Touro Scholars Offer Thanks for Latest Awards

They’re also asking the alumni community to consider doing the same as the next round of fundraising(opens in a new tab) begins in January.

Natalie Brown, who plans to become a Physician Assistant and expects to complete the Joint MSPAS/MPH program in 2026, Student Doctor Karen Vo, who is on track to graduate in May with her doctorate from the College of Osteopathic Medicine, and Student Doctor Disha Goel, a second year COM student, each received $500 scholarships during the fall semester.

Scholarships Help to Break Down Barriers

Each noted how difficult it can be to pay for an advanced education and the relief that each scholarship can bring.

“Scholarship money is incredibly significant to medical students pursuing postgraduate degrees, as it alleviates the substantial financial burden associated with medical education,” Vo said. “These funds enable students to focus on their studies, clinical rotations, and research without the constant stress of financial strain. Additionally, scholarships can reduce the need for excessive student loans, which often lead to long-term debt.”

Brown and Goel each noted the importance of having access to scholarships at the campus level.

“I have applied to a lot of scholarships hoping to get some help with my student loans – and while there are a lot of scholarships out in the world, there are a lot more applicants in need of financial assistance,” Brown said. “Having scholarships available through our school makes it much more attainable, and I am so grateful that Touro alumni are giving back to current Touro students.”

Gratitude … With an Eye Toward What’s Next

All three offered thanks to the alumni who donated to the latest round of scholarship awards.

“Receiving this scholarship(opens in a new tab) is especially meaningful as it came from alumni who were once in my position – studying and working hard to succeed in graduate school,” Brown said. “It means a lot that you are giving back to students at Touro, and I truly appreciate your generosity.”

“Your generosity has a profound impact on students like me, enabling us to pursue our dreams and focus on our education without being overwhelmed by financial burdens,” Vo said. “Your support not only eases our journey but also inspires us to give back to the community in the future.”

"I think one of the things that was really unique about this scholarship was seeing how alumni came together and wanted to contribute back to us as current medical students," Goel said. "That really made me feel like I was part of a bigger community and just continued to reinforce the amazing Touro community.”

Brown encouraged the alumni community to support the latest fund drive.

“If you want to give back to the Touro community, this is a great opportunity to pay it forward,” she said.