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For this edition’s osteopathic medical student spotlight, I wanted to feature someone whose leadership, humility and drive, whom I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand. Joshua Connor, OMS IV, and I both attend the University of the University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine (UIWSOM), and I’ve been inspired by the way he continually shows up for others with intention, warmth and integrity.
Whether he’s leading nationally as the president of the Student Osteopathic Medical Association (SOMA), mentoring students on our own campus or advocating for diversity and access in healthcare, Joshua leads with purpose and heart. He’s the kind of person who makes everyone around him feel like they belong and I’m proud to call him a classmate and a colleague. I’ve asked him to tell us a little bit about himself:
Joshua: “My name is Joshua Connor, OMS IV, and I currently attend UIWSOM. I have strong interests in dermatology, autoimmunity and pharmacology. I also really enjoy teaching, outreach and advocacy, which has influenced my passions in celebrating diversity, empowering peers and patients, and addressing barriers that hinder access to medical care. Presently, I serve as the national president SOMA, which has been one of the most rewarding leadership roles I have ever had, especially as a first-generation medical student.”
“Outside of medicine, I am a Midwestern native who can appreciate an endlessly flat horizon with a vast, starry-night sky. I have a huge family with one sister and five brothers, one of which is my identical twin (he is a veterinarian). Needless to say, there was never a dull moment in childhood, and my journey thus far has been a fun-filled rollercoaster!”
Make sure to check out the headlining article, where Josh shares some of his reflections on leadership and what it means to guide others in medicine.