Still Caring Health Connections, we work to support the organization's mission of providing healthcare services to underserved populations in the area.

"Through Global Health Club, I had the opportunity to travel to Vietnam on a medical mission trip, where I participated in clinical outreach and conducted research. Experiences like this have reinforced my interest in service and global health while working alongside classmates and physicians in resource-limited settings."

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 helping prospective students learn about ATSU-KCOM and see what makes it such a special place to train as a physician. As an HPS lab coordinator, I lead demonstrations on interview days, giving students a hands-on look at our simulation labs and the kind of practical skills they'll develop here. I also enjoy answering questions about life at ATSU and sharing my personal experiences, especially when people ask, 'Why did you choose ATSU?'

"What I enjoy most about this role is connecting with future students and helping them picture themselves here. It's really rewarding to show them both the academic opportunities and the supportive, collaborative community that makes ATSU so special."

What are some of your interests and hobbies outside of ATSU?

"Outside of ATSU, I enjoy staying active, being creative, and spending time with my dog. I regularly attend spin class at the Thompson Campus Center and take my dog to the student dog park or Thousand Hills State Park, which helps me balance the demands of medical school. Playing lacrosse was also a big part of my life before medical school, and I still love sports. I enjoy traveling and exploring new places whenever I have the chance, and in my downtime, embroidery and crochet help me relax and stay creative."