Students Place in American Muslim Medical Student Association Poster Contest, Host Mini Medical School, Overcome Cancer While in Medical School and More

VCOM-Louisiana Students Place in Top Ten at AMMSA Conference

Photo: (From left to right) Murtaza Khambati, Kareem Abdelhamid, Wasifuddin Syed and Hassan Khanani, all members of the VCOM-Louisiana Class of 2026, placed in the top ten best posters at the AMMSA Conference.

Four students from the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine Louisiana Campus (VCOM-Louisiana) recently had the honor of participating in the prestigious American Muslim Medical Student Association (AMMSA) conference held in New York City. During the event, these students had the opportunity to showcase their research poster, standing shoulder to shoulder with peers from medical schools nationwide. Amongst stiff competition, Wasifuddin Syed, Hassan Khanani, Kareem Abdelhamid and Murtaza Khambhati distinguished themselves by earning a coveted spot among the top ten best posters at the conference. This achievement not only reflects their dedication to advancing medical knowledge but also underscores the caliber of education and research fostered at VCOM-Louisiana. Congratulations to these exceptional students for their well-deserved recognition and for representing their institution with distinction on a national platform. Visit Facebook to see photos from the conference.

CCOM Holds Annual Mini Medical School for Aspiring Healthcare Students

Photo: Joseph Gewarges (CCOM '27) worked with Prad Jadhav, a sophomore at Neuqua Valley High School, on “A 19-Year-Old Man with shock, multiple organ failure and rash.”

Midwestern University’s Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine (CCOM) recently played host to an enriching educational initiative, the 2023 Mini Medical School, spanning over five weeks. This event welcomed local high school students alongside select undergraduate students from Saint Xavier University in Chicago.

Under the guidance of dedicated medical students, participants embarked on a comprehensive exploration of medical careers, delving into topics such as organ systems, anatomy, physiology and first aid. The program not only provided invaluable mentorship opportunities but also served as a gateway for aspiring healthcare professionals to gain firsthand insights into the dynamic world of medicine. Through interactive sessions and hands-on learning experiences, the Mini Medical School fostered a nurturing environment where curiosity flourished and aspirations took flight, inspiring the next generation of healthcare leaders. Read more about this rewarding experience.

Medical Student Overcomes Cancer with Resilience and Support

Timothy Kanne, a medical student at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine Auburn, confronted cancer with unwavering determination. Enduring emergency surgery and a demanding recovery, his journey epitomizes the resilience found in the embrace of love and support from family and friends. Now, with no sign of cancer, Timothy's story stands as a beacon of hope, showcasing the indomitable spirit that propels him forward. Gain further insight into Timothy's inspiring journey. 

PCOM and The Wistar Institute Forge Academic Collaboration to Advance Biomedical Sciences Education

Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) and The Wistar Institute have joined forces in an academic collaboration aimed at enriching students' access to biomedical sciences education. This partnership will offer degree programs, courses and various educational opportunities to students at both institutions. PCOM's School of Health Sciences Dean Gregory McDonald, DO, expressed excitement about the collaboration, highlighting the opportunity to offer courses like "Life Science Innovation" to biomedical sciences students starting next year. The collaboration aligns with The Wistar Institute's goal of providing authentic training opportunities to students, as emphasized by Dean of Biomedical Studies Kristy Shuda McGuire, PhD.

The collaboration integrates PCOM's holistic health education approach with The Wistar Institute's expertise in biomedical research, particularly in cancer, immunology and infectious diseases. Students will benefit from access to each other's curriculum and courses in areas such as Cancer Biology and Vaccines and Immune Therapies. The partnership also includes grant funding for new courses and student travel to Wistar's annual "Shark Tank" event. Overall, the collaboration aims to create an environment where students can thrive in biomedical research and contribute to the advancement of life sciences, with the potential to serve as a model for future collaborative educational endeavors. Read more about this growing partnership.