First-generation medical student finds her people at ATSU’s School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona

First-generation medical student finds her people at ATSU's School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona

Alexandra Nicklow is a student in A.T. Still University's School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona (ATSU-SOMA), set to graduate in 2029. An Orono, Minnesota native, she earned her bachelor of science in biology from the University of Minnesota in 2023 and spent three years working in a hospital before starting medical school. Nicklow is involved in several student organizations at ATSU, including as a general board member of the Medical Skills Club and a general member of the ATSU Harm Reduction Club and ATSU CMDA Christian Healthcare Fellowship, in addition to serving as a student ambassador.

Why did you choose ATSU-SOMA?

"I chose ATSU because of the community and sense of support I felt during my interview. After speaking with faculty and current students, I knew this was a place I wanted to be. I could tell that the students were very happy and that the faculty was truly supportive and wanted to see the success of all students. I was also very excited about the opportunities to gain skills like ultrasound and clinical reasoning through the case based inquiry curriculum style during the first two years of the program. I knew this early exposure would prepare me well and set me up for success during my third- and fourth-year rotations."

What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?

"One thing I love about being a student at ATSU is the emphasis on balance and having fun outside of school. While academics is our main priority, there is never a shortage of opportunities to have fun. From club events during lunch hour or after class, intramural sports, or fairs on the front lawn, there is always something to look forward to.

"The fun outside of class has made my experience at ATSU very special, but my favorite part about being a student here has to be my classmates. I am so grateful for the people in my cohort and I know that not everyone is as lucky with their experience in medical school. I can truly say that I have never had a dull day as a student at ATSU-SOMA. From coffee runs between classes to an impromptu group study session in the library, I truly feel like I have a family here supporting me."

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

"I am interested in doing either a pediatrics residency with a fellowship in pediatric hospitalist medicine or a residency in internal medicine-pediatrics. I worked in a hospital for three years prior to starting medical school, and love the fast-paced and collaborative environment. ATSU is helping prepare me for this by its emphasis on group work and the process of a patient workup from the first week of classes. Being a hospitalist or internist will require me to collaborate with all disciplines of the healthcare team in order to provide the highest care for my patients, so I appreciate the interdisciplinary approach to patient care that ATSU provides by allowing us to learn from other programs on campus such as occupational therapy and dentistry."

Why did you choose to join different student organizations? You are a general board member with the Medical Skills Club, and general member of the ATSU Harm Reduction Club and ATSU CMDA Christian Healthcare Fellowship.

"I joined the Harm Reduction Club because of its emphasis on community health, providing healthcare to people who may not have access to it, and reducing the stigma around drug use in healthcare. I appreciate that this club is very active in both the community and on campus, highlights topics like legislature and policy, and provides opportunities for clinical experience through both medical and osteopathic clinics."

Why did you become a student ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?

"I wanted to become an ambassador for this program because I wanted to serve as a mentor and resource for pre-med students. I am the first in my family to attend medical school, so the process was very new and overwhelming as I was navigating it. I relied on many mentors and current students to answer questions, give me advice, and encourage me along the way. Joining the student ambassador program has been a very rewarding way for me to do this for other students. I have enjoyed getting to know applicants during their interview sessions or during general Q&A sessions, and helping to ease their stress during this exciting but overwhelming period of life."

What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?

"I love that there are so many things to do in the Mesa/Phoenix area! I really enjoy being outdoors and going on walks and hikes, trying out new restaurants and cafes, and thrift shopping! I also love cooking and had a group of classmates over for a Greek Easter dinner this past semester!"