Letter from the SOIMA Vice President

Hello everyone!!

I am so excited to welcome you to the new year with ACOI and to share this next issue of our newsletter! Our community is full of drive, curiosity, and heart, and I’m excited for everything we’ll accomplish together!

Wherever you are on your path—preclinical, clinical, or somewhere in between—know that you belong here, and we’re rooting for you!

A little advice as you dive into another year of school:

• Protect your well-being. Sleep, movement, and real meals are study tools—treat them that way!
• Learn the “why.” Understanding mechanisms turns memorization into mastery and elevates patient care.
• Carry the osteopathic spirit with you: listen deeply, treat the whole person, and lead with compassion.  
• Find your people. Seek mentors, ask questions, and learn across teams—medicine is a team sport.
• Lead with kindness. See the person behind the problem list; let empathy guide every encounter.

ACOI is here to back you every step of the way with support, education, mentorship, leadership opportunities, and a national network that wants to see you thrive. This monthly newsletter will bring you exciting updates, resources, student highlights, and opportunities to get involved.  

Wishing you clarity in the classroom, confidence in the clinics, and courage in the moments that matter. You’ve got this—and we’ve got you!

With excitement and support,

Maya Berger, OMS-III
Vice President, National Student Osteopathic Internal Medical Association