NOMINATE A STUDENT TODAY

The ACOI Student of the Month Recognition Program is an opportunity to recognize osteopathic medical students who are outstanding members of their medical schools and their communities.  ACOI wants to recognize these students and share their achievements with the ACOI community.  Students who are recognized for this award will have demonstrated their commitment to their communities through community service, leadership, achievements in research, educational development, and personal achievement, among other things. 

December 2024

Aila Cordero, OMS-II (NSU-KPCOM)

Student Doctor Cordero was nominated for her leadership skills and community involvement. Aila is President of the Hispanic Osteopathic Medical Student Association (HOMSA) and uses her role in HOMSA to spread awareness of osteopathic medicine throughout the South Florida community, especially amongst the Cuban community. She has worked tirelessly to educate classmates about Hispanic culture, tutor in medical Spanish, and help bridge the gap between the medical community and largely underserved communities in the area. She also helps classmates' network with Hispanic leaders in osteopathic medicine by inviting a variety of physicians to come speak with our student body.

In addition to her role in HOMSA, Aila is the Chapter Advocacy Officer for the American Medical Student Association and an active member of the Internal Medicine club SOIMA.

Aila is described as kind, empathetic, and an amazing leader on the campus. Read more.

November 2024

Shelby Cornelius, OMS-IV (OUHCOM-Dublin)

Shelby is an extraordinarily talented individual with a high intellect and a genuine curiosity that fuels her drive to learn. During her third-year internal medicine inpatient rotation, Shelby was operating at the level of a fourth-year medical student. She gave polished and thorough presentations that included synthesis of complex patients and prioritized differential diagnoses. She was quietly proactive, going above and beyond the call of duty when it came to patient care, leveraging every resource at her fingertips for patient advocacy. In one instance, Shelby led team rounds on a particularly challenging case of patient who was a victim of intimate partner violence.  This came to light as the perpetrator was in the room, and with sophisticated poise, Shelby ensured that the patient was kept safe and out of harm’s way.

During her fourth-year internal medicine audition, she again functioned beyond her level of training.  She took on management plans, including specific dosing of insulin, de-escalation of antibiotics, and creating contingency plans.  

Shelby is the type of student every medical educator hopes to have. Shelby embodies the principals of osteopathy caring for the whole patient and utilizing the trust patients have placed in her to deliver the best care possible to her patients. Read more.

 October 2024

Alyssa Zakala, OMS IV (ACOM)

Student Doctor Zakala was nominated for her overall dedication to academics, clinical responsibilities, and contributions to the community. She is described as an incredibly hard worker and a brillant medical student. One of her nominators said that she will "continue to make significant contributions to the field of osteopathic medicine and to the lives of her patients." Alyssa inspires others to be the best version of themselves, understands the importance of collaboration in medicine, and is always willing to lend a helping hand to her classmates.

What truly sets Alyssa apart though is her compassion for her patients. She understands that medicine is not just about diagnosing and treating illnesses, but also about caring for the whole person. Alyssa takes the time to listen to her patients, understand their concerns, and address their needs in a holistic and empathetic manner. Her patients consistently express gratitude for the kindness and respect she shows them, and it is clear that Alyssa views each patient as an individual deserving of personalized care. Her commitment to patient-centered care is a testament to her character and the type of physician she will become. Read more.

September 2024

Anja Cannon, OMS-III (OUHCOM)

Student Doctor Cannon was nominated for her exceptional dedication, passion, and contributions to her academic community. Her commitment to academic excellence is unwavering, consistently demonstrating a deep understanding of osteopathic principles and their application in clinical practice.

Beyond her academic achievements, Anja is known for her compassionate and empathetic nature. She consistently goes above and beyond to support her peers, offering guidance, encouragement, and assistance whenever needed. Her willingness to collaborate and share knowledge fosters a supportive learning environment that benefits everyone, especially our first-year students who she tutors as an academic peer support liaison. Read more.

August 2024

Akshat Dayal, OMS II (TCOM)

Student Doctor Dayal always presents himself with a smile and has established himself as a warm, welcoming figure amongst the students at Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine. In addition to being a great friend, he manages to balance the strenuous aspects of medical school in a manner that encourages all his friends to succeed together. Read more.

July 2024

Gaspareantonio Fabio Greco, OMS II (WVSOM)

Student Doctor Greco embodies the values upheld by the ACOI community. He was nominated because of his commitment to serving others, inspiring peers, and pursuing excellence in academic and professional endeavors. His involvement in community service, particularly his efforts at a local retirement home, highlights a compassionate and empathetic nature. Fabio volunteers at events like the bingo night, bringing joy to the elderly residents and fostering a sense of connection and companionship within the community. Read more.