PNWU Students Reflect on Advocacy, Empathy, and the Future of Medicine at National Conference
Three student leaders from Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences recently joined a national community of future osteopathic physicians in Arlington, Texas, at the AACOM and Council of Osteopathic Student Government Presidents (COSGP) Spring Conference.
For PNWU Student Doctors Scott Brown (COM Class of ‘26), Sabrina Vuong (COM Class of ‘28), and Kirsten Huhl (COM Class of ‘28), the three-day event was both a leadership summit and a meaningful reminder of the humanity that defines medicine.
The Power of Presence and Compassion
For Student Dr. Vuong, one of the most powerful moments came during a keynote from Dr. Barry Kerzin, physician to the Dalai Lama and a practicing Buddhist monk.
“To care for others, we must cultivate our own emotional resilience.”
“Dr. Kerzin encouraged us to continue our path with compassion and selflessness,” said Student Dr. Vuong. “His message reminded us that true healing begins with empathy and a well-balanced heart. To care for others, we must cultivate our own emotional resilience.”
His words offered a rare and timely reflection for student doctors whose journeys are often demanding and fast-paced: to remain present, intentional, and kind to themselves in the process of becoming healers.
A Room of Empathy and Purpose
Student Dr. Huhl was moved by a more spontaneous moment of connection — when students from across the nation shared the challenges their peers are facing, including one school’s response to a classmate recently diagnosed with terminal cancer.
“It was an open and emotionally charged space,” she recalled. “The room shifted as everyone offered support and brainstormed solutions together. It reminded us that what truly matters is how we show up for each other as humans.”
Student Dr. Huhl credited PNWU’s culture of service and engagement with preparing her to take part in such authentic dialogue:
“PNWU has consistently emphasized student involvement and collaboration.”
“PNWU has consistently emphasized student involvement and collaboration. That foundation helped me step confidently into a space where student voices matter.”
Advocacy in Action
As the former COM Executive President and National Treasurer for COSGP, Student Dr. Scott Brown has spent the past year advancing national advocacy efforts focused on medical student financial literacy — an issue he sees as essential to the long-term wellness of future physicians.
“We brought in expert speakers, hosted breakout sessions, and helped pass a resolution adopted by the AOA last summer,” he said. “These experiences have reinforced my commitment to education, advocacy, and empowering my peers.”
Reflecting on his time at PNWU, Student Dr. Brown highlighted the formative impact of mentors and peers alike.
“From my start in the MAMS program, I’ve been challenged and supported to grow into the best version of myself.”
“From my start in the MAMS program, I’ve been challenged and supported to grow into the best version of myself. Faculty like Dr. Brady, Dr. Baldwin, and Dr. Hudon have modeled what it means to be both an excellent provider and a powerful advocate.”
A Shared Vision for the Future
Together, Student Drs. Vuong, Huhl, and Brown represent the future of osteopathic leaders — committed not just to clinical excellence, but to compassionate care, emotional awareness, and systemic change.
“Being a physician means more than treating illness,” Student Dr. Brown said. “It means advocating for the structures that support health in all its forms.”