Kristina Van Nuys is a fourth year medical student, studying at Western University of Health Sciences, Comp-Northwest. She hails from Oregon and is this year’s recipient of the Willis Women’s Scholarship Award.
Kristina told us, “I hope to always get to know my patients in such a way that I can learn what makes their spirits sing. I want to demonstrate to my patients that what is important to them is equally important to me, as my patients are what drives my passion and motivation to work hard”.
Charles Ross, DO and Assistant Professor at Comp-Northwest has this to say about Kristina, “Kristina is the real deal. She demonstrates compassion, a strong work ethic, professionalism, knowledge, and confidence. She has a warm, welcoming smile and listens well. She is upbeat and enthusiastic. She is definitely one of the students I would choose as my personal physician once she is licensed”.
Diane Lamb, a retired educator from Lebanon High School says that “Kristina has expressed to me on numerous occasions how important it is for her to promote health in Oregon where she intends to establish her career. If the criteria for this scholarship is such things as strong leadership skills, dedication to community and genuine compassion, Kristina is definitely the cream of the crop”.
Robyn Dreibelbis, DO and Vice Chair and Assistant Professor in the Department of Family Medicine at Comp-Northwest says that “Kristina is a student with great passion for doing the right thing, not because others are watching, but because it is the right thing to do. I have no doubt that Kristina will continue to live and act in a way that will make this college, this university, our profession, and me proud for many years to come”.
Kristina sums up her heart for her community by saying this, “I have a special place in my heart for our community members with disabilities, as my sister is part of this population. I plan to continue work with and advocate for them in whatever capacity that is needed”.
The foundation agrees and looks forward to seeing you do just that, Kristina. Job well done.