Leading with purpose: How ATSU-KCOM is preparing one student for a career in compassionate, patient-centered medicine

Leading with purpose: How ATSU-KCOM is preparing one student for a career in compassionate, patient-centered medicine

Taylor Kurtz, OMS II, is a student in A.T. Still University's Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM), class of 2028. A native of Plymouth, Wisconsin, she earned her bachelor of science in biochemistry from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee before coming to ATSU.

Kurtz was drawn to the University by its storied history as the first osteopathic medical school and the firsthand recommendation of a physician mentor who trained there. A dedicated leader and advocate, she serves as president of both the L. Linton Budd OBGYN Society and Medical Students for Choice, as national liaison for the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons Medical Student Section (ACOS-MSS), and as a student ambassador.

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

"I chose ATSU-KCOM because of the school's strong reputation and its history as the first osteopathic medical school. A physician I worked with who trained here spoke very highly of both the education and the sense of community at ATSU. Hearing about his positive experience made it clear to me that ATSU would be a supportive place to learn and grow as a future physician, which made my decision to attend an easy one."

What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?

"I enjoy the strong sense of community that comes with being an ATSU student. The friends I have made here have had such a positive impact on my overall happiness and have made medical school a much more supportive and enjoyable experience. Outside of studying, I love attending spin classes at the Thompson Campus Center as well as kayaking. I also enjoyed participating in intramural softball this past fall. While I hadn't played since I was 8, it was a fun way to meet new people and have fun."

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

"My primary professional goal is to become a compassionate and skilled physician who takes the time to truly listen to patients and make them feel heard. I believe that strong patient-physician relationships are essential to providing good care, and I hope to create an environment where patients feel comfortable, respected, and involved in their healthcare decisions.

"ATSU-KCOM is helping prepare me for this career by providing a strong foundation in both medical knowledge and the osteopathic philosophy of patient-centered care. The supportive learning environment, hands-on opportunities, and emphasis on treating the whole patient are helping me develop the skills I need to become not only a competent physician, but also one who prioritizes empathy and communication in every patient interaction."

Why did you choose to get involved in student organizations?

"I joined these organizations because they align closely with both my professional interests and my desire to be involved in the medical student community. As president of the L. Linton Budd OBGYN Society and Medical Students for Choice, I enjoy creating opportunities for students to connect, learn, and explore topics related to reproductive health and obstetrics and gynecology. Through the OBGYN club, we host activities such as HPS deliveries, IUD workshops, and documentary nights. These events allow members to practice hands-on skills while also learning about important topics in reproductive health and patient care in a collaborative environment.

"Serving as the National Liaison for ACOS-MSS has also allowed me to represent ATSU at a national level. I had the opportunity to travel to Salt Lake City for the ACOS conference, where I connected with other medical students interested in surgery and participated in surgical skills workshops. Being involved in these organizations has been incredibly rewarding because it allows me to meet new people, develop leadership skills, and further explore the areas of medicine I am most passionate about."

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 help prospective students get an honest perspective on what it is like to attend ATSU-KCOM. Choosing a medical school is a big decision, and I remember how helpful it was to hear directly from current students during my own application process. Serving as an ambassador allows me to share my experiences, answer questions, and help applicants feel more comfortable as they learn about the school."

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

"I love cooking and am working on creating a vegetarian and plant-based cookbook. My husband and I adopted a dog my first semester here, and we spend time going to the local dog parks and taking her on walks around the lake."