|
Raj Nidal, Class of 2026: Father, Engineer, Future Physician
Born in Nepal and raised in the Wichita area, Rajendra Nidal, brought an aerospace engineering background to his path in medicine. He says he pursued becoming a DO because it offered “the perfect intersection of intellectual challenge and human connection.”
A meaningful moment for him came during an audition rotation in South Carolina, where he cared for a patient experiencing homelessness with frostbite. Nidal says, “Medicine is not only about diagnosis and treatment, but also creativity, advocacy, and compassion." He credits prior work with the ICT Street Team in Wichita with helping him connect with the patient, ultimately coordinating shelter placement upon discharge.
Nidal says that balancing medicine, family life, and a career transition has been demanding, yet meaningful.
“As a father of two with a career in engineering, transitioning into medicine was both challenging and deeply rewarding. This path would not have been possible without the unwavering support of my family, the dedicated faculty and staff at KansasCOM, and the encouragement of my classmates.”
| |
Historic First Match Day: KansasCOM Celebrates Residency Matches
Tomorrow, March 20, is Match Day, the milestone when medical students across the country learn where they will complete their residency training. At exactly 11:00 a.m. CST, students open their envelopes and discover the program they have matched into after years of study, clinical experience, and interviews. Follow #MATCHKANSASCOM to see where Nidal and others are headed. And watch our live event on YouTube.
| | | How to Support Your Student in the New Trimester | | OMS I are studying the cardiovascular system and will end the trimester with the respiratory system. Supporters can help by encouraging steady study habits, celebrating progress, and reminding them to rest as they move through two major body systems. | | OMS II are finishing their pediatrics block and will soon begin dedicated board preparation along with a clinical on ramp that guides them toward rotations. You can offer reassurance, provide space for focused study, and check in as they adjust to this important transition. | | OMS III are beginning their preparation period for COMLEX Level 2 while continuing their clinical training. You can ask about their rotation experiences, offer encouragement, and help them find balance during a demanding phase. | | OMS IV are preparing for Match results and looking ahead to graduation. Supporters can offer patience, excitement, and a listening ear as they prepare for the next stage of their medical careers. | | | | |
Dean Gish's Clear Vision for KansasCOM
KansasCOM Dean Eric Gish, DO, is leading with a people‑centered approach as he navigates the college through its final accreditation milestones and strengthens a unified campus culture. With his unique experience including helping to establish two osteopathic medical schools, Dr. Gish is shaping programs that prepare future physicians to provide great care for every patient. Read more about his vision and leadership on our blog.
| | Top Left: The SGA White Coat, Black Tie Gala brought students together for a joyful evening of community, celebration, and SGA’s always‑popular awards. Top Right: Our American College of Osteopathic Surgeons Medical Student Section hosted a hands‑on sterile technique session, bringing in partners from WSU Tech to help students practice scrubbing in, using sterile equipment, and navigating the operating room. Bottom Left: A female physician panel led the American Medical Women's Association's International Women’s Day event, inspiring and paving the way for future women in medicine. Bottom Right: Our students brought osteopathic pride to the Kansas State Capitol for "Donuts with DOs." KansasCOM was recognized on both the House and Senate floors, where legislators presented certificates honoring our inaugural class and growing impact on health care across the state. | | |
OMS I Student Senate Election Results
The OMS I class recently elected three new members to the Student Senate! Congratulations to Hannah Gibbs, who will serve as Senator for Student Organizations and Advocacy, Juliet Youssef for Student Life, and Alanna Justice for PR, Events, and Socials. We look forward to their leadership and the positive impact they will make in the months ahead!
| | |
Inside KansasCOM’s Approach to COMLEX Success
KansasCOM students enter their board exams with confidence thanks to a comprehensive preparation model built on structure, support, and wellness. Beginning in the second year, students follow a nine‑month plan that blends weekly review, question practice, and faculty mentoring. Senior Associate Dean Dr. Richard Winslow emphasizes that the most successful students approach board prep with consistency and intentional planning.
With trusted study resources, full‑length practice exams, personalized feedback, and strong support from faculty, tutors, and peers, students get guidance at every step. KansasCOM also prioritizes wellbeing with counseling, test‑anxiety support, and student‑led wellness initiatives to help students stay balanced during this demanding season. Want a closer look at how KansasCOM prepares future physicians for this milestone exam? Read more on our blog.
| | |
'Yoga in the Park' Coming Soon to Chester I. Lewis Park
Students are invited to join Wichita residents for "Yoga in the Park," a free community class held in front of campus in Chester I. Lewis Reflection Square Park. This midweek wellness break is an environment for all experience levels, and our students will also be volunteering at each session. Classes meet on Wednesdays from 12 to 1 pm, April 8 through May 27. Participants need a mat or towel and a water bottle. We are proud to offer this initiative through our partnership with Downtown Wichita and the Greater Wichita YMCA. Registration is free and required; click here to sign up.
| | |
Wichita Recognized Again as a Top Place to Live
According to The Economist, Wichita is the most affordable major U.S. city for people living on their own for the second year in a row. The city outpaced places like New York, Austin and Dallas and also earned recognition from Go Banking Rates, Livability and Forbes for affordability and overall quality of life. Mayor Lily Wu says the recognition reflects that Wichita is an easy place to live, work and raise a family. She also highlighted the city’s sense of community and its focus on continued economic growth in aviation, health care, and information technology. Read on MSN.
| | |
Celebrating Our Inaugural Commencement May 9
We are excited to mark a historic milestone with our first commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 9! Family and friends are invited to join us as we honor our first graduating class. Attendance is ticket required, with tickets distributed directly by each graduating student. More information, including details about photography and flowers for the ceremony, is available on our commencement webpage.
|
| |
Spread the Word of Pulse
Know someone who should receive these updates? Please share this newsletter with your family and friends and ask them to SIGN UP.
| | |
Reach Out
For other questions including about the newsletter, reach our team at info@kansashsc.org.
| | | The content and dates mentioned in this newsletter are subject to change. We strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, but unforeseen circumstances may occur. | | | | |
