Master of Science in Medical Sciences (MSMS)

Ryan Cassidy Bohannan, BS

What would you tell a prospective student about WesternU?

This program has challenged me in ways I never could have imagined and it will do the same for you! I will forever be grateful to the MSMS program for challenging me to grow in ways I never could have imagined. The MSMS program’s academic rigor has helped prepare me to succeed in professional school, the professional development has helped develop the confidence I need to thrive in a professional setting, but above all, the the emphasis of diversity in healthcare has helped provide the awareness I need to become the culturally competent provider I aspire to be.

Michelle Sendejas, BS

Why did you choose your WesternU program?

“Fit” is something I never understood until I experienced it firsthand. I will never forget the first preview day I attended for WesternU. Once I stepped on the campus, I received nothing but support and motivation from all students and staff. I immediately felt WesternU was a place I can call home, show my authentic self, express my passions, represents diversity, and aims to provide quality care to the underserved communities where I grew up.

Gerald Thrush, PhD

Why WesternU?

When given the opportunity to accept a full-time position at WesternU, I jumped at the chance! I have not regretted that decision and enjoy coming to work everyday. Besides being involved in education to medical students as well as students in the colleges of Dentistry, Podiatric Medicine, and Optometry, I have recently been involved in the development of the MSMS program in the Graduate College of Biomedical Sciences.

WesternU Distinctive?

The development of the MSMS program is the result of intense discussions amongst faculty and staff from a variety of colleges here at WesternU. The ultimate goal of the MSMS program is to prepare graduates to be able to meet the academic demands of the professional school of their choice. What has been developed in the MSMS program is a series of courses that will strengthen the scientific foundation of the student as well as develop professionalism that is so important to the members of the health care team. In addition, students who are successful in the MSMS program will be able to use the strength of the program to show that they are strong candidates for professional school admission.

Vishwanath Venketaraman, PhD

Tell us about an experience where you observed a student or fellow faculty member exemplify the humanistic philosophy of our University.

Students and faculty members at large are very caring and supportive and are always willing to assist each other.

Have you taken advantage of the research opportunities offered at WesternU? Please describe your research and it’s importance.

My laboratory does active research on tuberculosis and HIV. I give opportunities to the students enrolled in the MSBS, MSMS, DO and DMD programs to participate in the ongoing and new research projects in my laboratory. Please see the link below for my research publications.

Stuart Sumida, PhD

Tell us about an experience where you observed a student or fellow faculty member exemplify the humanistic philosophy of our University.

I have been hugely impressed watching students progress from programs like the MSMS program, into professional schools, and on to being practicing professionals. What has impressed me deeply is the sense of responsibility each class of student feels to give back to WesternU, and those students following them. The “selfish professional student” stereotype doesn’t exist at WesternU, as they are constantly facilitating one another.

Eftikhar Akam, MSMS Class of 2015

Why did you choose WesternU?

When I was applying to graduate programs, I called the admissions offices of all of the schools I was interested in. Many of them were nice and gave me the information that I needed. However, when I called WesternU, I spoke to the MSMS program director for over half an hour. I told her my story and she listened, and she encouraged me to apply and thought that I would be a good fit for the program. For the first time I felt like someone genuinely cared about me and my goals, and looked out for my best interests. WesternU felt like home away from home, and that’s why I chose to attend.

Maureen Nwaokoro, MSMS Class of 2015

How have you seen the University’s humanistic philosophy lived out by members of the WesternU family?

Classmates share resources. you do not get the competitive spirit from others. Everyone is working to make themselves better at excelling but will lend a helping hand to those that need it. Also the upperclassmen are always open to provide advise as to how professors are, resources to use and not use and it is an overall good support.

How did your involvement in co-curricular activities (e.g. clubs or student government) influence your personal life?

I have had the opportunity to be mentored by so many great people and I am still continuously seeking great role models. I am truly indebted to them. I am involved in SNMA (Student National Medical Association) and been a part of this club has given me the inner satisfaction to give back to my community and to lift as I climb. So as I have been mentored I am also mentoring others to continue the cycle of giving back.

Amelia Servin, DO Class of 2016, MSMS Class of 2011

How have you seen the university’s humanistic philosophy lived out by members of the WesternU family?

Beyond the copious amount of volunteer opportunities, I see the most humanism in every day interactions with patients, colleagues, other healthcare workers, and even others on campus.

What would you tell a prospective student about WesternU?

It is a wonderful institution with amazingly smart, helpful, and caring people.

Rachelle Torres, DO Class of 2015, MSMS Class of 2011

What would you tell a prospective student?

It is worth it! I think the faculty and staff truly live up to what the university is trying to accomplish in terms of status, research, medical technologies, and humanism. I’ve never been on a campus that has been as welcoming as WesternU, or that has been so willing to help with anything from academic tutoring to lunchtime yoga.

Brian Diep, MS BS | DO Class of 2022, MSMS Class of 2018

Why did you choose your WesternU program?

WesternU was the only school in California that gave me a chance at becoming a physician and knowing what I know now, I’d pick it again. I feel so incredibly supported and empowered and I know I’m extremely fortunate. As a member on the Board of Trustees of the Student Osteopathic Medical Association, I acknowledge that WesternU goes above and beyond in supporting students and their initiatives. The faculty, admin, and staff all do a great job promoting the feeling of family and everyday that I’m here, I feel like I am a part of something greater than myself.