OCOM Students Inspire Future Physicians Through Student-Led “NextGenDO” Program

Winter Garden, FL – The Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine (OCOM) proudly hosted its first NextGenDO program, a dynamic, hands-on immersion experience created and led entirely by OCOM’s medical students. The event welcomed 26 aspiring future doctors to campus for a full day of engaging activities designed to spark interest in osteopathic medicine and showcase what it means to be a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO).

From the moment students arrived, they were immersed in the world of modern medical education. The day began in OCOM’s Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) lab, where participants received interactive instruction on the osteopathic approach to diagnosis and treatment. They then rotated through a series of educational environments, including the anatomy lab, a problem-based Clinical-Based Learning (CBL) session, and a high-fidelity simulation experience that proved to be the highlight of the day.

“Watching these students’ eyes light up in the simulation room and during our case learning sessions reminded us why outreach and mentorship are so important,” said Class President, Student Doctor Kenny Quezada. “This experience reaffirmed our own passion for medicine while helping shape the next generation of DOs.”

Faculty members supported the program by lending their time and expertise in guiding NextGenDO students through CBL cases and simulation exercises, while OCOM’s simulation team helped create an unforgettable and realistic clinical environment. The event concluded in the auditorium, where students shared heartfelt reflections on how inspired and motivated they now feel to pursue careers in medicine, specifically as osteopathic physicians.

A special thank you goes out to the 14 dedicated OCOM student volunteers who organized, facilitated, and guided the entire day. Their leadership and passion were essential in delivering such an impactful experience.

“NextGenDO exemplifies the heart of OCOM; students who are not only focused on their own growth, but who are committed to mentoring others and giving back to the future of the profession,” said Dr. Robert T. Hasty, Chief Academic Officer and Dean of OCOM. “This initiative perfectly aligns with our mission to shape compassionate, forward-thinking physicians who will serve their communities with purpose.”

OCOM remains committed to fostering early exposure to osteopathic medicine and will continue to offer opportunities like NextGenDO that connect aspiring medical students with real-world educational experiences.

About Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine (OCOM):
Located in Winter Garden, FL, OCOM is Florida’s newest college of osteopathic medicine. OCOM’s mission is to train the next generation of caring and competent physicians with a strong emphasis on innovation, compassion, and community service. OCOM is committed to advancing the field through scholarship and discovery, OCOM proudly leads initiatives that support the growth of osteopathic medicine across the country.

Media Contact:
Rachel Freeman
Director of Communications and Marketing | Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine
O: 321-222-5781
E: rfreeman@ocom.org